Book Review: “Arts and Culture, An Introduction to The Humanities”

Introduction:
“Arts And Culture, An Introduction to The Humanities” is a comprehensive textbook written by Janetta Rebold Benton and Robert DiVanni. It offers an integrated approach to understanding the world’s major civilizations and their artistic achievements, history, and cultures. The book explores various forms of art, music, literature, philosophy, history, and religion, providing readers with a holistic view of the humanities.

Overview:
The textbook provides a basic overview of different eras, allowing readers to grasp the key concepts and themes of each period [1]. It covers a wide range of topics, including the significance of artworks, their historical and social contexts, and the techniques used in their creation [2]. The authors also delve into the parts and elements of artworks, emphasizing how they contribute to the overall aesthetic experience [2].

Key Features:

1. Interdisciplinary Connections: The book highlights the connections among different art forms within a particular culture, as well as the cross-cultural influences on artistic ideals and movements [2].

2. Cultural Cross Currents: It explores how historical events, literary movements, and artistic ideals from one culture influence the arts of other cultures [2].

3. Then & Now: The authors discuss the connections between the past and present, examining various historical bridges and their impact on contemporary society [2].

Global Coverage:
“Arts And Culture” offers a comprehensive overview of civilizations from around the world. In addition to Western culture, it explores the contributions of African, Chinese, Indian, Japanese, Latin American, and Mesoamerican civilizations [2]. The book also highlights the significant role of women in the arts throughout history, showcasing the works of female writers, painters, architects, sculptors, and photographers [2].

New Edition Enhancements:
The second edition of the book includes expanded coverage of humanities from around the globe, with dedicated chapters on Islamic civilization and Byzantine civilization [2]. It also features new cultural impact sections at the end of each chapter, highlighting the influence of specific cultures on later ones [2]. The updated edition offers new topics for connections, cross currents, and then and now boxes, providing readers with fresh insights [2].

Conclusion:
“Arts And Culture, An Introduction to The Humanities” by Janetta Rebold Benton and Robert DiVanni is a valuable textbook that offers a comprehensive exploration of the humanities. It provides readers with a deeper understanding of the artistic achievements, history, and cultures of various civilizations. The book’s interdisciplinary approach, cultural connections, and global coverage make it an essential resource for students and enthusiasts of the humanities.

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Read more:

1. Arts and Culture: An Introduction to the Humanities, Combined Volume by Janetta Rebold Benton | Goodreads
2. Arts And Culture: An Introduction To The Humanities: Benton, Janetta Rebold, Diyanni, Robert: 9780131899155: Amazon.com: Books
3. Arts And Culture: An Introduction To The Humanities by Janetta Rebold Benton | Goodreads