1. Romanticism

2. Romanticism
An intellectual and artistic movement that stressed strong emotion, imagination, freedom from classical correctness in art forms and rebellion against social conventions

3. It’s not about Love….
Trust me.

4. Light Side of Romanticism (yes, there is a dark side, too)
Romantics believed that emotion and intuition (knowing and sensing without using rational thought) were more important than reason and logic. {Who does that oppose?}
Romantics believed that NATURE was the source of wisdom, beauty, and truth.
Romantics showed sympathy and joys for the “COMMON” man.

5. Romantics valued the individual quest for truth rather than conforming to rules or traditions.
Romantics expressed a passionate nationalism and love of country. Although, they yearned for faraway places (they loved anything exotic)
Romantics believed in idealism (Optimism, absolute perfection).
Romantics believed that a noble and heroic way of life is possible for everyone who lives purposefully.

6. Romantics believe the real world is a reflection of an ideal world (who is that opposite of?), and life is a constant striving for the infinite (immeasurably great)
Romantics believed the city was a place of moral ambiguity, corruption, and death. While the countryside was equated with independence and straightforward moral certainty and health.
Romantics believed uncultivated, popular imagination could equal or surpass formally educated person.

7. Romantics believed one could be morally and spiritually uplifted by cultivating a greater sensitivity to feelings; empathy as a vehicle for social change.
Romantics valued simplicity, naturalism, and individualism
Romantics strived to rise above “Dull realities.”

8. Stylistic Techniques
Literature is finally fine art (what was it before?)
Details that are exotic and unfamiliar
Exaggerated details
Disregard for “True to life”-only details.
Fascination with remote time and places, legends, superstitions, adventures, fairies, and witches
Quaint, charming settings in nature
Idealized portrayals of nature

9. Romantic Hero…..not who you think
A “common” man
Possesses a love of nature
Distrusts city life
Uneasiness of women
Escapes conflict in natural world
Innocent and naïve personality
Child-like or a youth
Nostalgia for the past
Quest for truth