Neoclassicism

Definition

Neoclassicism is a cultural and artistic movement that emerged in the late 17th and 18th centuries, characterized by a revival of classical antiquity's styles, themes, and principles. This movement emphasized reason, order, and discipline while drawing inspiration from the works of ancient Greece and Rome, impacting various forms of literature and arts including poetry and drama.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Neoclassicism sought to emulate the simplicity and clarity of classical works while rejecting the complexities of Baroque and Romantic styles.
2. It was heavily influenced by Enlightenment ideals, promoting reason over emotion and valuing rational thought as a guiding principle in art and literature.
3. Prominent neoclassical writers, such as Alexander Pope and John Dryden, emphasized structured forms and adherence to established rules of poetic composition.
4. The movement often focused on universal themes and moral lessons, reflecting the belief that art should serve to instruct as well as entertain.
5. Neoclassicism laid the groundwork for subsequent literary movements by establishing standards for poetic form and critical evaluation that would influence later generations.

Review Questions

• How did neoclassicism draw from Aristotelian principles in its approach to literature and poetry?
  • Neoclassicism was significantly influenced by Aristotelian principles outlined in 'Poetics,' which emphasized unity, character development, and moral purpose in storytelling. Neoclassical writers sought to create works that adhered to these classical structures, focusing on clear organization and rationality. This connection showcases how neoclassicism revived classical ideas to promote a disciplined approach to literature that mirrored Aristotle's advocacy for art as a reflection of reality.
• In what ways did Lucan's 'Pharsalia' reflect neoclassical ideals while also evolving the epic poetry genre?
  • Lucan's 'Pharsalia' exemplifies neoclassical ideals through its structured narrative and exploration of moral themes central to human experience. While it adhered to classical forms reminiscent of Homeric epics, it also introduced innovative elements such as a focus on historical events rather than mythology. This blending highlights how neoclassicism allowed for evolution within the epic genre, emphasizing reasoned discourse over traditional heroic narratives.
• Evaluate the impact of neoclassicism on contemporary adaptations of classical themes and forms in literature.
  • Neoclassicism has had a lasting impact on contemporary literature by establishing a framework for engaging with classical themes in modern contexts. Contemporary adaptations often revisit neoclassical ideals such as reason, moral clarity, and structured form while integrating modern sensibilities. This interplay allows today's writers to reinterpret classical narratives in ways that resonate with current audiences, showcasing the enduring relevance of neoclassical principles across generations.

Related terms

Aristotelian Poetics:

A foundational text by Aristotle that outlines the principles of dramatic theory, emphasizing the importance of unity, character development, and the moral purpose of literature.

Epic Poetry: A long narrative poem that recounts the adventures of heroic figures, often reflecting the values and ideals of a particular culture.

Iambic Pentameter:

A metrical line used in traditional English poetry consisting of five feet, each foot containing an unstressed syllable followed by a stressed syllable.