draft research essay on Let's take a look at the Romantic Period (late 18th to early 19th centuries) and examine how societal values of the time are present in the works we've read.
Introduction
The Romantic Period, spanning from the late 18th to the early 19th centuries, was a time of significant cultural and intellectual change. This period was marked by a rejection of the rationalism and order of the Enlightenment era, and instead embraced the ideals of emotion, individualism, and nature. In this essay, we will explore how the societal values of the Romantic Period are present in the works we have read.
Individualism
One of the key societal values of the Romantic Period was individualism, the belief in the importance of the individual and their unique experiences and perspectives. This emphasis on individuality can be seen in many of the works from this time period, including Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein" and William Wordsworth's poetry.
In "Frankenstein," the character of Victor Frankenstein embodies the Romantic ideal of individualism. He is a brilliant scientist who is determined to push the boundaries of human knowledge, despite the potential consequences. Victor's pursuit of knowledge and ambition to create life on his own terms reflect the Romantic emphasis on individual freedom and autonomy.
Similarly, in Wordsworth's poetry, we see a celebration of individual experience and emotion. In poems like "Lines Composed a Few Miles above Tintern Abbey," Wordsworth reflects on his own personal experiences in nature and how they have shaped his identity. The poem is a meditation on the power of individual memory and perception, and how it can shape our understanding of the world around us.
Nature
Another key societal value of the Romantic Period was a deep reverence for nature and the natural world. This emphasis on nature can be seen in works such as Samuel Taylor Coleridge's "Kubla Khan" and John Keats's poetry.
In "Kubla Khan," Coleridge describes a fantastical landscape of gardens and rivers, highlighting the power and beauty of the natural world. The poem emphasizes the transcendent quality of nature and its ability to inspire awe and wonder in the human soul.
Similarly, in Keats's poetry, we see a profound connection to the natural world and its ability to evoke deep emotions and insights. In poems like "Ode to a Nightingale," Keats reflects on the fleeting beauty of nature and the profound sense of longing and melancholy it can evoke. The poem is a meditation on the transient nature of human existence and the enduring power of nature to evoke profound emotional responses.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the societal values of the Romantic Period, including individualism and a reverence for nature, are present in many of the works we have read. These values are reflected in the themes, characters, and settings of these works, and serve to capture the spirit of a time marked by a deep sense of introspection, emotion, and wonder. Through the exploration of these values in the literature of the Romantic Period, we can gain a deeper understanding of the cultural and intellectual currents that shaped this pivotal era in Western history.