Symbolism Characteristics and Historical Context
El Symbolism It was an artistic and literary movement that emerged at the end of the 19th century in France, later spreading to other European countries. This movement was characterized by its rejection of Realism and Naturalism, as well as for his search for a deeper and more transcendental reality through symbols and metaphors.
Symbolist artists and writers sought to express abstract ideas and subjective emotions through the use of evocative images and language. suggestive. They believed that art should go beyond the mere representation of visible reality and delve into the inside world of the artist and the viewer.
Characteristics of Symbolism
- Subjectivity: Symbolist artists focused on the expression of emotions and personal moods, moving away from objectivity and the reliable representation of reality.
- Use of symbols: Symbols were central elements in symbolist works, used to convey abstract ideas and evoke emotions in the viewer or reader.
- Evasion of reality: The Symbolists sought to escape from everyday reality and immerse themselves in a world of dream, mystery and fantasy.
- synesthesia: The combination of different senses, such as the association of colors with sounds or emotions, was a technique frequently used by symbolist artists.
- Influence of literature: poetry and literature had a fundamental role in the development of Symbolism, with authors such as Charles Baudelaire, Paul Verlaine and Stéphane Mallarmé as prominent figures.
Historical Context of Symbolism
Symbolism emerged in a historical context marked by great social, political and cultural changes. At the end of the 19th century, Europe was experiencing a rapid process of industrialization and urbanization, which generated a feeling of alienation and disenchantment in many artists and intellectuals.
Furthermore, the advancement of science and positivism had questioned traditional and religious beliefs, generating a feeling of uncertainty and existential emptiness. The Symbolists sought refuge in art as a way to transcend material reality and find a deeper meaning to existence.
Symbolism was also influenced by philosophical currents such as idealism and the spiritualism, as well as the interest in the occultism and esoteric doctrines. Symbolist artists explored themes such as mystery, sleep, death, and nature, seeking to reveal hidden and transcendental truths.
Impact and legacy of Symbolism
Symbolism had a significant impact on the development of art and literature of the 20th century. It influenced later movements such as Surrealism and Expressionism, as well as in the work of numerous individual artists and writers.
Some of the most notable artists of Symbolism include painters such as Gustave Moreau, Odilon Redon, and Edvard Munch, as well as writers such as Maurice Maeterlinck and Oscar Wilde. His works are characterized by their dreamlike atmosphere, his use of allegories and its exploration of existential and psychological themes.
The legacy of Symbolism extends to the present day, with its emphasis on subjectivity, imagination and the search for meanings beyond apparent reality. His influence can be traced in various artistic fields, from painting and sculpture to music and cinema.
Symbolism invites us to delve into the mysteries of the human soul and explore the depths of our own psyche. His legacy endures as a testimony to art's ability to transcend reality and reveal universal truths through beauty and suggestion.