Enlightenment vs. Neoclassicism

Attribute	Enlightenment	Neoclassicism
Time Period	17th-18th centuries	18th-19th centuries
Focus	Reason, science, individualism	Ancient Greek and Roman art, order, balance
Artistic Style	Rational, realistic, detailed	Emulation of classical art, symmetry, simplicity
Philosophical Influence	Voltaire, Rousseau, Locke	Winckelmann, David, Jefferson

Introduction

The Enlightenment and Neoclassicism were two major movements in the world of art and philosophy that emerged in the 18th century. While they shared some similarities, they also had distinct characteristics that set them apart. In this article, we will explore the attributes of Enlightenment and Neoclassicism and compare their key features.

Enlightenment

The Enlightenment was a philosophical movement that emphasized reason, science, and individualism. It emerged in the late 17th century and continued into the 18th century, primarily in Europe. Enlightenment thinkers believed in the power of human reason to understand the world and improve society. They advocated for freedom of thought, expression, and political rights. Enlightenment ideas influenced various fields, including politics, economics, and art.

One of the key characteristics of Enlightenment art was its emphasis on realism and rationality. Artists sought to depict the world as it truly was, using precise details and accurate representations. Portraits, landscapes, and historical scenes were popular subjects in Enlightenment art. Neoclassical architecture also emerged during this period, drawing inspiration from classical Greek and Roman designs.

Enlightenment literature focused on themes of reason, progress, and individualism. Writers such as Voltaire, Rousseau, and Montesquieu used their works to critique social and political institutions and advocate for reform. The Enlightenment also saw the rise of the novel as a popular literary form, with authors like Daniel Defoe and Samuel Richardson pioneering the genre.

Neoclassicism

Neoclassicism was an artistic movement that emerged in the mid-18th century as a reaction against the excesses of the Baroque and Rococo styles. Neoclassical artists looked to the art and architecture of ancient Greece and Rome for inspiration, seeking to revive the classical ideals of harmony, order, and simplicity. Neoclassicism emphasized clarity, restraint, and symmetry in its works.

Neoclassical art often depicted heroic or moralizing subjects from classical mythology, history, and literature. Artists such as Jacques-Louis David and Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres were prominent figures in the Neoclassical movement, creating grand historical paintings and portraits that celebrated virtue and patriotism. Neoclassical sculpture also flourished during this period, with artists like Antonio Canova producing elegant marble statues.

Neoclassical literature shared many of the same themes as Neoclassical art, focusing on order, reason, and moral values. Writers such as Alexander Pope, John Dryden, and Samuel Johnson sought to emulate the style and themes of classical Greek and Roman literature in their works. Neoclassical poetry often featured formal structures, clear language, and moral lessons.

Comparison

While Enlightenment and Neoclassicism shared a belief in reason and order, they differed in their approach to art and literature. Enlightenment art focused on realism and rationality, seeking to depict the world as it truly was. Neoclassical art, on the other hand, looked to the past for inspiration, drawing on classical ideals of harmony and symmetry.

Enlightenment literature emphasized individualism, progress, and social reform, using the power of reason to critique existing institutions. Neoclassical literature, on the other hand, focused on moral values, order, and clarity, seeking to emulate the style and themes of classical Greek and Roman literature.

Overall, both Enlightenment and Neoclassicism were important movements that shaped the art and philosophy of the 18th century. While they had their differences, they both sought to promote reason, order, and moral values in a world undergoing significant social and political change.