Final answer:
Expressionism was an artistic movement that originated in Germany and emphasized emotional experience over physical reality. It expanded across various arts and was prevalent during the early 20th century, particularly in Berlin. The movement eventually declined with the rise of the National Socialists who denounced it.
Step-by-step explanation:
Expressionism Movement
Expressionism was primarily a cultural and artistic movement that took root in Germany at the start of the 20th century. As an avant-garde movement, it encapsulated various forms such as art, literature, theatre, dance, film, architecture, and music.
The movement aimed to present the world from a subjective perspective, strongly emphasizing the emotional experience over physical reality. This was reflected in the use of exaggerated, distorted forms and bold colors to convey the intense emotional state of the artists.
Before World War I, Expressionism became the dominant art form in Germany, significantly influencing public life, including theater, architecture, and literature.
The growth of Expressionism was a reaction against traditional academic standards in art, and it sought to uncover the mysteries behind the external forms of the world. Unfortunately, the rise of the National Socialists (Nazis) in the 1930s, who condemned Expressionism as 'degenerate,' led to the decline of the expressionist movement.
The movement persisted during the Weimar Republic, particularly in Berlin, where it was widespread and acclaimed. However, it sadly came to an end as the Nazis grew in power and rejected all forms of Expressionism. This shift in political climate abruptly halted the expressive freedom that the movement celebrated.