Best of the Spectator
Book Club: Sue Prideaux
Oct 16, 2024
Sue Prideaux, a prize-winning biographer known for her captivating works on Nietzsche and Munch, explores the intriguing life of Paul Gauguin in her latest book. She reveals Gauguin's unexpected stint as an investment banker and his unique marriage. The discussion dives into his transformation from banker to artist, the challenges he faced in Paris, and his later life in Tahiti, where he championed anticolonial activism. Notably, she shares why she begins with an analysis of his decayed teeth, shedding light on Gauguin’s health and legacy.
41:30
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Quick takeaways
- The discovery of Gauguin's teeth challenges misconceptions about his health and relationships, prompting a reassessment of his legacy in art and morality.
- Gauguin's dual role as an artist and an anticolonial activist highlights the complex interplay of creativity and political advocacy in his life.
Deep dives
The Discovery of Gauguin's Teeth
The excavation of Paul Gauguin's teeth on the island of Hiva Oa serves as a pivotal moment in understanding his life and myth. During this process, heavily decayed teeth were found in a jar in a well, which led to scientific analysis that debunked the claim that Gauguin had syphilis. This finding prompted a reassessment of Gauguin's motivations and actions, especially in light of how society views his relationships with underage girls. The discovery of the teeth acts as a metaphorical starting point for a broader exploration of Gauguin's legacy and the misconceptions surrounding it.
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