Abstract

Helpful and thorough as an introduction to Santayana's aesthetic theory, Ashmore's presentation is an exposition of Santayana's views; he does not judge these views or attempt to develop them further. According to Ashmore, Santayana held a single aesthetic theory all his life, the nucleus of which was contained in his early poetry. However, he developed different aspects of this theory at different stages of his life. During the first stage, Santayana emphasizes aesthetic experience. In considering this topic Ashmore discusses aesthetic value, and the psychological analysis that Santayana gives of this value. Next Santayana focuses on poetry and its criticism. Thus Ashmore examines topics such as the relation between poetry and religion, the relation between poetry and philosophy, and Santayana's formulation of a scale for judging poetry. The chapter entitled "Rational Art" presents the third major stage of Santayana's development; here Ashmore considers Santayana's construction of a theory of art. For Santayana, art, as distinct from fine art, is a rational activity in the pursuit of happiness. Ashmore concludes with a discussion of Santayana's final work, considering the additions to and modifications of his earlier views.—E. M.