i don't understand how Romanticism in the early 19th century have to do with Napoleon?
Romanticism embraced nationalism and thus supported Napoleon at first. Check these sites for bits of additional information.
http://www.wsu.edu/~brians/hum_303/romanticism.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Romanticism
http://web.cocc.edu/cagatucci/classes/eng109/romanticism.htm
i though romanticism went against napoleon (since he was during the Enlightenment?
Note that I said that romantics supported Napoleon at first. Please read the sites to see how they became disillusioned with him.
Romanticism in the early 19th century has a strong connection to Napoleon Bonaparte, the French military and political leader who rose to prominence during this period. To understand their relationship, let me explain:
1. Historical Context: At the turn of the 19th century, Europe was going through significant changes due to the French Revolution (1789-1799) and its aftermath. Napoleon emerged as a central figure during this time, first as a military general and later as the Emperor of the French.
2. Rise of Napoleon: Napoleon's rise to power had a profound impact on European society. He implemented a series of reforms, known as the Napoleonic Code, which aimed to modernize legal systems, remove feudalism, and foster equality. His military conquests expanded the French Empire across much of Europe.
3. Romanticism as a Response: Romanticism was an artistic and intellectual movement that emerged as a reaction to the rationalism and orderliness of the Enlightenment. It emphasized emotions, individualism, imagination, and a connection to nature. As Napoleon's rule brought about political turmoil, many artists and writers turned to Romanticism as a means to express their disillusionment and critique the perceived dehumanizing effects of industrialization and authoritarianism.
4. Portrayal of Napoleon: In literature, Napoleon was often depicted in various ways. Some Romantic writers, such as Victor Hugo, saw Napoleon as a hero, valuing his grandeur, strategic brilliance, and ambition. Others, like Lord Byron, viewed him as a flawed figure who ultimately became a tyrant. Many Romantic artists explored the themes of heroism, power, and the destructive nature of unchecked ambition through their portrayals of Napoleon.
5. Symbol of Romanticism's Ambiguity: Napoleon's complex persona and the contradictory aspects of his rule made him a fitting symbol for the ambiguities and contradictions that Romanticism sought to capture. Artists and writers often depicted him as a tragic or enigmatic figure, reflecting the dualities of Romantic thought.
Therefore, Romanticism in the early 19th century is closely linked to Napoleon due to his role as a powerful figure in European politics, his impact on society, and the way his rule influenced the artistic and intellectual climate of the time.