11.4 Romantic movement in Europe and its influence
4 min read•august 1, 2024
The Romantic movement swept across Europe in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, challenging Enlightenment ideals. It emphasized , , and , reshaping literature, art, and music across the continent.
From England to Russia, Romantic writers and artists like Wordsworth, Goethe, and Turner revolutionized creative expression. They celebrated , explored national identity, and pushed the boundaries of traditional forms and themes.
Romantic Writers and Artists in Europe
Literary Pioneers of Romanticism
Top images from around the web for Literary Pioneers of Romanticism
“All truly intelligent thoughts have already been thought” - Magazine - Goethe-Institut United ... View original
Is this image relevant?
Chapter 8: Romanticism – The Creative Spirit: 1550-Present View original
Is this image relevant?
La antigua Biblos: Baladas líricas - W. Wordsworth y S. T. Coleridge View original
Is this image relevant?
“All truly intelligent thoughts have already been thought” - Magazine - Goethe-Institut United ... View original
Is this image relevant?
Chapter 8: Romanticism – The Creative Spirit: 1550-Present View original
Is this image relevant?
1 of 3
Top images from around the web for Literary Pioneers of Romanticism
“All truly intelligent thoughts have already been thought” - Magazine - Goethe-Institut United ... View original
Is this image relevant?
Chapter 8: Romanticism – The Creative Spirit: 1550-Present View original
Is this image relevant?
La antigua Biblos: Baladas líricas - W. Wordsworth y S. T. Coleridge View original
Is this image relevant?
“All truly intelligent thoughts have already been thought” - Magazine - Goethe-Institut United ... View original
Is this image relevant?
Chapter 8: Romanticism – The Creative Spirit: 1550-Present View original
Is this image relevant?
1 of 3
- English Romantic movement emerged in late 18th century with key figures , , and
- German Romanticism pioneered by , , and emphasized emotion, nature, and supernatural themes
- French Romantic literature represented by , , and challenged classical forms and explored individualism and social justice
- Russian Romanticism embodied by poets and incorporated national folklore and historical themes
Visual and Musical Romantics
- Romantic painters , , and created works emphasizing emotion, nature, and
- Turner's "The Fighting Temeraire" captured the passing of an era through a dramatic sunset scene
- Friedrich's "Wanderer above the Sea of Fog" embodied the Romantic ideal of the individual confronting nature
- Romantic music exemplified by composers , , and expanded musical forms and emphasized personal expression
- Beethoven's Symphony No. 9 broke traditional symphonic structure by including choral elements
- Chopin's Nocturnes revolutionized piano music with their emotive and introspective qualities
Romanticism: Comparisons Across Europe
National Variations in Romantic Themes
- English Romanticism emphasized nature's power and imagination, often focusing on rural landscapes and supernatural elements (Wordsworth's "Tintern Abbey")
- German Romanticism placed greater emphasis on folklore, national identity, and the concept of the "Romantic genius" influenced by movement
- French Romanticism engaged more with political and social issues, addressing historical events (Hugo's "Les Misérables")
- Italian Romanticism focused on national unification and revival of Italian cultural heritage (Manzoni's "The Betrothed")
- Spanish Romanticism incorporated elements and explored themes of love and death (Bécquer's "Rimas")
Chronological and Cultural Distinctions
- Romantic movements' timelines differed across Europe influenced by political and social factors
- English Romanticism began earlier, around 1790s, while French Romanticism gained prominence in 1820s
- All Romantic movements shared focus on emotion and individualism, but specific themes and styles varied based on each country's cultural and historical context
- German Romantics emphasized the concept of "" (world-weariness)
- English Romantics often idealized rural life and criticized industrialization
Romanticism's Influence on Art and Literature
Impact on 19th and 20th Century Movements
- Romanticism's emphasis on emotion and individual experience directly influenced development of in late 19th-century French poetry and art (Baudelaire's "Les Fleurs du Mal")
- Romantic ideals of nature and the sublime contributed to emergence of in American landscape painting (Thomas Cole's "The Oxbow")
- Gothic elements in Romantic works laid foundation for development of Gothic fiction as distinct genre in 19th and 20th centuries (Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein")
- Romanticism's focus on artist as creative genius influenced rise of Modernism and its emphasis on individual artistic vision and experimentation (James Joyce's "Ulysses")
Thematic and Stylistic Legacies
- Romantic interest in folklore and national identity contributed to development of in literature and music throughout 19th century (Sibelius's "Finlandia")
- Romantic rejection of rationalism and embrace of irrational paved way for Surrealism and other avant-garde movements in 20th century (Salvador Dalí's paintings)
