Living Well with Pessimism in Nineteenth-Century France

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Exploring the rise of modern pessimism in nineteenth-century France, this work delves into its aesthetic, epistemological, ethical, and political dimensions. It highlights the shift from empirical verification to verisimilitude in discussions of pessimism, fostering a dialogue between philosophy and literature. The book examines the contrasting views of nonfiction writers and the ways novelists and poets depict characters grappling with pessimism's implications. Ultimately, it argues for the relevance of pessimism as a viable approach to living well in contemporary society.