INDIAN JUGGLERS
- William Hazlitt
About the Author
William Hazlitt, born on April 10, 1778, Maidstone, Kent, Eng. And died on Sept. 18,
1830, Soho, London, English writer best known for his humanistic essays. Lacking conscious
artistry or literary pretention, his writing is noted for the brilliant intellect. William Hazlitt was an
English essayist, dramatist and literary critic, painter, social commentator, and philosopher. He is
now considered one of the greatest critics and essayists in the history of the English language.
Despite his skills as a writer and artist, Hazlitt was a difficult man to know and like over time and
many his friendships fell apart. “The Fight” is, arguably, his most famous essay; certainly, it is one
of the most famous pieces of writing not only about boxing, but about any sport.
More than other figure in English literary history, William Hazlitt (1778-1830) demolishes
the distinction between creative artist and critical commentator. He was the exemplary critic as
artist (Wilde was an admirer) and a peerless prose stylist who stands as one of the masters of the
familiar essay. Hazlitt was educated at home and at a local school. At age 13 he had the satisfaction
of seeing his writing appear in print for the first time, when the Shrewsbury Chronicle published
his letter (July 1791) condemning the riots in Birmingham over Joseph Priestley's support for the
French Revolution.
SUMMARY
In "Indian Jugglers," William Hazlitt presents a vivid and intricate portrayal of the
captivating performances of Indian street jugglers, using their art as a lens through which to explore
deeper themes of skill, culture, and the nature of performance. The essay opens with Hazlitt's keen
observation of a public performance, setting the scene with rich descriptions that evoke the vibrant
atmosphere of Indian life. He highlights the striking visual elements of the jugglers dressed in
colorful attire that reflects their cultural heritage and the way they command attention in a bustling
environment.
As Hazlitt describes the performance, he becomes enthralled by the jugglers’ remarkable
talents. He details the array of tricks they execute, including the juggling of sticks, balls, and other
props, each requiring a high level of precision and coordination. Hazlitt's admiration for their skill
is palpable; he emphasizes that these performers have honed their craft through years of dedication
and practice. He notes the incredible focus and balance required to execute these tricks flawlessly,
recognizing the physical demands of their art. This appreciation for the technical aspects of
juggling leads Hazlitt to a broader contemplation of the nature of performance itself.
One of the essay's key themes is the emotional connection that performances can create
between the artists and their audience. Hazlitt observes how spectators are drawn into the jugglers'
world, experiencing a sense of wonder and excitement that transports them beyond their everyday
lives. He captures the collective gasp of the crowd as a particularly daring trick is executed,
underscoring the communal experience of awe that such performances foster. In this way, Hazlitt
illustrates how art can momentarily transcend the mundane, offering viewers a glimpse into a realm
of magic and possibility.
As he continues to reflect on the cultural significance of the jugglers, Hazlitt contrasts their
art with the more complex entertainments of the Western world. He suggests that while modern
forms of entertainment may be more elaborate, they often lack the simplicity and directness that
characterize the jugglers’ performances. In this context, he sees the value of traditional arts, which
convey profound beauty through seemingly simple acts. Hazlitt's appreciation for the jugglers lies
not only in their technical prowess but also in their ability to connect with audiences on an
emotional level, evoking feelings that are universal and timeless.
Throughout the essay, Hazlitt engages in a philosophical exploration of illusion and reality.
He posits that the jugglers’ ability to create moments of wonder invites viewers to reflect on the
nature of perception itself. The tricks performed by the jugglers can be seen as metaphors for the
illusions that permeate everyday life. Hazlitt draws parallels between juggling and the human
experience, suggesting that just as jugglers balance multiple objects in the air, individuals must
navigate the complexities of life, managing various responsibilities and challenges. This
comparison enriches the essay, as it encourages readers to consider how art reflects deeper truths
about existence.
In examining the role of the jugglers in society, Hazlitt also highlights their historical
significance. He acknowledges that these performers are not just entertainers but are custodians of
cultural traditions that have been passed down through generations. Their art serves as a means of
preserving cultural identity, connecting contemporary audiences with the rich history of Indian
performance. In this way, Hazlitt underscores the importance of recognizing and valuing such
traditional forms of art in an increasingly modern and commercialized world.