- Romanticism's emphasis on nature and environment influenced development of environmental literature and eco-criticism in 20th and 21st centuries (Rachel Carson's "Silent Spring")
Romanticism's Lasting Impact on Modern Culture
Contemporary Cultural Influences
- Romantic emphasis on individual expression and creativity shapes modern concepts of artistic and personal freedom
- Seen in the celebration of unconventional artists and thinkers (Banksy's street art)
- Romantic ideas about sublime in nature influence modern environmental movements and attitudes towards wilderness preservation (National Parks movement)
- Romantic notion of artist as visionary or outsider figure informs popular perceptions of artists and creative individuals (Van Gogh's posthumous fame)
- Romantic ideals of love and passion remain influential in contemporary popular culture, particularly in film, music, and literature (Romeo and Juliet adaptations)
Societal and Philosophical Impacts
- Romantic interest in national identity and folklore affects cultural nationalism and preservation of traditional arts and customs (UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List)
- Romantic critiques of industrialization and urbanization resonate in modern discussions about technology, progress, and quality of life (Slow Food movement)
- Romantic emphasis on emotion and intuition as sources of truth influences modern psychology and approaches to mental health and well-being (Expressive arts therapy)
Key Terms to Review (34)
Alexander Pushkin: Alexander Pushkin was a prominent Russian poet, playwright, and novelist, widely considered the father of modern Russian literature. His works are celebrated for their innovation in style and depth of emotion, reflecting the broader themes of the Romantic movement in Europe. Pushkin's writing often explored individualism, nature, and the human experience, influencing a generation of writers and poets both in Russia and beyond.
Alexandre Dumas: Alexandre Dumas was a renowned French writer known for his historical novels, particularly 'The Three Musketeers' and 'The Count of Monte Cristo'. His works epitomized the adventurous spirit and emotional depth characteristic of the Romantic movement in Europe, blending action, romance, and complex characters. Dumas's ability to weave thrilling plots with rich historical context helped shape the narrative style of the period and influenced countless writers after him.
Alphonse de Lamartine: Alphonse de Lamartine was a French poet, novelist, and politician who was a prominent figure in the Romantic movement during the 19th century. He is best known for his lyrical poetry that explored themes of nature, love, and the human condition, reflecting the ideals of Romanticism such as emotion and individualism. Lamartine's work not only influenced literature but also contributed to the cultural and political landscape of France, embodying the spirit of an era seeking emotional depth and personal expression.
Caspar David Friedrich: Caspar David Friedrich was a German Romantic painter known for his evocative landscapes that emphasized nature, emotion, and the sublime. His works often depict solitary figures amidst expansive landscapes, reflecting themes of introspection and the human connection to nature, which were pivotal in shaping the Romantic movement across Europe.
Dark romanticism: Dark romanticism is a literary subgenre that emerged in the early 19th century, characterized by its exploration of the human psyche, the grotesque, and the supernatural. It emphasizes themes of despair, horror, and the darker aspects of existence, often contrasting with the ideals of optimism found in mainstream romanticism. This subgenre frequently employs gothic elements, focusing on emotional depth and the complexities of human nature.
Emotion: Emotion refers to the complex psychological state that involves a subjective experience, physiological response, and behavioral or expressive response. In literature, emotions are crucial as they evoke feelings in readers and reflect the inner lives of characters, often driving themes and narratives. The exploration of emotion has been significant in various literary movements, especially in how it connects to personal experience and societal critique.
Eugène Delacroix: Eugène Delacroix was a prominent French painter and a leading figure of the Romantic movement in the 19th century, known for his dramatic use of color, expressive brushwork, and emotional subject matter. His works often depicted themes of freedom, passion, and individualism, which were central to the ideals of Romanticism. Delacroix's innovative approach to painting influenced generations of artists and marked a significant shift from the neoclassical style that preceded him.
Franz Schubert: Franz Schubert was an Austrian composer who lived from 1797 to 1828, known for his significant contributions to the Romantic movement in music. His work is characterized by lyrical melodies, rich harmonies, and emotional depth, reflecting the broader Romantic ideals of individual expression and connection to nature. Schubert's compositions include symphonies, chamber music, and over 600 songs, which played a crucial role in shaping the development of art song during this era.
