The sacred cause

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This book explores Modernism and Avant-Garde movements in Central and Eastern European art around the turn of the last century, presenting a surreal and bewildering landscape. It offers a nuanced perspective on the complex avant-garde scene in Eastern Europe, featuring dark soirées, scandalous dada performances, and fervent debates among reformers. The tension between subjectivity and rationality, as well as ethnonationalism and internationalism, is highlighted. Various movements, such as Yugoslavian zenitism, Czech poetism, and Hungarian activism, emerge in enthusiastic bursts through ephemeral magazines. The narrative is fast-paced, showcasing the immense commitment and influence of strong-willed individuals. This fresh perspective positions Eastern Europe not as a passive recipient but as an active contributor to ideological discourse. The audience's remarkable tolerance before and after World War I suggests that genius was widely accepted. Key figures like Karel Teige, Ljubomir Micić, Lajos Kassák, and Jacek Malczewski championed avant-garde art while also embracing nostalgic messianism. The author posits that subjectivity served as a defense mechanism for these artists against a repressive society and the destructive socio-economic forces of their time.