Humanities and Arts
Temple, Huygens and ‘sharawadgi’: tempering the passions to achieve tranquillity
Abstract
Sir William Temple (1628–1699), the eminent English ambassador to the Dutch Republic and a widely read essayist,1 famously used the term ‘sharawadgi’ (beauty without an apparent order)2 to describe the layout of Chinese gardens in his essay ‘Upon the Gardens of Epicurus’:Among us, the Beauty of Building and Planting is placed chiefly, in some certain Proportions, Symmetries, or Uniformities; our Walks and our Trees ranged so, as to answer one another, and at exact Distances. The Chineses scorn this way of Planting, and say a Boy that can tell an hundred, may plant Walks of Trees in strait Lines, and over against one another, and to what Length and Extent He pleases. But their greatest reach of Imagination, is employed in contriving Figures, where the Beauty shall be great, and strike the eye, but without any order or disposition of parts, that shall be commonly or easily observ’d. And though we have hardly any Notion of this sort of Beauty, yet they have a particular Word to express it; and where they find it hit their Eye at first sight, they say the Sharawadgi is fine or is admirable, or any such expression of Esteem.
Key Questions
What is the central focus of the study?
The study examines the concept of 'sharawadgi,' as discussed by William Temple, and its relationship to ideas of tranquillity and emotional balance. It also explores Christiaan Huygens' influence in shaping these ideas through a philosophical and aesthetic lens.
What is ‘sharawadgi,’ and how is it interpreted in the article?
‘Sharawadgi’ is a term associated with irregular beauty or natural asymmetry, often applied to landscape design. In the article, it is viewed as a metaphor for achieving harmony and tranquillity by embracing imperfection and natural spontaneity.
How does the study connect William Temple’s ideas to tranquillity?
William Temple argued that aesthetics and design could temper human passions, creating emotional stability. The article explores his belief that the asymmetry of 'sharawadgi' could evoke a sense of peace and balance in the human mind.
What role does Christiaan Huygens play in the study?
Huygens' contributions to ideas of order, symmetry, and motion are analyzed as complementary to Temple’s aesthetic philosophy. The study highlights Huygens’ influence on Temple’s intellectual framework, particularly in their shared focus on balance and harmony.
How is ‘sharawadgi’ relevant to aesthetics and design?
The concept underscores the value of irregular, natural forms in creating aesthetic experiences that soothe the observer. The study ties this to broader debates on landscape design, architecture, and the emotional impact of art.
What philosophical implications are discussed in the study?
The study delves into the philosophical intersections of aesthetics, ethics, and emotional regulation, arguing that embracing natural imperfection can foster both personal tranquillity and broader societal harmony.
How does the study connect aesthetics with emotional balance?
The article suggests that exposure to aesthetic environments, particularly those influenced by ‘sharawadgi,’ can temper excessive passions and promote inner peace. It positions aesthetics as a tool for emotional well-being.
What conclusions does the study draw about the importance of tranquillity?
The study concludes that tranquillity is essential for human well-being and can be cultivated through design, philosophy, and a deeper appreciation of natural irregularity, as embodied in the concept of ‘sharawadgi.’
What is the broader significance of the study?
The study offers insights into the historical interplay of aesthetics and philosophy while providing contemporary relevance by linking these ideas to emotional health, design, and sustainability.
