The Men of the Nineties

"The Men of the Nineties" by Bernard Muddiman is a window into the vibrant world of artists and writers in 1890s London, charting their rebellion against Victorian traditions. The book shines a light on key figures like Aubrey Beardsley and Oscar Wilde, revealing how French artistic ideas sparked a revolution in English art and literature. It kicks off by painting a picture of Beardsley's bold move to become an illustrator, showing the readers the beginning of this exciting artistic time. It tells the story of young artists and authors joining forces, taking cues from French impressionism, and fighting against the strict rules of the past. Muddiman's lively writing brings to life the important people, their beliefs, and the cultural atmosphere that made "the nineties" so special, arguing that it was a game-changing era for art and literature.