Frédéric Chopin: Frédéric Chopin was a renowned Polish composer and virtuoso pianist of the Romantic era, known for his expressive piano compositions that embody the emotional depth and innovation characteristic of the Romantic movement in Europe. His works, rich in lyrical melodies and intricate harmonies, reflect the broader cultural shifts of his time, emphasizing individual emotion, nature, and national identity.
French Revolution: The French Revolution was a period of radical social and political upheaval in France from 1789 to 1799 that had a profound impact on the course of modern history. It marked the transition from absolute monarchy to a republic, challenging traditional hierarchies and influencing political thought across Europe, particularly during the Romantic period.
Friedrich Schiller: Friedrich Schiller was a prominent German playwright, poet, and philosopher, known for his significant contributions to the Romantic movement in Europe during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. His works emphasized themes of freedom, beauty, and the human spirit, reflecting the ideals of Romanticism, which valued emotion and individual experience over rationalism. Schiller's influence extended beyond literature to philosophy and politics, making him a key figure in shaping the cultural landscape of his time.
Gothic literature: Gothic literature is a genre that combines elements of horror, the supernatural, and romance, often set in dark, mysterious locations like castles or remote landscapes. It reflects the Romantic fascination with emotion, individualism, and nature while also exploring themes of madness, isolation, and the sublime. This genre often critiques societal norms and values through its exploration of human fear and the uncanny.
Hudson River School: The Hudson River School was an American art movement in the mid-19th century characterized by its romantic portrayal of the American landscape, especially the Hudson River Valley and surrounding areas. This movement emphasized the beauty of nature and often included themes of nationalism and a deep appreciation for the sublime aspects of the American wilderness, reflecting the broader Romantic movement that influenced various artistic expressions across Europe and America during that time.
Imagination: Imagination refers to the faculty of forming new ideas, images, or concepts that are not directly perceived through the senses. It plays a crucial role in the creative processes of poetry and art, allowing for the exploration of emotions, nature, and the human experience beyond mere reality.
Individualism: Individualism is a social and political philosophy that emphasizes the moral worth of the individual, advocating for personal freedom and self-reliance. This concept connects deeply to various cultural and literary movements, influencing how characters are portrayed and how narratives unfold, particularly during periods of societal transformation.
J.M.W. Turner: J.M.W. Turner was an English Romantic painter known for his expressive use of light and color, capturing the sublime beauty of nature and the effects of atmospheric conditions. His innovative techniques and emotional intensity made him a pivotal figure in the Romantic movement, influencing later artists and shaping the course of landscape painting.
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe: Johann Wolfgang von Goethe was a German writer and statesman, whose literary work spanned various genres including poetry, drama, and prose. He is best known for his influential contributions to the Romantic movement in Europe, particularly through his exploration of emotion, nature, and individualism, themes that resonated deeply during this transformative era.
Lord Byron: Lord Byron was an influential British poet and a leading figure of the Romantic movement, known for his passionate and rebellious themes in poetry. His works often reflect personal experiences, political ideals, and social critiques, making him a significant voice in the context of the evolving social and political landscape of his time.
Ludwig van Beethoven: Ludwig van Beethoven was a German composer and pianist, widely regarded as one of the most important figures in the history of Western classical music. His work bridged the Classical and Romantic eras, influencing countless composers and altering the course of music history. Beethoven's compositions are known for their emotional depth, innovative structures, and profound expressiveness, reflecting the ideals of the Romantic movement in Europe.
Mikhail Lermontov: Mikhail Lermontov was a prominent Russian poet, playwright, and novelist of the 19th century, often regarded as one of the most significant figures in Russian literature after Alexander Pushkin. His works reflect the deep emotions and individualism characteristic of the Romantic movement, as well as a critique of society and the human condition. Lermontov's poetry and prose capture themes of nature, fate, and existential struggle, showcasing the profound influence of Romanticism across Europe.
Nationalist movements: Nationalist movements are organized efforts by a group of people, often defined by shared cultural, ethnic, or historical characteristics, to achieve political independence or greater autonomy within a state. These movements often emerge in response to oppression or foreign control, seeking to foster a sense of identity and unity among the population, and can play a significant role in shaping modern nation-states.
