* Emphasis on Reason: The Enlightenment period, which preceded Romanticism, emphasized reason and logic as the primary tools for understanding the world. Romantic poets often embraced emotion, intuition, and the power of the imagination, which some Enlightenment thinkers saw as irrational and unreliable.
* Rejection of Idealism: Romantics were often drawn to idealistic themes of love, beauty, and nature. Some critics argued that these themes were unrealistic and impractical, and that they lacked the intellectual rigor and analytical clarity that they valued.
* Focus on Individual Experience: Romantics focused on individual emotions and experiences, which some saw as self-indulgent and lacking in universal relevance. They preferred a more objective and detached approach to literature.
* Dislike for Emotional Excess: Romantic poetry is known for its passionate and expressive language. Some critics found this emotional excess to be excessive and lacking in restraint, preferring a more controlled and intellectual style.
However, it's important to note that:
* Many Rationalists Appreciated Romantic Poetry: Even those who emphasized reason and logic found beauty and value in Romantic poetry.
* Romanticism Evolved: Romanticism itself was a diverse movement, and not all Romantic poets shared the same views. Some, like William Wordsworth, incorporated elements of reason and rationality into their work.
In conclusion, the rejection of Romantic poetry by some "rational" people was based on a combination of factors, including:
* A preference for logic and reason over emotion and imagination.
* Disagreement with the focus on individual experience and subjective emotion.
* A belief that Romantic poetry lacked intellectual rigor and analytical clarity.
However, it's essential to remember that this was not a universal rejection, and many "rational" individuals found value and beauty in Romantic poetry.