Exoticism

Definition

Exoticism refers to a fascination with and representation of cultures, places, and customs perceived as foreign or unusual. In music, especially during the Late Romantic period, composers utilized exoticism to evoke feelings of adventure, mystery, and wonder through musical elements that imitated or referenced non-Western traditions. This trend not only enriched the musical landscape but also reflected broader cultural movements that sought to engage with the ‘other’ in artistic expressions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Composers like Bizet and Rimsky-Korsakov are notable for their use of exotic themes, drawing inspiration from cultures such as Spanish and Russian folk traditions.
2. Exoticism in music often involved using specific scales, rhythms, and instrumentation that were associated with non-Western music to create a sense of authenticity.
3. The fascination with exoticism was partly driven by the expansion of empires and increased exposure to diverse cultures during the 19th century.
4. Many composers used exoticism as a way to escape the norms of Western classical traditions, allowing for more creative freedom in their compositions.
5. Critics have pointed out that while exoticism can celebrate cultural diversity, it often simplifies or misrepresents the complexities of the cultures being portrayed.

Review Questions

• How did composers utilize exoticism in their works during the Late Romantic period?
  • Composers during the Late Romantic period used exoticism by incorporating musical elements from non-Western cultures into their compositions. They would often employ unique scales, rhythms, and instrumentation that reflected these foreign traditions. This approach not only created a rich tapestry of sound that captured listeners' imaginations but also provided composers with an avenue to explore themes of adventure and mystery that went beyond conventional Western music.
• Discuss the relationship between exoticism and Orientalism in Late Romantic music. How did these concepts influence each other?
  • Exoticism and Orientalism are closely related concepts in Late Romantic music, with exoticism often embodying the fascination with Eastern cultures portrayed through Orientalist lenses. While exoticism seeks to evoke wonderment about foreign lands and customs, Orientalism tends to romanticize and stereotype these cultures based on Western perspectives. This interplay influenced composers to create works that both celebrated foreignness while simultaneously perpetuating colonial attitudes, resulting in a complex portrayal of the ‘other’ in their music.
• Evaluate the impact of nationalism on the use of exoticism in music during the Late Romantic period. What were some contradictions that emerged?
  • Nationalism significantly impacted how exoticism was used in music during the Late Romantic period, as composers often drew from their own cultural heritage while simultaneously incorporating elements from perceived 'exotic' sources. This blending created a rich dialogue between national identity and foreign influences. However, contradictions emerged as composers sought to promote their cultural pride through folk themes while borrowing from external sources that might dilute or misrepresent their national identity. This tension highlights the complexities artists faced when navigating cultural representation during this era.

Related terms

Orientalism:

Orientalism is the representation of Eastern cultures in Western art and literature, often characterized by stereotypes and romanticized views that reflect the West's colonial attitudes.

Nationalism: Nationalism in music involves composers drawing on their own country's folk music and traditions to create a sense of national identity and pride, sometimes contrasting with exotic influences.

Romanticism:

Romanticism was an artistic movement that emphasized emotion, individualism, and the glorification of nature, often leading to an interest in the exotic and the supernatural in music.