HUM 305 - Humanities: Classicism and Romanticism

Between 1650 and 1850 two conflicting modes of thought influenced the humanities. Prior to 1790 the classical tradition predominated, while after 1790 the romantic came to prominence, yet neither succeeded in overwhelming the other. This course explores the impact of these two traditions on the history of the period 1650-1850, especially on art, music, literature, and philosophy. First, we will explore the underlying philosophy of these two traditions and their various means of expression. We will then observe the impact of classicism on the enlightenment and the factors which created a shift to romanticism in post-revolutionary Europe.