On Sentimentality" describes sentimentality as a space-biased mode of perception. Set in a theory of modes, it is argued that, much less than being a manifestation of emotion, sentimentality is a rational conceptualization of experience and meaning. The expression and experience of meaning is considered by tracing the relationship of time and space dimensions from the mythic and rhetorical modes which emphasize the time dimension, to the balance achieved in the formal mode, to the dominance of the space dimension in the descriptive and sentimental modes. It is suggested that where the descriptive mode analyzes the entities and conditions of the mundane world, the sentimental mode applies these rational methods of analysis to the expressive dimension of human experience. / "On Sentimentality" also proposes a perspective for understanding the significance of the sentimental phenomenon in contemporary Western culture. Bringing examples from literature, criticism and art into the discussion, this study draws connections with parallel space-biased modes, and offers a reappraisal of the value and function of criticism and tradition.

Thesis (Ph. D.)--University of Wisconsin--Madison, 1941. / Typescript. Vita. eContent provider-neutral record in process. Description based on print version record. Includes bibliographical references (leaves 465-472).

No description available.

Thesis (B.A.)--Haverford College, Dept. of English, 2007. / Includes bibliographical references.

Thesis--Ranchi University. / Includes bibliographical references (p. [505]-512).

Issued also as thesis, Munich. / Bibliography: p. 127-152.

Issued also as thesis, Munich. / Bibliography: p. 127-152.

Thesis--Ranchi University. / Includes bibliographical references (p. [505]-512).

Thesis (doctoral)--Universität, Giessen, 2006. / Includes bibliographical references (p. [317]-336).

Thesis (M. Litt.)--Cambridge University, 1931. / Typescript. eContent provider-neutral record in process. Description based on print version record.