Sturm und drang

Definition

Sturm und Drang, which translates to 'storm and stress,' was a German literary and artistic movement in the late 18th century that emphasized emotion, individualism, and a break from established norms. It emerged as a reaction against the rationalism of the Enlightenment, focusing instead on intense feelings, nature, and the exploration of human experience. The movement significantly influenced Romantic art in Germany, shaping the works of many artists and writers who sought to express deep emotional truths and the tumultuous relationship between man and the natural world.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sturm und Drang served as a precursor to Romanticism, laying the groundwork for later artistic expressions that celebrated emotion over reason.
2. Key figures of this movement included writers like Friedrich Schiller and Goethe, whose works showcased themes of rebellion, passion, and nature.
3. The movement was characterized by a focus on youth and the idealization of natural landscapes as a source of inspiration and emotional release.
4. Sturm und Drang also intersected with the concept of the 'genius,' where artists and writers were seen as individuals with unique perspectives who transcended societal norms.
5. The emotional intensity seen in Sturm und Drang influenced not only literature but also music and visual arts, leading to new styles that prioritized personal expression.

Review Questions

• How did Sturm und Drang influence the themes and styles of Romantic art in Germany?
  • Sturm und Drang greatly influenced Romantic art by emphasizing emotion, individual experience, and the beauty of nature. Artists began to explore deeper emotional expressions through their work, often depicting landscapes that evoke intense feelings or human struggles. This shift towards valuing subjective experience over rational thought became a hallmark of Romantic art, making it more personal and reflective of inner turmoil.
• Discuss how key figures like Goethe contributed to the development of the Sturm und Drang movement.
  • Goethe played a crucial role in shaping Sturm und Drang through his dramatic works and poetry, which embodied the movement's core values. His play 'The Sorrows of Young Werther' is a prime example that highlights deep emotional conflict and individual passion. By capturing these intense feelings, Goethe helped to legitimize the exploration of emotion in literature, paving the way for future Romantic thinkers and artists to follow suit.
• Evaluate the impact of Sturm und Drang on subsequent artistic movements and its relevance in understanding modern artistic expressions.
  • The impact of Sturm und Drang on subsequent artistic movements is profound, as it paved the way for Romanticism and later avant-garde styles. By prioritizing emotion over rationality, it opened up new avenues for expression that resonate with modern audiences. Understanding this movement is essential for grasping how contemporary art continues to explore themes of individuality, nature, and emotional depth, showing that the quest for genuine human experience remains relevant today.

Related terms

Romanticism: An artistic and intellectual movement that originated in the late 18th century, emphasizing emotion, individualism, and a glorification of nature.

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe: A key figure of the Sturm und Drang movement, known for his dramatic works and poetry that captured the spirit of emotional intensity and individual struggle.

Nature: A central theme in Sturm und Drang art, where it is often depicted as a powerful force that reflects human emotions and struggles.