Emotion over reason

Definition

Emotion over reason refers to a philosophical and literary concept where feelings and instincts are prioritized over rational thought and logic. In literature, especially within the Gothic and Romantic movements, this idea emphasizes the depth of human experience, often exploring intense emotions like love, despair, and passion that drive characters’ actions and decisions, challenging the rationalist ideals of the Enlightenment.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Brontë novels often feature characters whose intense emotional experiences overshadow their rationality, leading to dramatic outcomes.
2. The use of Gothic elements in Brontë's work highlights how supernatural or eerie settings can amplify emotional turmoil.
3. Emotion over reason serves as a vehicle for exploring themes like love, social injustice, and personal struggle in Brontë's narratives.
4. The tension between emotion and reason reflects the broader Romantic ideals of valuing individual experience and emotional authenticity.
5. Brontë's characters frequently confront societal expectations, making their emotional responses central to their development and the plot.

Review Questions

• How do Brontë’s characters embody the concept of emotion over reason in their struggles?
  • Brontë's characters often grapple with powerful emotions that drive their actions, sometimes leading them to defy societal norms. For instance, in 'Jane Eyre,' Jane’s passionate feelings for Rochester conflict with her sense of morality and independence. This tension illustrates how emotion can compel characters to act against logical reasoning, showcasing the depths of human experience as they navigate complex situations fueled by love, despair, or longing.
• In what ways do Gothic elements enhance the theme of emotion over reason in Brontë novels?
  • Gothic elements such as eerie settings, supernatural occurrences, and psychological horror serve to heighten emotional intensity in Brontë's novels. These elements create an atmosphere where characters face not only external challenges but also their inner demons. For example, the haunting presence in 'Wuthering Heights' reflects the tumultuous emotions of its characters, demonstrating how these external manifestations align with their internal struggles, making emotion a dominant force in their lives.
• Evaluate how Brontë’s exploration of emotion over reason contributes to the critique of Victorian societal norms.
  • Brontë's exploration of emotion over reason critiques Victorian societal norms by illustrating the limitations imposed on individual expression and passion. Her characters often confront rigid social expectations that prioritize decorum over genuine feeling. By portraying characters who choose love or personal happiness despite societal pressures—like Jane Eyre’s determination to follow her heart—Brontë challenges readers to reconsider the value placed on reasoned behavior versus emotional authenticity. This critique not only highlights personal struggles but also invites broader reflections on freedom and identity within a constrained society.

Related terms

Romanticism: An artistic and intellectual movement that emphasized emotion, individualism, and nature as a reaction against the industrialization and rationalism of the Enlightenment.

Gothic literature: A genre that combines elements of horror, the supernatural, and emotional intensity, often set in dark and mysterious settings that evoke fear and suspense.

Byronic hero: A complex character archetype found in Romantic literature characterized by strong emotions, rebelliousness, and a troubled past, often embodying the theme of emotion over reason.