Hallmarks of Romanticism:
* Emphasis on Emotion and Subjectivity: Romantics valued feeling and intuition over reason and logic. They explored the depths of human emotions, both joyous and melancholic.
* Individualism and the Hero: Romantics celebrated the unique spirit of the individual, often showcasing nonconformist heroes who challenged societal norms.
* Nature as Inspiration: Nature was seen as a source of beauty, power, and spiritual insight. Many Romantic works feature evocative descriptions of the natural world.
* Imagination and Fantasy: Romantics embraced the power of imagination, often incorporating fantastical elements, myths, legends, and the supernatural into their writing.
* Exoticism and the Distant: Romantics were drawn to the exotic and the distant, often exploring cultures and settings far removed from their own.
* Nationalism and Folk Culture: Romanticism often celebrated national identity and drew inspiration from folk traditions, language, and history.
What *doesn't* belong:
* Strict adherence to classical forms and rules: Romanticism actually rebelled against the strictness of neoclassical literature, favoring more flexible and expressive forms.
In other words, Romanticism valued freedom of expression, individual experience, and the power of emotions and imagination. It challenged the rigid conventions of the Enlightenment and sought to explore the richness and complexity of the human experience.