Historical Context
Originating in Europe, romanticism was a reaction to the industrial revolution. The industrial revolution was harsh and detrimental to nature. This fueled the idea of working with nature, instead of controlling it. It was a rejection of the calm and rationalism of classism. It was a revival of the “Dark” or Middle ages. Romantic thinkers appreciated the age for the spiritual depth. During the time period it was associated with liberalism and radicalism, freedom and revolution, and straying from religion completely. It also greatly influenced the growth of nationalism. They regained interest in folk culture, trying to preserve the stories of the nation. There was a religious revival within Christianity that strayed from religion straying from the orthodox norms.