Decorum

Definition

Decorum refers to the appropriate behavior, speech, and conduct expected in a given situation, particularly in art and literature. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining a proper tone and style that aligns with the subject matter, characters, and audience. In the context of Neo-classical influences, decorum serves as a guiding principle for writers and artists to create works that reflect moral values and societal norms, ensuring that their expressions are suitable and relatable to their audience.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Decorum was a fundamental aspect of Neo-classical literature, guiding authors in how characters should behave according to their social status and roles.
2. In Neo-classical art, decorum dictated that subjects depicted should align with moral teachings and societal ideals, reinforcing cultural values.
3. The emphasis on decorum led to the creation of specific genres where certain behaviors and themes were expected, such as tragedy requiring elevated language and serious subjects.
4. Decorum served as a tool for critique, as deviations from appropriate behavior by characters could reflect moral failings or societal issues.
5. Classical works were often cited as models for decorum, influencing later writers to adhere to these established standards of propriety in their own creations.

Review Questions

• How does decorum influence character development in Neo-classical literature?
  • Decorum shapes character development by dictating how characters should act based on their social roles and situations. Writers focused on creating believable interactions that aligned with societal norms, ensuring characters reflected the values of their time. This adherence to decorum helped maintain consistency in characterization, making stories more relatable to audiences who understood these behavioral expectations.
• In what ways did the concept of decorum affect the themes presented in Neo-classical art?
  • The concept of decorum significantly influenced the themes in Neo-classical art by ensuring that subjects were portrayed in ways that aligned with moral and ethical standards. Artists aimed to depict scenes that not only showcased beauty but also conveyed important messages about virtue and societal values. This connection between decorum and thematic expression helped establish art as a vehicle for teaching and reinforcing cultural ideals.
• Evaluate the role of decorum in shaping public perception of art and literature during the Neo-classical period.
  • During the Neo-classical period, decorum played a crucial role in shaping public perception by setting expectations for what constituted 'good' art and literature. Works that adhered to decorum were viewed as sophisticated and morally instructive, while those that deviated risked being dismissed or criticized. This relationship between decorum and public perception created a framework where artists and writers felt compelled to align their work with accepted social standards, which ultimately influenced artistic trends and literary movements well into the future.

Related terms

Unity: A principle in art and literature that emphasizes coherence and harmony within a work, ensuring all elements contribute to a central theme or idea.

Elegance: The quality of being graceful and stylish in appearance or manner, often considered essential in the creation of literary and artistic works during the Neo-classical period.

Mimesis: A concept in art and literature that refers to the imitation of reality, highlighting the importance of representing life accurately while adhering to social expectations.