Frank Rosengarten Books

Exploring the life of C. L. R. James, this biography delves into his role as a pivotal figure in the quest for social change. It examines his contributions to revolutionary thought, emphasizing his influence on politics, culture, and literature. The narrative highlights James's unique perspective as a Caribbean intellectual and activist, showcasing his commitment to anti-colonialism and his vision for a just society. Through personal anecdotes and historical context, the book illustrates how James's ideas continue to resonate in contemporary discussions of social justice and equality.

Antonio Gramsci was not only one of the most original and significant communist leaders of his time but also a creative thinker whose contributions to the renewal of Marxism remain pertinent today. In The Revolutionary Marxism of Antonio Gramsci, Frank Rosengarten explores Gramsci's writings in areas as diverse as Marxist theory, the responsibilities of political leadership, and the theory and practice of literary criticism. He also discusses Gramsci's influence on the post-colonial world. Through close readings of texts ranging from Gramsci's socialist journalism in the Turin years to his prison letters and Notebooks, Rosengarten captures the full vitality of the Sardinian communist's thought and outlook on life.

Central to the book are the themes of nobility and love, which evolve alongside Leopardi's personal experiences and his broader understanding of life. It explores how these themes reflect the historical context of his time, showcasing a unique blend of classical and modern views on literature and existence. The discussions reveal Leopardi's journey towards a universal conception of life, making his insights both profound and relevant.

This book offers a comprehensive analysis of young Proust’s evolving conception of the world, from his early friendships and educational experiences in the 1880s to the turn of the twentieth century. It looks in detail at his early fictional and critical writings, his associations with various literary periodicals, and the social milieus in which he moved. Its primary purpose is to understand Proust as a worldly figure with concrete attitudes and ideas about such issues as social class, the relationship between art and society, the responsibilities of the writer, and the debate between materialism and idealism as seen in the context of mid- to late-nineteenth-century thought.