SYMBOLIST MANIFESTO Meaning and
Definition
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The Symbolist Manifesto refers to a written declaration that outlines the principles and ideals of Symbolism, an influential artistic and literary movement that emerged in the late 19th century. This manifesto served as a guiding document for the Symbolist movement, solidifying its purpose and goals.
The Symbolist Manifesto, typically composed by an influential artist or writer associated with Symbolism, encompasses the fundamental beliefs and practices of Symbolists. Symbolism emphasized the power of symbols and metaphors as vehicles for expressing deeper emotions, ideas, and truths that are often inaccessible through direct representation. Symbolist artists sought to convey a subjective and highly imaginative experience, prioritizing individuality and spiritual exploration over the confines of objective reality.
The Symbolist Manifesto aimed to challenge and break away from the dominant artistic styles of the time, such as Realism and Naturalism, which focused on depicting the physical world as accurately and objectively as possible. By elevating symbolism and abstraction, Symbolists aimed to stimulate the viewer or reader's imagination and evoke a transcendental response.
This manifesto played a crucial role in establishing Symbolism as a distinct movement, inspiring artists and writers to adopt its principles and techniques. Through the Symbolist Manifesto, Symbolists aimed to forge a new artistic path that moved away from the conventional and embraced the mysteries and complexities of the human psyche, fostering a deeply spiritual and introspective approach to art and literature.
Etymology of SYMBOLIST MANIFESTO
The word "symbolist manifesto" is a combination of two terms: "symbolist" and "manifesto".
The term "symbolist" originates from the French movement known as Symbolism, which emerged in the late 19th century as a reaction against the dominant Naturalism and Realism movements. Symbolism sought to explore subjective and symbolic representations of the world, focusing on spiritual and abstract concepts rather than literal interpretations. The French poet Jean Moréas is credited with coining the term "symbolism" in his 1886 manifesto, "Le Symbolisme".
The term "manifesto" comes from the Latin word "manifestum", which means "clear" or "evident". A manifesto is a public declaration, often written and published, that outlines the principles, beliefs, or intentions of a particular individual, group, or movement. It serves as a statement of purpose or a call to action.
