IAR+222_S23_M1_L2_Romanticism

Course Overview

  • Course Title: IAR 222 History and Theory of Design II

  • Instructor: Dr. Lucinda Kaukas Havenhand

  • Contact: lkhavenh@uncg.edu

Romanticism in Europe and America

  • Module Focus: Expression of Romanticism in Europe and America, particularly in France and England.

  • Key Points:

    • Rise of Napoleon Bonaparte as a romantic hero post-French Revolution.

    • Development of an Imperial style of architecture and design during the Napoleonic age.

    • Transmission of Romantic ideals throughout design culture.

Historical Context

  • Time Period: Late 18th to early 19th century.

  • Superpowers: England and France viewed as dominant powers.

  • Economic Landscape: Wealth from trade and colonization.

  • Political Climate: Enhancements in questioning the power of monarchies and the Catholic Church leading to revolutions:

    • American Revolution (1776)

    • French Revolution (1789)

    • Civil War in America and later, Russia (early 20th century).

The Enlightenment

  • Key Philosopher: Immanuel Kant (1724-1804)

    • Advocated for freedom and the public use of reason.

    • Famous Quote: "Dare to know. Have the courage to think for yourselves."

  • Core Concepts:

    • Knowledge and education should be accessible to all.

    • Opposition to dogmas and restrictive systems that limit freedom.

    • Emphasis on rationality, self-expression, and science.

    • Motto: "Knowledge is Power."

Philosophical Influences

  • Jeremy Bentham: Advocate for utilitarianism.

    • "Greatest happiness of the greatest number" concept reflected in Declaration of Independence.

    • Desired posthumous recognition through preservation of his body.

Revolutionary Movements

  • American & French Revolution: Allies promoting similar ideals.

  • French Revolution: Storming of the Bastille in 1789 marked the start of revolutionary changes.

Characteristics of Romanticism

  • Definition: A movement emphasizing emotion, individualism, heroism, glorification of the past, and nature.

  • Key Artwork: "Last Day of Pompeii" showcasing the movement's themes.

Aesthetics and Beauty

  • Edmund Burke: Published "A Philosophical Enquiry into the Origin of Our Ideas of the Sublime and Beautiful" in 1757.

  • Sublime vs. Beauty: Exploration of differing categories that evoke emotional responses.

The Picturesque and Landscape Gardens

  • Concept: The use of English landscape gardens as a reflection of picturesque aesthetics.

Elements of Romantic Art

  • Key Characteristics: Dramatic scenes, nature in extremes, dark imagery aimed at provoking emotional responses.

  • Example: Frederick Edwin Church's "Cotopaxi" highlighting the power of nature.

The Sublime

  • Burke's treatise identifies categories of sublime that inspire horror and deep emotional reactions.

  • Pop culture examples include literature such as Frankenstein by Mary Shelley.

Social Context and Culture

  • Romantic Period: Romanticizing historical narratives, heroes, and exotic settings, promoting beauty and the sublime.

  • Popular Culture: Discussion prompts for students about personal experiences that align with the romantic and sublime themes.

Characteristics of Romantic Design

  • Josephine Bonaparte: Influential in retaining and promoting the Empire Style in France.

    • Examples of motifs in furniture and design influenced by Roman and military themes.

  • Furniture Design: Innovations in furniture like the Recamier sofa, adapting Roman styles.

  • American Empire: Adoption of Neoclassical designs, highlighted by Duncan Phyfe's furniture style.

Architectural Styles

  • Greek Revival: Characterized by simplicity and Doric order; represents democratic ideals.

  • Neo-Gothic: Strawberry Hill, a significant Gothic Revival structure in Europe.

  • Royal Pavilion in Brighton: Example of eclectic design blending Near Eastern and Asian influences.

Influence of Exotic Motifs

  • Introduction of exotic motifs from Napoleon's campaigns in Near East and Egypt, influencing design.

Course Attendance and Engagement

  • Question for Discussion: Reflect on a personal experience of the romantic and sublime using Burke’s description of emotional experience.