Overlapping cultural movements and criticism emerged around the 18th century.
Writers began labeling these movements, giving rise to numerous "isms."
Key movements include:
Neoclassicism: Emphasized classical ideals and art forms.
Romanticism: A cultural movement that explores the unknown and emotional aspects beyond reason.
Definition: A movement concerned with the experience of the unknowable aspects of existence, passions, and nature's vastness.
Not about romantic love: Differs from the Rococo movement which focuses more on romantic themes.
Reaction to the Enlightenment:
Enlightenment emphasized reason, while Romanticism embraces emotions and the irrational aspects of life.
Explores themes like:
Anger
Cruelty
Nature's vast power
The mind-boggling scale of the universe.
The Air Pump (1768):
Painting by Joseph Wright of Derby: Featuring a scientist experimenting on a bird in a glass chamber.
The tension and ethical implications of life and death are central to the scene.
Various reactions from onlookers indicate humanity's diverse responses to such power.
Analysis of character reactions in The Air Pump:
Young couple distracted by romance.
Fascinated child vs. contemplative old man:
Represents ages and perspectives on life and death issues.
Depicts a broad spectrum of psychological engagement with the painting and theme.
Represents themes of fear and psychological turmoil.
Notable elements:
The incubus: A male demon that symbolizes fear and sexuality.
Figure's expressions evoke the experience of sleep paralysis.
Controversial when unveiled, drawing both critical acclaim and criticism for style and theme.
Concept related to the awe-inspiring aspects of nature—overpowering and intimidating.
Illustrations include nature's vastness and chaotic forces, challenging the notion of humanity's control.
Inspired the idea that nature can be both beautiful and terrifying.
Emphasizes the individual's contemplation of nature's vastness and mystery.
The romantic interpretation of nature contrasts with idyllic pastoral views.
Captures the feeling of awe and philosophical reflection on the sublime.
Turner’s works often reflect historical contexts and societal changes:
The Fighting Temeraire (1838):
Symbolizes the passing of an era and the transition from sail to steam power.
Incorporates themes of nostalgia and the acceptance of change.
The Slave Ship (1840):
A significant anti-slavery work, capturing the horrors of slavery amid the sublime fury of nature.
Ambitious natural landscapes focusing on the beauty and majesty of nature:
Famous work depicting Mount Chimborazo, combining various studies into one grand composition.
Reflection of the American experience with nature and its cultural significance.
The Death of Sardanapalus (1827):
Captures the chaos and cruelty of war and the mistakes of power.
Challenges audience with its stark portrayal of violence, sexuality, and madness.
Controversial due to its execution style and dark themes, emblematic of Romantic ideals.