Nature: Nature refers to the inherent qualities, characteristics, and elements of the natural world, often seen as a source of inspiration, beauty, and truth in literature. This concept not only encompasses the physical environment but also reflects deeper philosophical ideas about humanity's connection to the world around them, particularly in poetry and artistic expression.
New Historicism: New historicism is a literary theory that emerged in the late 20th century, emphasizing the importance of historical context in understanding literature. It posits that texts cannot be fully understood in isolation but must be examined alongside the cultural, political, and social conditions of their time. This approach seeks to uncover how historical forces shape literary works and, conversely, how literature can influence historical understanding.
Novalis: Novalis, born Georg Philipp Friedrich Freiherr von Hardenberg, was a prominent German Romantic poet and philosopher active in the late 18th century. His work embodies the ideals of the Romantic movement, focusing on themes such as nature, spirituality, and the exploration of the human soul. Novalis is best known for his lyrical poetry and the unfinished novel 'Heinrich von Ofterdingen,' which highlights the quest for knowledge and transcendence, serving as a key influence in shaping Romantic literature.
Romantic criticism: Romantic criticism is an evaluative approach to literature that emerged during the Romantic movement, emphasizing the importance of individual emotion, imagination, and nature over reason and traditional forms. This perspective values personal expression and the subjective experience of both the author and reader, shaping how literary works are interpreted. The rise of romantic criticism marked a shift away from rigid classical standards and encouraged a more emotional, intuitive approach to literature.
Samuel Taylor Coleridge: Samuel Taylor Coleridge was an English poet, literary critic, and philosopher, who was a key figure in the Romantic movement. His works, particularly his contributions to 'Lyrical Ballads' and his exploration of the supernatural, shaped the evolution of Romantic poetry and thought.
Sentimentality: Sentimentality refers to an excessive emotional response, often characterized by a focus on tender emotions and feelings that can lead to melodrama. It emerged as a significant concept during the Romantic movement, where artists and writers sought to evoke deep emotional connections with their audience. This approach often emphasized the importance of personal feelings and emotional experiences over rational thought or societal norms, making it a powerful tool for conveying the human experience.
Sturm und drang: Sturm und Drang, which translates to 'storm and stress,' was a German literary movement that emerged in the late 18th century as a reaction against the rationalism of the Enlightenment. It emphasized individual emotion, nature, and the struggles of the human spirit, laying the groundwork for the Romantic movement that followed. The movement's focus on passionate expression and the exploration of human experience profoundly influenced literature, art, and philosophy across Europe.
Symbolism: Symbolism is the use of symbols to represent ideas or qualities, allowing deeper meanings and interpretations in literature. It connects abstract concepts to tangible objects or actions, enhancing the reader's experience and understanding of the text.
The sublime: The sublime refers to an aesthetic quality that evokes a sense of awe or wonder, often through vastness, grandeur, or overwhelming beauty, pushing beyond ordinary experience into the realm of the extraordinary. It plays a significant role in shaping themes and emotions in art and literature, where it can serve to elevate human experience or highlight the limitations of human understanding.
Transcendentalism: Transcendentalism is a philosophical and literary movement that emerged in the early 19th century, emphasizing individual intuition and the inherent goodness of people and nature. It advocated for a deeper connection with nature, personal spirituality, and social reform, challenging conventional beliefs and societal norms.
Victor Hugo: Victor Hugo was a prominent French writer and poet, best known for his novels 'Les Misérables' and 'The Hunchback of Notre-Dame.' His work is a cornerstone of the Romantic literary movement, addressing themes of social justice, human rights, and the struggles of the individual against oppressive societal structures. Hugo's writing reflects the political and social upheavals of his time, making him an influential figure in both literature and activism.
Weltschmerz: Weltschmerz is a German term that translates to 'world pain' or 'world weariness.' It describes a feeling of deep sadness and melancholy stemming from the realization that the world does not align with one's ideals or expectations. This concept reflects the disillusionment and emotional turmoil that individuals experience in response to societal and existential disappointments, which were particularly prominent during the Romantic movement in Europe.
William Wordsworth: William Wordsworth was a central figure in the Romantic movement, known for his profound appreciation of nature and the human experience. His work emphasized emotional depth, a connection to the natural world, and the use of common language, which played a crucial role in shaping Romantic poetry and thought.