Noble Savage

Definition

The Noble Savage is a concept that describes an idealized version of indigenous peoples who are perceived as uncorrupted by civilization, embodying natural goodness and simplicity. This idea emerged during the Enlightenment, emphasizing a contrast between the perceived moral decay of European society and the virtuous qualities of those living in a more 'natural' state, which was often romanticized.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The concept of the Noble Savage played a significant role in shaping European perceptions of non-European societies during the 18th century, often portraying them as more moral than their European counterparts.
2. It provided a critique of contemporary European society by contrasting the virtues of primitive life with the vices associated with civilization, such as greed and corruption.
3. The idea was utilized by various Enlightenment thinkers to advocate for social reforms and challenge established norms regarding civilization and progress.
4. The portrayal of indigenous peoples as Noble Savages often simplified complex cultures and realities, leading to a romanticized but distorted understanding of their lives.
5. As colonial expansion occurred, the notion of the Noble Savage both justified imperialist attitudes and criticized them by promoting an idealized image of indigenous cultures.

Review Questions

• How did the concept of the Noble Savage challenge existing views of civilization during the 18th century?
  • The concept of the Noble Savage challenged existing views by presenting an idealized image of indigenous peoples as pure and virtuous in contrast to what was seen as the corrupt nature of civilized society. Enlightenment thinkers like Rousseau argued that while civilization brought advancements, it also led to moral decay and social inequalities. By highlighting this dichotomy, advocates for the Noble Savage used it as a critique to encourage social reform and question the very foundations of contemporary European society.
• In what ways did Romanticism utilize the idea of the Noble Savage to influence art and literature?
  • Romanticism embraced the concept of the Noble Savage to evoke strong emotions and portray nature's beauty in art and literature. Artists and writers depicted indigenous peoples as embodiments of innocence and wisdom, often set against the backdrop of industrializing Europe. This romanticization allowed for a celebration of natural life while critiquing modernity's impact on humanity, emphasizing themes like longing for simplicity and connection to nature.
• Evaluate how the idea of the Noble Savage affected European colonial attitudes toward indigenous populations in both positive and negative ways.
  • The idea of the Noble Savage had a complex impact on European colonial attitudes. On one hand, it fostered admiration for indigenous cultures as noble and pure, which sometimes led to calls for better treatment and respect for their ways of life. On the other hand, it also served to justify colonialism by suggesting that these 'uncivilized' peoples needed guidance from European powers. This duality created a paternalistic view that often disregarded the complexities of indigenous societies while simultaneously romanticizing their existence.

Related terms

Romanticism:

An artistic and intellectual movement that emphasized emotion, nature, and the glorification of the past, often portraying the Noble Savage as a symbol of purity and innocence.

Jean-Jacques Rousseau:

An influential philosopher who championed the idea of the Noble Savage, arguing that humans are born good but are corrupted by society.

Enlightenment:

A cultural and intellectual movement in the 17th and 18th centuries that emphasized reason, science, and individualism, influencing views on human nature and society.