On the Beautiful Soul

an ancient tradition for living a beautiful life

The theorists of the Beautiful Soul proposed that life is a work of art created from the cultivation of a moral character, noble spirit, and enlightened action. They dared individuals to preserve youthful ideals, to expand rational faculties, to feel deeply, to see beauty, and to experience great love. They challenged them to overcome the lethargy of intellectual immaturity, to question embedded prejudices, and to think critically for themselves. With a strong conviction in the human capacity for goodness, they believed that by improving moral, aesthetic and intellectual faculties, every individual could take part in forming a more beautiful and virtuous humanity.

On Salon Culture

a vibrant conversation space for social and intellectual exchange

A salon is a social gathering in which individuals come together to engage in the art of conversation in pursuit of knowledge and fellowship. A salonnière facilitates a shared discussion on a selected idea in the arts, sciences, culture, philosophy, or politics.

Salon culture began in 16th century Italy and blossomed in 17th and 18th century France. Salons were traditionally founded on principles of egalitarianism, fellowship, and freedom of expression. They played a critical role in the development of a democratic, debate driven public sphere and were the catalyst of important intellectual, political, and artistic movements.

The Connection

beautiful souls were cultivated within salons

Inspired by the idealism of the Beautiful Soul, the most celebrated Jewish salonnières of post-revolutionary Berlin, such as Henriette Herz and Rahel Varnhagen, strove to bring a more beautiful humanity into being. Their role as salonnières was to help others self-cultivate, becoming more enlightened, tolerant, benevolent, and rational human beings by practicing this philosophy within their salons.

Why Today?

a Renaissance of beautiful ideals

In a global culture divided by superficiality, narcissism, ignorance, and incendiary political rhetoric, cultivating a beautiful soul is no longer a priority. We have revived this tradition because we believe that improving oneself is essential for personal happiness and social prosperity.

For more information please contact: secretary@beautifulsoulsalons.com