AMERICAN RENAISSANCE Meaning and
Definition
-
American Renaissance refers to a period in American literature and scholarship that occurred during the mid-19th century, specifically between 1830 and 1865. It is often regarded as a period of intellectual and cultural rebirth in the United States. This movement emerged as a response to the rapidly changing social, political, and economic landscape of the nation, as well as a reaction against the perceived decline in artistic and intellectual achievements during this time.
The American Renaissance was marked by a surge of creativity and a renewed interest in exploring national identity and culture. Writers and thinkers during this period embraced the themes of individualism, democracy, and transcendentalism. Prominent figures of this movement included Ralph Waldo Emerson, Henry David Thoreau, Walt Whitman, Nathaniel Hawthorne, and Herman Melville, among others.
Literary works during the American Renaissance often reflected the nation's search for a distinctive literary voice, highlighting uniquely American traditions, landscapes, and ideals. Authors of this era experimented with new styles and forms, incorporating elements of realism, romanticism, and symbolism within their writings. Notably, the American Renaissance witnessed the emergence of several influential literary movements, such as Transcendentalism and the Dark Romanticism of Hawthorne.
Beyond literature, the American Renaissance also had a significant impact on other artistic domains, including painting, architecture, and music. This period saw the rise of notable American artists, architects, and composers who sought to capture the essence of the nation's growing cultural maturity.
In summary, the American Renaissance was a vibrant and transformative period of intellectual and artistic growth in the United States, characterized by a revival of nationalistic sentiments and a deep exploration of the American experience.
Etymology of AMERICAN RENAISSANCE
The term "American Renaissance" is primarily used to refer to a period in American literature and cultural history that occurred in the mid-19th century. It originated from the writers and critics of that time who deemed the era as a rebirth or flowering of American literature and arts, much like the original Renaissance in Europe.
The word "Renaissance" itself comes from the French word "renaistre", meaning "to be reborn". It carries the concept of a revival or renewed interest in art, literature, and learning following a period of decline or stagnation. The European Renaissance was a historical period spanning from the 14th to the 17th century and is regarded as a significant cultural and intellectual movement.
In the context of American literature, the term "American Renaissance" was popularized by the literary scholar F.O.
