Now in its third edition, (1st edn 1997, 2nd edn 2000) Philosophy of the Arts is distinctive edn. aesthetics textbook because it is structured largely by art-form, with a chapter each on music, poetry, architecture, painting and film - most other books in this area study the subject by theory (art as imitation/expression/significant form/etc.) or by concept (evaluation, interpretation, representation, etc.).
Review
The new edition of Philosophy of the Arts provides one of the most comprehensive and pellucid introductions to aesthetics on the market. - Andy Hamilton, Durham University
Reviews of the second edition:
…clear, comprehensive yet philosophically complex. - Matthew Kieran, University of Leeds
…accessible, wide-ranging and above all engaged. - Jerrold Levinson, University of Maryland
Gordon Graham’s book is a delight – urbane and authoritative, accessible to all. - Peter Lamarque, University of Hull
An excellent introduction to philosophical aesthetics, which also makes its own distinctive and original contribution to the subject. - Alex Neill, University of Southampton