Romanticism's colossus

Author: Yao Zhonghua
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2000-01-01
Features: Classicism and Romanticism are two creative tendencies that run through the entire history of human art. Classicism is rigorous, normative, orderly, rational, balanced, harmonious, static, and also has a social characteristic. Romanticism is free, unrestrained, improvisational, passionate,, dynamic, and also personal. These two categories are opposed to and struggle with each other, yet they also complement and permeate each other. Their traces can be seen in the history of Chinese and foreign literature and art. They are only more vividly expressed in 19th-century France. Generally speaking, official art representing ruling forces tends to favor the forms of classicism. While classicism, represented by Ingres, was at its height, Romanticism, represented by Delacroix, also rose rapidly, representing the spirit of the people since the French Revolution. Due to its prominent individual characteristics, the latter has had a deeper influence on modern art.