Friedrich Schlegel

Definition

Friedrich Schlegel was a German poet, critic, and philosopher known for his influential role in the development of Romanticism during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. His ideas emphasized the importance of individuality, intuition, and the connection between art and nature, making him a central figure in the Romantic movement's evolution and understanding.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Schlegel is credited with coining the term 'Romanticism' in his writings, which helped define the movement's essence.
2. His work emphasized the significance of myth and imagination as central to artistic expression, which contrasted with Enlightenment rationalism.
3. Schlegel was also known for his critical essays on literature, where he analyzed and appreciated both classical and contemporary works.
4. He contributed to the development of literary theory by proposing that art should reflect the inner truths of human experience rather than conforming to strict forms.
5. His belief in the interconnectedness of art, philosophy, and personal experience laid the groundwork for later Romantic thinkers and writers.

Review Questions

• How did Friedrich Schlegel contribute to the definition and understanding of Romanticism?
  • Friedrich Schlegel played a crucial role in defining Romanticism through his writings that emphasized emotion, individuality, and the importance of art as a reflection of inner truths. By coining the term 'Romanticism,' he helped shape how subsequent generations understood this artistic movement. Schlegel’s focus on imagination and myth also set Romanticism apart from Enlightenment rationality, making it clear that he valued intuition as essential to human experience.
• What themes did Schlegel emphasize in his critical essays on literature, and how did these themes reflect broader Romantic ideals?
  • In his critical essays, Schlegel emphasized themes such as individuality, emotional depth, and the significance of myth in literature. He believed that art should transcend rigid forms and instead connect with deeper human experiences. These themes reflect broader Romantic ideals by prioritizing personal expression and subjective experience over classical norms, ultimately paving the way for a more liberated approach to creativity.
• Evaluate Schlegel's influence on later Romantic thinkers and how his ideas might be seen in contemporary literature.
  • Friedrich Schlegel's influence on later Romantic thinkers is significant; his ideas about individuality and imagination informed various literary movements beyond his time. Writers like Novalis and Heinrich Heine built upon his thoughts regarding myth and personal experience. In contemporary literature, one can still see echoes of Schlegel's emphasis on emotional depth and character introspection, demonstrating that his vision continues to resonate with modern readers who seek authenticity in storytelling.

Related terms

Romanticism:

An artistic and intellectual movement that emphasized emotion, individualism, and nature over classical ideals, prevalent in Europe from the late 18th to the mid-19th centuries.

Novalis:

A German poet and philosopher associated with early Romanticism, known for his mystical works and belief in the transformative power of art.

Heinrich Heine: A German poet and essayist whose works reflect the themes of Romanticism while also critiquing its excesses, influencing both literature and political thought.