What distinguishes Romanticism from Neoclassicism?

The distinguishing characteristic of Romanticism compared to Neoclassicism is its focus on emotion and individualism over reason. During the Romantic period, which emerged in the late 18th century, artists sought to express personal feelings and the beauty of nature, often highlighting the emotional experience of the individual. This shift marked a significant departure from the Neoclassical emphasis on rationalism, order, and adherence to classical themes and subjects, which celebrated reason and social morality.

Romanticism favored imagination, personal expression, and a connection to nature, encouraging artists to explore their innermost feelings and embrace themes such as longing, horror, and the sublime. This contrasts sharply with Neoclassicism, where the focus was more on idealized narratives and classical virtues, often represented through structured compositions and a balanced color palette.

The focus on emotion and individual experience in Romanticism allowed for a wider range of artistic interpretation, paving the way for future movements that celebrated spontaneity and subjective experience. This is why the emphasis on emotion and individualism is the key differentiator between these two influential art movements.