Final answer:
Carlyle's and Tennyson's medievalism is marked by a critique of industrialization and modernization, utilizing medieval elements to comment on social and political issues of their time.
Step-by-step explanation:
The commonality between Carlyle's and Tennyson's medievalism largely resides in how they both looked back to the medieval era to critique the industrialization and modernization of their time. This reflection is evident in their works, where they incorporate elements of medieval culture, such as chivalry and knightly honor, themes of heroism, and the quest for truth within their poetic and historical narratives. They utilize these elements to comment on the rapid changes in society and often contrast the perceived simplicity and integrity of the medieval past with the complexities and sometimes soulless character of the industrial age.
The Romantic movement, which both Carlyle and Tennyson were part of, emphasized the profound and often idealized nature of human experiences, with a focus on individualism and emotion. This idea was opposed to the strict rationalism of the Enlightenment. In their medieval-themed works, they conjured a time where personal honor, loyalty, and a connection to the land and one's lord were seen as more authentic than the impersonal and mechanized relationships of their contemporary industrial society. By invoking these medieval themes, they comment on social and political issues of their time, suggesting a longing for values that they felt were threatened by modernity.
Therefore, while both Carlyle and Tennyson engaged with the notion of heroism and truth, their medievalism most pointedly serves as a critique to their contemporary society and the impact of industrialization, making option D the correct answer.
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