Individuality and Subjectivity: Romantics emphasized the importance of the individual experience and the power of personal emotion. They believed that the individual was capable of profound insight and understanding, and that art should be a reflection of that inner life.
Nature and the Sublime: Nature was seen as a source of inspiration, beauty, and spiritual renewal. Romantics often explored themes of nature's grandeur, the power of the sublime (feelings of awe and terror), and the human connection to the natural world.
Imagination and Creativity: Imagination was considered a vital faculty, capable of transcending the limitations of reason and logic. Romantics celebrated the power of imagination to create new realities, explore the mysteries of the universe, and inspire human progress.
Emotion and Intuition: Romantics believed that emotions were central to human experience and often prioritized them over reason. Intuition and instinct were valued as sources of knowledge and inspiration, and they saw reason as a limited tool for understanding the complexities of life.
Social Justice and Reform: Many Romantics were deeply concerned with social injustices and the need for reform. They often wrote about poverty, inequality, and the plight of the working class. Some, like William Blake and Percy Shelley, were deeply critical of the established social order and advocated for revolutionary change.
The Power of Language: Romantics recognized the power of language to evoke emotions, create meaning, and shape human understanding. They often experimented with language and form, breaking away from traditional literary conventions.
The Supernatural and the Mystical: Romantics were drawn to the supernatural, the mysterious, and the mystical. They explored themes of the uncanny, the gothic, and the occult, seeking to tap into the hidden depths of the human psyche.
Freedom and Rebellion: Romantics often celebrated individual freedom and challenged the constraints of tradition and authority. They frequently wrote about rebellion against tyranny, the quest for self-discovery, and the pursuit of personal fulfillment.
These are just a few of the main concerns of Romantic literary circles in the early 19th century. Their works explored a wide range of themes and ideas, reflecting the changing world around them and pushing the boundaries of artistic expression.