Marinetti, Manifeste du futurisme

Question 1

What are the main themes discussed in Marinetti’s “Manifeste du futurisme”?

Answer 1

The main themes include modernity, progress, equality, social justice/freedom, violence, and the relationship between art and society.

Question 2

What are Marinetti’s views on traditionalism and the cultural heritage of the past?

Answer 2

Marinetti rejects traditionalism and the cultural heritage of the past, advocating for the embrace of modernity and technology.

Question 3

According to Marinetti, what role does violence play in art and progress?

Answer 3

Marinetti believes that violence is essential in art and progress. He asserts, “Il n’y a plus de beauté que dans la lutte. Pas de chef-d’oeuvre sans un caractère agressif” (There is no beauty except in struggle. No masterpiece without aggressive character).

Question 4

How does Marinetti perceive the relationship between war and the world’s hygiene?

Answer 4

Marinetti states, “la guerre - seule hygiène du monde” (war - the only hygiene of the world). He sees war as a cleansing force for the world.

Question 5

What institutions does Marinetti advocate demolishing, and why?

Answer 5

Marinetti calls for the demolition of museums, libraries, and the fight against moralism and feminism. He sees these institutions as the graves of lost efforts, the calvaries of crucified dreams, and the registers of broken aspirations.

Question 6

Why does Marinetti believe that art can only be violence, cruelty, and injustice?

Answer 6

Marinetti contends that art can only be expressed through violence, cruelty, and injustice. He dismisses traditional art forms as the painful contortion of an artist unable to express their dream fully.