Sentimentalism

Definition

Sentimentalism is a literary and cultural movement that emphasizes emotion, empathy, and moral sentiment, often portraying the struggles of individuals against societal injustices. It seeks to engage readers' feelings and foster a sense of compassion through the depiction of characters' emotional experiences. This movement became particularly prominent in the works of various authors, including those during the 19th century, where themes of suffering and moral righteousness were prevalent.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sentimentalism flourished in the 19th century as a response to the harsh realities of industrialization and social injustice, encouraging readers to feel for the marginalized and oppressed.
2. Charles Dickens was a significant proponent of sentimentalism, using his novels to evoke sympathy for his characters who faced poverty, abuse, and exploitation.
3. In sentimental literature, emotional appeals often prioritize morality over realism, leading to idealized portrayals of characters and situations.
4. The movement played a crucial role in advocating for social reform, as it aimed to awaken the conscience of readers through emotional engagement with societal issues.
5. Sentimentalism laid the groundwork for later literary movements by influencing how writers approached character development and emotional depth in storytelling.

Review Questions

• How does sentimentalism manifest in Charles Dickens' works, particularly in relation to his portrayal of characters?
  • In Charles Dickens' works, sentimentalism manifests through his vivid portrayal of characters who endure hardships and sufferings, eliciting deep empathy from readers. For instance, characters like Oliver Twist and Tiny Tim embody innocence and vulnerability, which prompts readers to reflect on social injustices. Dickens skillfully uses emotional narratives to connect readers with his characters' plights, ultimately aiming to inspire compassion and a desire for social change.
• Analyze how sentimentalism contributes to themes of social justice in Dickens' novels.
  • Sentimentalism significantly contributes to themes of social justice in Dickens' novels by highlighting the struggles of the underprivileged while evoking emotional responses from the audience. By showcasing the harsh realities faced by his characters—such as poverty, child labor, and neglect—Dickens urges readers to recognize their responsibilities towards societal reform. The emotional depth embedded in his narratives not only captivates readers but also serves as a powerful call to action for addressing social injustices prevalent during his time.
• Evaluate the impact of sentimentalism on the evolution of literary forms in the context of Dickens' influence on future authors.
  • Sentimentalism has had a profound impact on the evolution of literary forms by shaping how future authors approach character development and emotional storytelling. Dickens’ ability to blend sentimentality with social critique set a precedent for later writers who sought to evoke empathy while addressing serious issues. This influence can be seen in subsequent literary movements that prioritize emotional resonance and moral engagement, showing that sentimentalism not only reflected societal concerns of its era but also paved the way for more complex narratives in modern literature.

Related terms

Melodrama: A dramatic work characterized by exaggerated emotions and clear moral distinctions, often involving sensational events that evoke strong emotional responses from the audience.

Romanticism: An artistic and literary movement that originated in the late 18th century, emphasizing individualism, emotion, nature, and the glorification of the past.

Empathy: The ability to understand and share the feelings of others, often a central theme in sentimental literature, promoting a connection between readers and characters.