On the Old Road Vol. 1

On the Old Road Vol. 1 is the first volume in a collection of essays and critical writings by John Ruskin the renowned Victorian art critic social thinker and philanthropist. This compilation reflects Ruskin's profound observations on art society and morality showcasing his incisive intellect and passionate engagement with cultural issues. The volume gathers some of Ruskin's earlier essays speeches and letters emphasizing his critiques of art and architecture. He delves into the principles of beauty and the moral and social responsibilities of artists and architects blending aesthetic analysis with philosophical reflections. His arguments often advocate for a return to craftsmanship integrity and appreciation for nature which he believed were eroding in an industrializing society.