Medievalism

Definition

Medievalism refers to the revival or reinterpretation of medieval culture, art, literature, and ideas, often manifesting in later periods, particularly during the 19th century. This fascination with the medieval past influenced various aspects of society, including literature, which often drew on themes of chivalry, romanticism, and nostalgia for a perceived simpler, more noble time.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Victorian poets often embraced medieval themes to explore concepts of love, honor, and the supernatural, using them as a backdrop for their own social critiques.
2. The fascination with medievalism during the Victorian era was partly a response to the rapid changes brought about by industrialization and modernization.
3. Medievalist literature often features archetypal characters such as knights and fair maidens, reflecting societal ideals and romanticized views of the past.
4. Key figures in Victorian literature who engaged with medievalism include Alfred Lord Tennyson and Christina Rossetti, both of whom incorporated medieval themes into their works.
5. The influence of medievalism can be seen in various forms of popular culture today, including fantasy literature and films that draw upon medieval settings and narratives.

Review Questions

• How did Victorian poets use medievalism to address contemporary social issues in their work?
  • Victorian poets incorporated medieval themes to comment on their own society's complexities. By drawing parallels between medieval ideals of honor and love with modern challenges, they could critique social norms and values. For example, they might depict knights as symbols of moral integrity in contrast to the perceived corruption of their own time.
• Discuss how the concept of chivalry in medievalism influenced the portrayal of gender roles in Victorian literature.
  • Chivalry played a significant role in shaping gender roles within Victorian literature, where women were often idealized as virtuous figures deserving protection by noble knights. This portrayal reinforced traditional gender norms, casting women as passive recipients of male bravery while simultaneously creating a framework for exploring more complex female identities through the lens of medieval ideals. Writers like Tennyson used these chivalric ideals to reflect on modern relationships while challenging societal expectations.
• Evaluate the impact of medievalism on the Gothic Revival movement and its reflection in Victorian art and architecture.
  • Medievalism profoundly influenced the Gothic Revival movement by inspiring architects and artists to recreate medieval styles that resonated with Romantic ideals. This revival manifested in structures like cathedrals and castles adorned with intricate designs that invoked nostalgia for a bygone era. The interplay between medieval aesthetics and Victorian sensibilities reflected broader cultural shifts as society grappled with industrial progress while yearning for connection to its historical roots.

Related terms

Romanticism:

An artistic and literary movement that emphasized emotion, individualism, and nature, often reacting against the industrial revolution and celebrating the medieval period as a source of inspiration.

Chivalry: A code of conduct associated with the medieval institution of knighthood, emphasizing ideals such as bravery, honor, and respect for women, which heavily influenced Victorian literature.

Gothic Revival:

An architectural and artistic movement in the 19th century that sought to revive Gothic styles from the medieval period, reflecting a broader cultural interest in medieval themes.