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Of Vulgarity

Written by John Ruskin

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AestheticsLibertyCriticismSocial ethics

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About this book

"Of Vulgarity" by John Ruskin is an analytical treatise written in the early 20th century, which explores the concept of vulgarity in human behavior and society. This work delves into the nature of social class distinctions, focusing on the implications of breeding and sensibility, and contrasts true gentlemanliness with vulgarity. Ruskin categorizes vulgarity as a lack of feeling and insensibility, highlighting how these traits manifest in various social classes and behaviors. In "Of Vulgarity," Ruskin argues that vulgarity arises from a chronic insensitivity and insincerity, expressing a profound moral and social critique of the time. He posits that a true gentleman is characterized by a delicate sensitivity and moral uprightness, in stark contrast to the insensibility that often defines vulgarity. Through various examples, he articulates that both the upper and lower classes have misconceptions about gentlemanliness, leading to societal discord. Ruskin uses literary references and keen observations to make a case for what constitutes true integrity and breeding, ultimately calling for an understanding that elevates the moral fabric of society.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in Of Vulgarity, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 8 hours
  • advanced
  • analytical
  • didactic
  • critical

John Ruskin's "Of Vulgarity" is an early 20th-century analytical treatise that meticulously dissects the concept of vulgarity within human behavior and societal structures. Ruskin argues that vulgarity stems from a chronic insensitivity and insincerity, contrasting it sharply with the true gentlemanliness characterized by delicate sensibility and moral integrity. The work critiques contemporary society, asserting that both upper and lower classes harbor misconceptions about what constitutes genuine breeding, leading to widespread social discord. Through keen observations and moral philosophical arguments, Ruskin advocates for an understanding of integrity that elevates the moral fabric of society, positing that true worth lies in feeling and uprightness rather than mere social status or outward show.

“Vulgarity, at its core, is a profound lack of feeling, an insensibility to beauty and truth.”

Key themes

Vulgarity vs. Gentlemanliness
This is the central theme, exploring the fundamental distinction Ruskin draws between genuine moral and aesthetic refinement (gentlemanliness) and a pervasive lack of feeling and sincerity (vulgarity). He redefines these terms, detaching them from inherited social status and grounding them in individual character and sensibility.
Social Class and Morality
Ruskin critically examines the relationship between social class and moral character, challenging the assumption that high birth or wealth inherently confers moral superiority. He argues that vulgarity can permeate all social strata, and true morality (gentlemanliness) is a personal attribute, not a class-based one. This theme critiques the hypocrisy and superficiality often found within established social hierarchies.
Insensibility and Sincerity
These two concepts form the psychological core of Ruskin's argument. Insensibility, or a lack of genuine feeling and empathy, is identified as the root cause of vulgarity. Sincerity, conversely, is presented as a vital component of true character and gentlemanliness, encompassing honesty, authenticity, and congruence between inner feeling and outward expression.

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How does Ruskin's definition of vulgarity as 'insensibility' differ from modern understandings of the term?

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