Culture and Anarchy by Matthew Arnold is a critical essay exploring the nature of culture and its role in society. Published in 1869, the work is a series of essays that discuss Arnold’s ideas about the importance of culture in achieving a balanced and harmonious society. Here, we break down the key points of Arnold’s argument in simple terms.

Introduction to Culture and Anarchy

Arnold begins by defining culture as the pursuit of perfection. For him, culture means striving to know the best that has been thought and said in the world. He contrasts this with “anarchy,” which he uses to describe the disorder and lack of direction he sees in contemporary English society. Arnold believes that a true understanding of culture can help society move beyond its current state of confusion and conflict.

The Components of Society

Arnold divides English society into three classes:

1. The Barbarians: This group includes the aristocracy. They are characterized by their elegance and good manners but are often resistant to new ideas and changes.
2. The Philistines: This is the middle class, known for their practicality, energy, and adherence to traditional values. However, Arnold criticizes them for lacking an appreciation of true culture, which he calls “sweetness and light.”
3. The Populace: This group consists of the working class. Arnold sees them as the raw and unrefined part of society, often struggling with poverty and lacking access to cultural refinement.

Culture as a Remedy

Arnold argues that culture is the solution to the problems of modern society. He believes that through culture, individuals can rise above their immediate surroundings and concerns, achieving a broader and more enlightened perspective. This cultural growth would lead to greater harmony and less conflict in society.

The Role of the Philistines

Arnold sees the Philistines, or the middle class, as the key to cultural improvement. He acknowledges their strength and influence but argues that they need to be educated and refined. By embracing culture, the Philistines can lead the way in transforming society. Arnold’s vision involves the Philistines moving away from their narrow focus on practicality and material success, towards a deeper appreciation of intellectual and artistic achievements.

The State as the Agent of Culture

Arnold believes that the State should play a crucial role in promoting culture. He argues that the State is the true representative of the nation’s collective best self. It should act as an agent of cultural development, guiding and supporting individuals in their pursuit of perfection. This involves providing education and opportunities for people to engage with the best that has been thought and said.

The Dangers of Anarchy

Throughout his essays, Arnold warns against the dangers of anarchy. By this, he means the lack of standards, direction, and coherence in society. He sees anarchy as a threat to social order and progress. Without a shared commitment to culture and intellectual growth, society risks falling into chaos and conflict. Arnold’s emphasis on culture is a call to counteract these tendencies and work towards a more stable and harmonious society.

The Concept of Hebraism and Hellenism

Arnold introduces the concepts of Hebraism and Hellenism to explain two different approaches to life and culture:

• Hebraism: This represents the moral and religious aspects of culture. It emphasizes obedience, discipline, and ethical behavior. Hebraism is about doing what is right and following moral laws.
• Hellenism: This represents the intellectual and artistic aspects of culture. It emphasizes the pursuit of knowledge, beauty, and intellectual development. Hellenism is about thinking freely and seeking truth and beauty.

Arnold argues that both Hebraism and Hellenism are important, but modern society has overly emphasized Hebraism at the expense of Hellenism. He believes that a balanced approach, incorporating both moral discipline and intellectual freedom, is essential for true cultural development.

The Ideal of Perfection

Central to Arnold’s argument is the idea of perfection. For him, culture is about striving for the best in all aspects of life. This includes intellectual, moral, and artistic excellence. Arnold’s vision of perfection is not about elitism or exclusivity. Instead, it is about making the best knowledge and achievements accessible to everyone. He believes that by pursuing perfection, individuals and society as a whole can achieve true happiness and fulfillment.

Critique of Contemporary Society

Arnold critiques the contemporary society of his time for its materialism and lack of cultural depth. He sees the middle class, in particular, as being too focused on practical success and material wealth. This, he argues, leads to a neglect of the intellectual and artistic pursuits that are essential for true cultural development. Arnold’s criticism is aimed at encouraging people to look beyond their immediate concerns and embrace a broader, more enlightened perspective.

The Influence of Culture and Anarchy

Arnold’s Culture and Anarchy has had a lasting impact on the way people think about culture and society. His ideas have influenced debates about education, social reform, and the role of the State in promoting cultural development. Arnold’s emphasis on the pursuit of perfection and the balance between Hebraism and Hellenism continues to be relevant in discussions about cultural and intellectual growth.

Culture and Anarchy is a powerful call to recognize the importance of culture in achieving a balanced and harmonious society. Matthew Arnold’s vision of culture as the pursuit of perfection, his critique of contemporary society, and his belief in the State’s role in promoting cultural development are key ideas that resonate throughout his essays. By embracing culture, Arnold believes society can move beyond its current state of confusion and conflict, achieving a greater sense of harmony and fulfillment.