As the essay progresses, Hazlitt’s prose becomes increasingly reflective, contemplating the
broader implications of the jugglers’ performances. He expresses a longing for the simplicity and
authenticity of their art, contrasting it with the often superficial nature of modern entertainment.
This longing is not merely nostalgic; it speaks to a deeper human desire for genuine experiences
that resonate emotionally and spiritually. Hazlitt’s reflections serve as a reminder that, in a fast-
paced world, there is immense value in the ability to pause, appreciate, and connect with the artistry
around us.
In the concluding sections, Hazlitt celebrates the jugglers as embodiments of creativity and
imagination. He asserts that their ability to inspire wonder is a vital part of the human experience,
urging readers to cultivate an appreciation for such traditional art forms. He advocates for
recognizing the importance of these performers, not only as entertainers but as artists who
contribute to the cultural tapestry of society. The essay concludes on an uplifting note, emphasizing
that the joy brought by jugglers and similar artists is a testament to the enduring power of creativity.
Overall, "Indian Jugglers" is a rich and multi-faceted exploration of performance art,
blending admiration for technical skill with profound philosophical reflections. Hazlitt’s lyrical
prose invites readers to engage with the jugglers' world, celebrating the beauty of traditional art
while encouraging a deeper understanding of its significance. Through his observations, Hazlitt
not only captures the essence of Indian juggling but also reflects on the universal themes of art,
culture, and the human experience. The essay stands as a tribute to the enduring allure of
performance and the vital role it plays in connecting people across time and space.
THEMES
Skill and Mastery:
One of the central themes is the incredible skill and dedication required to perform
juggling. Hazlitt emphasizes that these jugglers have honed their craft through years of practice,
showcasing a high level of precision and coordination. This theme underscores the importance of
discipline and hard work in achieving mastery in any art form, encouraging readers to appreciate
the technical prowess that often goes unnoticed in performance art.
Cultural Heritage:
Hazlitt highlights the cultural significance of the jugglers’ performances, portraying them
as custodians of a rich tradition that connects contemporary audiences to historical roots. This
theme emphasizes the value of preserving cultural identity through art, inviting readers to
recognize the importance of traditional forms of expression in a rapidly modernizing world. The
jugglers embody the cultural narratives and practices that have been passed down through
generations.
Illusion vs. Reality:
The theme of illusion versus reality permeates the essay, as Hazlitt reflects on how juggling
creates moments of wonder that challenge perceptions. He draws parallels between the jugglers'
tricks and the illusions present in everyday life, suggesting that both involve a delicate balance of
reality and artifice. This theme encourages readers to contemplate the nature of perception, inviting
them to consider how art can reveal deeper truths about existence.
Emotional Connection:
Hazlitt explores the emotional bond formed between the performers and their audience. He
illustrates how the jugglers evoke feelings of awe and excitement, transforming ordinary moments
into extraordinary experiences. This theme underscores the power of art to transcend the mundane,
highlighting its capacity to create shared moments of joy and connection among diverse
individuals.
Simplicity and Authenticity:
In contrast to the complexities of modern entertainment, Hazlitt praises the simplicity and
authenticity of the jugglers’ art. He argues that their performances convey profound beauty through
straightforward acts, encouraging a re-evaluation of what constitutes meaningful entertainment.
This theme advocates for an appreciation of genuine experiences that resonate emotionally and
spiritually, pushing back against the often-superficial nature of contemporary culture.
Philosophical Reflection:
The essay invites readers to engage in philosophical contemplation about the nature of art
and existence. Hazlitt reflects on how juggling can be seen as a metaphor for navigating life's
complexities, where individuals must manage multiple responsibilities. This theme enriches the
narrative, prompting deeper thinking about how art reflects and influences our understanding of
life.
Transcendence of Art:
Hazlitt highlights the transcendent quality of the jugglers’ performances, suggesting that
art has the power to lift people out of their daily routines. Through the spectacle of juggling,
audiences experience a sense of wonder that transcends time and place. This theme reinforces the
idea that art can foster connections among people, creating shared experiences that are both
timeless and universal.
