Love for Words — romanticism

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October 11, 2014
___ Romanticism refers to the state of being romantic, and to an artistic movement.

Romanticism: the quality

“Romanticism” = “-ism” + “romantic”

Let’s first look at -ism. Definitions via Websters New World College dictionary include:
—the condition of being
and
—action, conduct, or qualities characteristic of

Now, let’s look at romantic. Definitions via Meriam Webster.com include:
—marked by the imaginative or emotional appeal of what is heroic, adventurous, remote, mysterious, or idealized

So, “romanticism” is the condition of, or the conduct of, being romantic.

Romanticism: the movement

“Romanticism” is an artistic and intellectual movement that began in Europe and spread throughout the Americas. It started in late 18th century and lasted well into mid-19th century.

According to New Webster’s Universal Encyclopedia (1987):
—“Romanticism constituted a reaction against the unquestioned authority of reason and tradition … and an affirmation of faith in man’s innate powers of creativity.”

The characteristic attitudes of “Romanticism”, according to Encyclopedia Britannica (Britannica.com):
— “… deepened appreciation of the beauties of nature; a general exaltation of emotion over reason and of the senses over intellect; a turning in upon the self and a heightened examination of human personality and its moods and mental potentialities.”

Writers and artists who partook include Keats, Wordsworth, Goethe, Delacroix and Beethoven.

Usage examples:
— Epic movies appeal to our sense of romanticism, as they involve a hero, hardship, and a love story.
— Victor Hugo, author of Les Miserables, was active in the Romanticism movement.

What inpires your sense of romanticism?

___________

This Jacquée T. Writer in Residence featured Word is brought to you by A Romantic’s Perspective(.com)

*** Jacquée T. selects and schedules each featured Word in the spirit of writing, reading, and of improved expression. “Love for Words” sponsors support her schedule and selection as a whole, and the and fun spirit of this series. Please check out links to sponsor web sites, one link provided per word, and see how they may add quality to your day.

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