The Beautiful: An Introduction To Psychological Aesthetics

Vernon Lee, the pseudonym of Violet Paget (1856-1935), stands among the notable British intellectuals of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Lee's literary and historical works explored a wide array of subjects, including art, music, travel, and aesthetics. With an upbringing that traversed across various European landscapes, her cosmopolitan background enriched her perspectives. This is vividly reflected in her book, 'The Beautiful: An Introduction to Psychological Aesthetics' (1913), where she delves into the psychological dimensions of art and the perception of beauty. Lee's inclination towards the aesthetic movement and her scholarly approach to beauty establish her as a pivotal figure in the realm of psychological aesthetics. Her works often meld a historicist approach with philosophical thought, fostering a stylized yet analytical prose that captivates scholars and lay readers alike. Lee's contribution to Victorian literature and the realm of aesthetic criticism is substantial, and her voice remains influential through her exploration of topics such as empathy and the concept of 'Einfühlung' in the appreciation of art, aspects she pioneered that prefigure modern conceptions of empathic engagement with the arts. In addition to her scholarly texts, Vernon Lee also authored supernatural fiction, which further reflects her diverse literary craftsmanship.