American Romanticism 1800-1860

Romanticism – a definition “A school of thought that values feelings and intuition over reason” “journey away from the corruption of civilization and the limits of rational thought and toward the integrity of nature and the freedom of the imagination” (Elements of Literature)

Romanticism A “revolt against the Age of Reason” Nature is a place “in which the self can fulfill its potential” Value the individual and spiritual intuition (rather than religion) America perfect for Romanticism – the frontier! Optimism New cultures/perspectives Search for new “spiritual roots” (Harvey)

Romanticism Vs. Age of Reason Emotions The individual Solitude Nature Desire Idealistic Childhood Age of Reason Practicality Public responsibility Objective Science Repress desires Mechanical

Romanticism – literary themes The answers to life’s most puzzling questions can be found through discussions with a simple person who lives in the country close to nature—not with a sophisticated, well-educated person from the city. The answer to life’s most puzzling questions can be found through a connection with nature. The use of one’s imagination is more important than rational thought. Subjectivity is more important than objectivity. Knowledge is gained through gut reactions and subjective hunches rather than level-headed, objective, deductive thought. Nature is more important than art. Experimental trial and error is a better process than the conventional scientific method. Poetry should be spontaneous and full of emotion, not planned and straightforward. Sensitivity, feelings, and spontaneity are more important than intellectualism. “Dare to be” is a better battle-cry than “dare to know.”