Question

What are the beginnings of Symbolism? What are the characteristics of Symbolism? How does Symbolism depart from previous Impressionism and Post-Impressionism styles? Use specific artwork examples to discuss your points. Symbolism started back in the 1800's from a French literary movement. It gained popularity from Jean Morea's' manifesto in Le Figaro in 1886.

a) Write a brief summary of the beginnings and characteristics of Symbolism.
b) Discuss how Symbolism differs from Impressionism and Post-Impressionism.
c) Describe the impact of Jean Morea's manifesto on the popularity of Symbolism.
d) Identify a specific artwork example that exemplifies Symbolism and explain its features.

Answer 1

Symbolism was a late 19th-century art movement characterized by metaphorical imagery and a departure from the naturalism of Impressionism. Jean Moréas' manifesto defined Symbolism's focus on idealism, spirituality, and the dream-like, greatly contributing to its popularity. Gustave Moreau's "The Apparition" exemplifies Symbolism's features.

Step-by-step explanation:

Origins and Characteristics of Symbolism

Symbolism was a late 19th-century art movement that began in France and is known for its use of metaphorical images to express emotional experiences and ideas. The term "symbolist" was first coined by critic Jean Moréas to denote the distinctiveness of this movement from the then-prevailing decadent literary and artistic movement. Influenced by Romanticism, particularly its gothic aspect, Symbolism focused on themes of spirituality, the imaginative, and the dream-like world as opposed to the observable natural world.

Comparison with Impressionism and Post-Impressionism

Impressionism and Post-Impressionism served as precursors to Symbolism, with the former emphasizing transience in light and the capture of modern life scenes, and the latter extending the use of color and light to embrace emotions and ideas. However, Symbolism departed from these by emphasizing less on the visual representation and more on depicting the unseen—suggesting subject matter rather than directly presenting it.

Jean Morea's Manifesto and its Impact

Jean Moréas' manifesto in Le Figaro significantly popularized Symbolism by defining the movement's goals and distinguishing it from the naturalist approach of Impressionism. Moréas advocated for a focus on idealism and spirituality, which resonated widely with artists looking for a means to explore more abstract themes.

Symbolism in Artwork

An example of Symbolism in art is Gustave Moreau's "The Apparition," where Salome dances before King Herod. Moreau's work is characterized by an ornate style, religious and mythological motifs, and a focus on dreams and visions—hallmarks of Symbolism that evoke the unseen and the mystical.