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Light Romanticism. 1800-1860. Big Ideas of Romanticism. source: Skipp , Francis in American Literature. Key Characteristics. Prefers natural over artificial State of nature rather than civilization Truth comes from imagination and beauty Feeling over reason/logic
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Light Romanticism 1800-1860
Big Ideas of Romanticism source: Skipp, Francis in American Literature
Key Characteristics • Prefers natural over artificial • State of nature rather than civilization • Truth comes from imagination and beauty • Feeling over reason/logic • Poetry = highest form of expression • Champion individual freedom • Innocence and experiencevalued over formal education • Optimistic view of world • Linked to uncharted frontier
Influences • Western expansion • Opportunity for growth, promise • Immigration • Bringing new cultures and perspectives • Urbanization • Escapism • Search for spiritual roots
Romantic Hero • Young or youthful • At odds with society • Not interested in authority • Nonconformist • Self-centered • Feels intensely • Character of extremes • Seeks beauty or perfection Source The Deerslayer N. C. Wyeth
LegacyLasting Effects of American Romanticism • Humanitarian reform • Abolitionism • Feminism • Liberal religious movements • Unitarianism • Universalism • Economic experiments • Communal living (Brook Farm, New Harmony) James D. Hart, The Oxford Companion to American Literature, 6th ed. (572).