Dark Romanticism By: Alex Veselinovic 5/13/12

What will be covered: Introduction to Dark Romanticism The Social Conditions The Political Conditions The Religious Conditions The Artistic Conditions Famous Authors Edgar Allan Poe Poe’s Famous Works Herman Melville Melville’s Famous Works How Dark Romanticism Influences the Times

Introduction Dark Romanticism was essentially a rebellion to the Transcendentalism period. They were against optimism and happiness and focused more on sin, pain, and self- destruction.

Social Conditions Many people were opposed to the pessimistic views of Dark Romanticism. The times during the Dark Romantics were grim and dull. Dark Romanticism uses this to create it’s work.

Political Conditions Free thinking was not widely accepted in the Dark Romantic period. Also, the pessimistic theme of it frightened people. Some people did not like the pessimism and wanted to be happy.

Religious Conditions Dark Romantics were focused on the dark side of the mind and more toward the physical side of a person rather than the spiritual. The times were not very religious either.

Artistic Conditions Sin and evil were very popular themes in arts. Creatures were also influential to the culture of arts. A few examples are monsters and vampires.

Famous Authors Edgar Allan Poe Herman Melville

Edgar Allan Poe Edgar Allan Poe is the most famous example of the Dark Romantic era. His stories were very mysterious and dark.

Poe’s Famous Works His most famous works are: “The Raven” “Tell-Tale Heart” “Cask of Amontillado”

Why are these works famous? These works are very mysterious. They give a sense of fear and terror. They are very dark and grim.

Herman Melville Melville was a very famous author of this period. His books acquired a lot of attention. He soon lost his fame after he died. However, he gained it back during the “Melville Revival”. He is known as one of America’s most significant authors.

Melville’s Famous Works Melville’s most famous works are: Moby-Dick White Jacket Crarel

Why are these works famous? They are very atmospheric. They have a lot of imagery. They give a lot of detail on how life was.

How Dark Romantics influenced the Times Dark Romantics was very influential to the development of several arts. Horror is a significant example. Creatures were also emphasized during this time.

Horror This genre was populated in this period. The dark nature and pessimistic views were very important in it’s popularity. Many famous books were created. It also influenced horror and thriller movies.

Significant Works Some significant works that were influenced by Dark Romanticism are: Dracula Frankenstein

Significant Authors Some significant authors that were influenced by Dark Romanticism are: Stephen King Dram Stoker

Creatures Some creatures that were influenced by Dark Romanticism are: Vampires Werewolves Ghouls Devils

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