Age of Anxiety

What are some characteristics of the Age of Anxiety?

Major changes such as increased nationalism, mass politics, suffrage, and the emergence of a welfare state.

What does La Belle Époque refer to?

A period in European history characterized by cultural flourishing and stability, generally recognized before the onset of World War I.

What does Fin de Siècle mean?

Refers to the end of the 19th century, highlighting the cultural and psychological changes occurring during this time.

What societal changes contributed to feelings of anxiety from 1815 to 1871?

Increase in nationalism, suffrage, literacy, and establishment of mass society.

Which scientist is known for the theory of relativity?

Albert Einstein.

What did Sigmund Freud's Iceberg Theory propose?

Human behavior is influenced by the unconscious mind, represented by three components: Id, Ego, and Superego.

What does Nietzsche's phrase 'God is dead' imply?

It suggests that traditional values and moral frameworks have lost their power in modern society.

What is the significance of the Dreyfus Affair in France?

It highlighted issues of anti-Semitism and the struggles of the Third Republic in balancing power away from the Catholic Church and aristocracy.

What was the effect of the October Manifesto in Russia?

It failed to provide liberals with adequate political representation, reinforcing Nicholas II's autocratic rule.

What philosophical movements were prominent during the Age of Anxiety?

Existentialism, nihilism, and the rejection of rationalism.

What characterized the political landscape of Europe in the early 1900s?

Political breakdown and radicalization, with movements for socialism and self-determination affecting various nations.

What were the main themes of modernism during the Age of Anxiety?

Materialism, urbanization, growth of democracy, socialism, and a faith in science.

How did the understanding of 'reality' change in the Age of Anxiety?

Reality was perceived as chaotic and relative, contrasting with the orderly and rational worldview of the past.

What did Bergson mean by 'Revolt against Reason'?

A belief that rational and scientific thought could not fully explain truth or reality.

What was the purpose of feminist movements during the late 19th century?

To advocate for women's rights and address their role in an evolving society.

What was the response of socialist movements to industrialization in Russia?

They grew in popularity and became revolutionary, often facing violent repression.

What impact did the Second Industrial Revolution have on societal structures?

It triggered urbanization, increased migration, and changes in labor dynamics.

How did liberalism evolve between 1815 and 1890?

It shifted from advocating for less government to supporting more government involvement in reforms.

What is existentialism?

A philosophical movement emphasizing individual existence, freedom, and choice in a seemingly indifferent universe.

What role did nationalism play during the Age of Anxiety?

Nationalism fueled political movements and conflicts, shaping identities and leading to widespread demands for self-determination.

How did urbanization affect society in the Age of Anxiety?

Urbanization led to significant changes in lifestyle, economic structures, and social relationships, contributing to the rise of modern urban society.

What is nihilism?

A philosophical doctrine that suggests the absence of meaning or value in life, often associated with extreme skepticism.

How did the technological advancements during the Second Industrial Revolution change daily life?

They improved communication, transportation, and production processes, leading to increased efficiency and the rise of consumer culture.

What was the significance of the Suffragette movement in the late 19th century?

It was crucial in advocating for women's voting rights and greater participation in political processes.

What were the impacts of World War I on the Age of Anxiety?

It intensified feelings of disillusionment and prompted reflections on the futility of war, leading to further existential and artistic movements.

What is modernism in literature?

A literary movement characterized by a break from traditional forms and a focus on stream-of-consciousness, fragmentation, and new narrative techniques.

What were the challenges faced by the Third Republic in France?

It struggled with political instability, social divisions, and the challenge of establishing a coherent national identity.

What is the significance of Freud's psychoanalysis?

It revolutionized the understanding of the human psyche and introduced therapeutic methods for addressing psychological issues.

How did art movements reflect the themes of the Age of Anxiety?

They often emphasized abstraction, fragmentation, and the exploration of the subconscious as reactions to the tumultuous social context.