Christina Rossetti and the Pre-Raphaelites

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to Christina Rossetti and the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood.

Christina Rossetti

A 19th century English poet known for her deeply religious and sensuous poetry.

Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood (PRB)

A group of English painters, writers, and art critics founded in 1848, focused on a return to nature and medieval art.

Odd Women

A term used by critic Jerome McGann to describe Christina Rossetti, highlighting her unique position in 19th century England.

Art for Art's Sake

An aesthetic philosophy embraced by the Pre-Raphaelites, emphasizing the value of art independent of moral or social themes.

Goblin Market

A poem by Christina Rossetti that has been interpreted in various ways, including themes of temptation and female independence.

Anglo-Catholic movement

A movement within the Church of England that Christina Rossetti became involved with, focusing on the sacramental aspect of faith.

Arts and Crafts Movement

A movement reacting against industrialization, emphasizing handcrafted goods and traditional craftsmanship.

Temptation in Goblin Market

A common interpretation of the poem, suggesting it explores the struggles women face against societal seductions.

Critics' interpretations of Goblin Market

Includes readings on temptation, rape, incest, Victorian market values, female independence, and queer themes.

Vivid imagery

A characteristic of Pre-Raphaelite works, emphasizing detailed and almost photographic representations in art and literature.

What is the significance of Christina Rossetti's involvement in the Anglo-Catholic movement in relation to her poetry?

Her involvement reflects a deep engagement with sacramental theology that informs her themes of redemption and spiritual longing.

How does the art philosophy of 'Art for Art's Sake' relate to the themes presented in Rossetti's work?

Rossetti's poetry often challenges the tenets of 'Art for Art's Sake' by intertwining aesthetic beauty with moral and social commentary.

In what ways does 'Goblin Market' reflect Victorian attitudes towards gender and sexuality?

The poem critiques Victorian constraints on female behavior while simultaneously exploring themes of sexual agency and empowerment through the lens of female friendship.

How do critiques of 'Goblin Market' shed light on Victorian economic practices and their implications for women?

The varied interpretations of the poem highlight the intersections of economic exploitation and female autonomy, reflecting the societal pressures women faced in a commodified world.

What are the main phases of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood's development?

The Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood evolved through several phases: formation (1848), mature works (1850s), and later years (1860s onwards), reflecting shifts in artistic focus and societal context.

What characterized the initial phase of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood's artistic output?

In the initial phase, the Brotherhood aimed to return to nature, embracing vivid colors and detailed naturalism, influenced by medieval art.

How did the social and political climate of the 19th century influence the evolving phases of the Pre-Raphaelites?

The Brotherhood's phases were affected by industrialization, sociopolitical movements, and evolving attitudes towards art, leading to a shift from romantic themes to critiques of society.

What role did literature play in the later phases of the Pre-Raphaelite movement?

In their later phases, the Pre-Raphaelites increasingly integrated literary themes and symbolism into their works, often drawing from poetry and classic literature for inspiration.

How did the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood's aesthetic philosophy change over time?

Their aesthetic philosophy evolved from initial idealism about art’s role in society to embracing broader themes of social critique, spirituality, and gender dynamics in their later works.

What influences helped shape the artistic principles of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood?

The Pre-Raphaelites were influenced by medieval art, literature, and the ideals of the Romantic movement, emphasizing a return to nature, bright colors, and detailed realism.

How did the Industrial Revolution impact the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood's philosophy?

The Industrial Revolution prompted the Brotherhood to critique industrialization's dehumanizing effects, leading them to champion handcrafted art and traditional craftsmanship.

What literary influences can be seen in the works of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood?

Their works were often influenced by classic literature and poetry, particularly the writings of John Keats, Dante Gabriel Rossetti's own poetry, and the themes of love and nature found in medieval texts.

In what ways did the Pre-Raphaelites influence subsequent art movements?

The Pre-Raphaelites paved the way for the Symbolist movement and the Arts and Crafts movement, emphasizing the importance of personal expression and craftsmanship in art.

How did the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood challenge the artistic conventions of their time?

They rejected the traditional academic standards of art, prioritizing individual expression, detailed realism, and a focus on themes of beauty, nature, and spirituality.