The Shock of the New Summary & Key Insights

Robert Hughes' "The Shock of the New" isn't a narrative with a plot and characters in the traditional sense. Instead, it's a sweeping, chronological survey of 20th-century modern and postmodern art, exploring the revolutionary shifts in aesthetic sensibilities and the societal contexts that shaped them. Hughes acts as the guide, a learned and opinionated narrator, leading the reader through a whirlwind tour of artistic movements.

The book doesn't feature protagonists or antagonists in a fictional sense, but rather showcases pivotal artists whose work dramatically altered the art world. These include figures like Picasso, Duchamp, Kandinsky, Mondrian, Warhol, and Pollock, each representing distinct artistic styles and philosophies. Hughes analyzes their individual contributions, placing them within the larger context of historical events, political upheavals, and technological advancements.

The overarching theme revolves around the titular "shock of the new" – the continuous disruption and reinvention of artistic norms throughout the 20th century. Hughes traces the evolution from the fragmented, expressive forms of Cubism and Fauvism, fueled by the disillusionment of World War I, to the emotionally charged Abstract Expressionism of the post-war era, reflecting the anxieties and uncertainties of that period. He then examines the subsequent rise of Pop Art, Minimalism, and Conceptual Art, demonstrating how art reacted to and engaged with consumerism, mass media, and the increasingly complex nature of society.

The book emphasizes the interplay between art and its social and historical setting. Hughes meticulously details the socio-political conditions that influenced artistic production, highlighting the impact of war, revolution, technological progress, and shifting cultural values. He explores how artists reacted to these changes, using their work to challenge conventional aesthetics, explore new forms of expression, and question the very nature of art itself.

A central argument is the inherent subjectivity and relativity of artistic judgment. Hughes acknowledges the inevitable biases in art criticism, acknowledging his own perspectives while striving for a balanced and insightful analysis. He doesn't shy away from expressing strong opinions, praising certain artists and movements while criticizing others, making the book engaging and thought-provoking rather than a purely objective account.

In essence, "The Shock of the New" is a comprehensive, albeit subjective, journey through the turbulent landscape of 20th-century art. It isn't a simple chronicle of styles, but rather an exploration of the profound transformations in artistic vision and the ongoing dialogue between art, society, and the ever-evolving concept of modernity.