Emphasis on Emotion and Individuality:
* Subjectivity: Romantic writers focused on individual emotions, experiences, and perspectives. They valued personal feelings and intuition over objective truth.
* Imagination: The power of imagination and creativity was celebrated. This was seen as a vital source of knowledge and understanding.
* Nature: Nature was seen as a source of inspiration, beauty, and spiritual truth. Romantic works often featured powerful descriptions of natural landscapes.
* The Individual Hero: Romantic heroes often rebelled against societal norms, fought for personal freedom, and were guided by their emotions and passions.
Idealization and Escapism:
* The Past: Romantic writers were often drawn to medieval times, with its emphasis on chivalry, romance, and supernatural elements.
* The Exotic: Faraway lands and cultures were idealized, offering a sense of adventure and escape from the everyday.
* The Supernatural: Ghosts, spirits, and other supernatural elements were common in Romantic literature, reflecting a fascination with the unknown and the mysterious.
Social and Political Concerns:
* Nationalism: Romantic writers often expressed strong nationalistic sentiments, celebrating their country's history, culture, and language.
* Social Justice: Some Romantic writers addressed social injustices, particularly those affecting the poor and the downtrodden.
Notable Characteristics:
* Lyrical Poetry: Romantic poetry was characterized by its use of vivid imagery, emotional intensity, and personal reflection.
* Gothic Literature: A subgenre of Romanticism that emphasized the dark, mysterious, and macabre.
* Expressionism: Romantic artists aimed to capture the emotional impact of their subjects, often employing bold colors and dramatic brushstrokes.
It's important to remember that the Romantic period wasn't a monolithic movement, and there was a great diversity within it. However, these themes provide a framework for understanding the key ideas and concerns of this influential era.