Valéry, La crise de l’esprit Flashcards
What are the main themes of Valéry’s “La crise de l’esprit”?
The main themes include modernism, progress, identity, Europe, violence, and conceptions of history. The essay reflects on the intellectual state of Europe after the collective trauma of World War I.
According to Valéry, how does he define modernity?
Valéry defines modernity as a “mode of existence,” not just a synonym for the contemporary. It goes beyond being a mere descriptor for the present time.
How does Valéry contrast the idea of modernity and progress with the disorder and horror of war?
Valéry contrasts the idea of modernity and progress with the disorder and horror of war, highlighting the disarray in the geopolitical situation as connected to the “disorder of our mental Europe.”
What challenges does Valéry identify in defining the intellectual state of Europe in 1914?
Valéry finds it difficult to define the intellectual state of Europe in 1914, suggesting that it may have reached the limit of its modernism. The collapse of the idea of a superior, modern, and progressive European intellect is noted.
How does Valéry describe the intellectual crisis of Europe in the context of Hamlet?
Valéry likens the intellectual crisis of Europe to the indecision of Hamlet. Europe must confront its intellectual crisis, the ghosts of its contradictory ideas, similar to the ghosts of Hamlet’s slain father.
What does Valéry suggest about the transition from war to peace in the essay?
Valéry discusses the difficulty of transitioning from war to peace, highlighting that it is more challenging to navigate than the passage from peace to war.
