Romanticism vs Classicism

Contrasting appearances and techniques between Romanticism and Classicism are resoundingly evident in architecture.  Architecture during the Romantic era primarily takes the form of gothic style, which is very elaborate and unique.  This eye-catching style began in twelfth century France but died out soon after.  In the mid eighteenth century England, however, Gothic architecture re-emerged when artists sought an alternative to the current repetitive Classical architecture.  The gothic style prides itself on many unusual shapes such as the ribbed vault and the pointed arch, and is covered with many flying buttresses.  Furthermore, the gothic style goes against the grain and what would be considered the norms of architecture giving it its lavish and complex appearance.  Elaborate, spiralling towers and intricate windows decorate this striking form of architecture.  Gothic architecture was a very large step out of the ordinary at its time.  The Gothic movement was a way of breaking the mould of the boring and monotonous architecture that had dominated history.  Classical architecture, however, is simple and consistent.  It has stuck by sound architectural methods throughout its long history.  This architecture is very straight, formal, and easy on the eye.  Classical architectural design borrows much of its techniques from Roman and Greek buildings.  Specifically, features such as pillars and arches can be accredited back to the Roman and Greek era.  Many straight lines and other un-complex shapes give Classical architecture its plain yet elegant look.  As with Classical thinking, Classic architecture is very mainstream and conventional.

Romanticism and Classicism are two contrasting movements that have had major influential effects on human culture.  The way in which we think can even be defined as either Romantic or Classical.  Those who think rationally and logically are generally considered Classic-minded.  People who do things more impulsively, however, are more Romantic-minded.  Each philosophy offers its own unique characteristics.  Romanticism generally idealises individuals and nature emphasizing their spiritual and moral values.  It explores new concepts in life searching for what other beauties life may hold.  Additionally, Romanticism adopts alien concepts and techniques to create groundbreaking, eye-catching art.  Classicism, however, is quite the opposite and remains simple using trustworthy techniques.  The movement follows strict values evident in life and does not dwell much beyond reality.  Both beliefs have had major influences in art, within painting and architecture particularly.  Through the contrasting techniques and physical appearances, the many differences of the two movements are evident.  Through our artwork, we can learn much about the different philosophies of humanity.

Works Cited

"Romanticism -- Britannica Online Encyclopedia." Encyclopedia - Britannica Online Encyclopedia. 16 Jan. 2009 <http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/508675/Romanticism>.

"WebMuseum: Classicism." animals @ ibiblio. 16 Jan. 2009 <http://ibiblio.org/wm/paint/glo/classicism/>.

"classicism — Infoplease.com." Infoplease: Encyclopedia, Almanac, Atlas, Biographies, Dictionary, Thesaurus. Free online reference, research & homework help. — Infoplease.com. 16 Jan. 2009 <http://www.infoplease.com/ce6/ent/A0812448.html>.

"romanticism: Definition from Answers.com." Answers.com - Online Dictionary, Encyclopedia and much more. 16 Jan. 2009 <http://www.answers.com/topic/romanticism>.