William Hazlitt

Definition

William Hazlitt was an influential English essayist, literary critic, and philosopher known for his passionate advocacy of Romanticism in art and literature during the early 19th century. He significantly contributed to the emergence of art criticism by focusing on personal experience and emotional response, moving away from traditional, objective analysis. Hazlitt's writings emphasized the importance of individual perception, setting the stage for future generations of critics to explore the subjective nature of art appreciation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Hazlitt's most notable works include 'The Spirit of the Age' and 'Table Talk,' where he critiqued contemporaneous writers and artists, showcasing his eloquence and depth of thought.
2. He championed the importance of personal taste and emotional connection to art, believing that genuine appreciation stemmed from individual experiences.
3. Hazlitt's writing style was characterized by its clarity, wit, and conversational tone, making complex ideas accessible to a broader audience.
4. He was a contemporary and supporter of key Romantic figures such as William Wordsworth and Samuel Taylor Coleridge, reflecting their ideals in his critiques.
5. Despite his contributions to art criticism, Hazlitt faced financial struggles throughout his life, often living in poverty while dedicating himself to his literary pursuits.

Review Questions

• How did William Hazlitt's approach to art criticism differ from traditional methods of evaluation during his time?
  • William Hazlitt's approach to art criticism marked a shift from traditional methods that prioritized objective analysis and historical context. Instead, he focused on personal experience and emotional response as essential components of understanding art. This emphasis on individual perception allowed him to engage with art on a more subjective level, influencing future critics to consider the emotional impact of artistic works.
• In what ways did Hazlitt’s support for Romanticism influence his critiques of literature and visual arts?
  • Hazlitt's support for Romanticism profoundly influenced his critiques by prioritizing themes such as emotion, nature, and individualism in literary and visual works. He celebrated artists who embodied these ideals, allowing him to connect deeply with their creations. By aligning his critiques with Romantic values, Hazlitt established a framework that encouraged audiences to appreciate art through a more personal lens rather than solely relying on technical skill or historical significance.
• Evaluate the long-term impact of William Hazlitt’s contributions to art criticism on contemporary practices in evaluating artistic works.
  • William Hazlitt's contributions to art criticism laid the groundwork for contemporary practices that prioritize subjective experience and emotional engagement with art. His belief that personal taste and feelings play crucial roles in appreciation has resonated through modern criticism, encouraging diverse interpretations based on individual perspectives. Today, many critics and audiences embrace this subjective approach, reflecting Hazlitt’s lasting influence on how we evaluate and discuss artistic works across various mediums.

Related terms

Romanticism:

An artistic and intellectual movement that emerged in the late 18th century, emphasizing emotion, nature, and individualism, often as a reaction against the Enlightenment's focus on reason.

Criticism: The practice of analyzing and evaluating artistic works, which can include literature, visual arts, and performance, often leading to broader discussions about culture and society.

Aesthetic Experience: The personal and emotional response an individual has to a work of art, which plays a crucial role in how art is perceived and valued.