The Work of Art in the Age of Mechanical Reproduction Essay Questions

What does Benjamin mean by "aura"?

According to Walter Benjamin, aura is a cult quality of art which refers to the uniqueness of art. In the past, art maintained a particular aura because of its limited audience and the absence of identical copies. Now, however, with the widespread use of mechanical reproduction, that sense of aura has disappeared and art is instead being produced for exhibition and and reproduction alone.

What is exhibition value?

Benjamin argues that art is made and received in two different planes. The first of these is called the "cult" value, meaning art made for a purpose other than viewing—statues for worship in a church, for example. Benjamin notes that this cult value of art has all but disappeared, having been replaced by exhibition value, or art made only to be viewed and put on display.

What is the ultimate goal of the essay?

Benjamin's essay is complex, nuanced, and at times difficult to follow. However, beyond simply highlighting the way that art has changed over time, Benjamin ultimately cautions his readers that these changes could mean trouble on the political front. Writing during the height of the Nazi regime in Germany, Benjamin maintains that art without aura will lead to fascist appropriation of art for political ends.