Common man

Definition

The term 'common man' refers to the ordinary, everyday person, typically representing the working class or average citizen. This concept became particularly significant during the American Romantic Movement, as it emphasized individualism, emotion, and a connection to nature, contrasting with established societal norms and elitism. The common man was celebrated in literature and art as embodying genuine values and an authentic perspective.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The concept of the common man was central to the literature of the American Romantic Movement, showcasing characters that represented the struggles and virtues of ordinary life.
2. Authors like Walt Whitman and Edgar Allan Poe celebrated the common man in their works, reflecting themes of democracy and human experience.
3. The idealization of the common man often served as a critique of aristocracy and elitism, promoting social equality and a more inclusive national identity.
4. Political figures like Andrew Jackson embodied the common man ethos during his presidency, advocating for policies that benefited average citizens rather than the elite.
5. Artistic expressions during this period often depicted rural life and simple joys, reinforcing the idea that profound truths could be found in everyday experiences.

Review Questions

• How did the concept of the common man influence literary works during the American Romantic Movement?
  • The concept of the common man greatly influenced literary works during the American Romantic Movement by inspiring authors to create characters that reflected ordinary people's experiences and emotions. Writers like Walt Whitman showcased the lives of everyday individuals, highlighting their struggles, joys, and aspirations. This focus on the common man's perspective helped to democratize literature and emphasize themes of individuality and personal connection to society.
• In what ways did political leaders like Andrew Jackson promote the idea of the common man during their time in office?
  • Political leaders like Andrew Jackson promoted the idea of the common man by implementing policies that favored working-class citizens and expanded democratic participation. Jackson's presidency marked a shift towards greater political inclusion for ordinary Americans, challenging the existing power structures that benefitted only elite groups. His efforts to dismantle entrenched interests reflected a broader societal movement towards recognizing and empowering the voices of common people.
• Evaluate how the celebration of the common man in art and literature during the American Romantic Movement contributed to societal changes in America.
  • The celebration of the common man in art and literature during the American Romantic Movement contributed significantly to societal changes in America by fostering a sense of identity rooted in equality and shared experience. This focus encouraged a cultural shift away from elitism towards greater recognition of diverse voices within society. As authors and artists depicted everyday life as rich with meaning, they inspired movements for social reform that sought to uplift marginalized communities and promote a more equitable society.

Related terms

Individualism:

A social theory that emphasizes the moral worth of the individual and promotes self-reliance and personal independence.

Transcendentalism:

A philosophical movement that emerged in the early 19th century, advocating for the inherent goodness of people and nature, often highlighting the importance of personal intuition over societal conventions.

Romanticism:

An artistic and intellectual movement that arose in response to the Industrial Revolution, emphasizing emotion, nature, and the glorification of the individual.