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Essay / Romanticism and the neoclassical periods and their...
Today's modern architecture is inspired by the great architects of the 18th century. The architecture of this period expressed his passion for sculpture and decorative art of the neoclassical and romantic periods. Architecture, a unifying or coherent form or structure as defined in the Merriam-Webster dictionary describes the ideal construction of two major periods. (Merriam-Webster, nd) The neoclassical and romantic artistic structures composed throughout this era were wonders and beauties during this century. These two fascinating periods of architecture are found throughout the United States and inspire today's generation around the world. Although each period had its own rules and traditions, they were marvels of massive, symmetrical designs. During the Rococo period, architecture was more asymmetrical, expressed with lighter colors and involved more playful themes. The neoclassical architectural period of the mid-18th and early 19th centuries emphasized society's imagination and free will. The neoclassical period is considered the revival of the classical period. Greek and Roman origins inspired a period of freedom of thought known as the “Enlightenment” period. Artists looked to their predecessors instead of creating new ideas, they wanted to preserve the past and its traditions. The neoclassical artist considered man as an imperfect human being inspired by honor, justice and reason. The first period of romanticism between 1780 and 1830 was born in Europe. The Romantic period was a reaction to the Industrial Revolution, defined by different countries and different artistic visions. (Industrial Revolution 2013). The Romantic period also known as the "Counter-Enlightenment" was a period of expression more...... middle of paper ...... arts and offices as a new approach. The Sainte-Geneviève library was built as one of the largest cultural buildings of the 19th century using iron. It consisted of cast iron columns and iron arches. (Sainte Geneviève.2012) This new introduction sparked a movement of change in architecture. Our generation is inspired to create and bring something new to humanity and remain influenced by the architecture of such a wonderful era. The Neoclassical and Romantic periods sparked an era that produced an overflow of ideas. The works of art from these periods have proven to be one of the many great achievements that humanity witnesses today. Society strives to design and challenge our minds on how our architecture will reflect our cultures. Everywhere artists, architects and even musicians will be encouraged by the Roman and Greek influences transmitted to the world..