What Does Romance Really Mean?

Definition of Romanticism in Literature

Romanticism is one of the intellectual movements that shaped numerous literary and artistic works, including novels, poems, paintings, music, architecture, and criticism. It emerged in the late 18th century and flourished until the mid-19th century. Unlike classical thought, which emphasized calmness, reason, and balance, romanticism prioritized emotion over intellect, elevated moral ideals, and valued spontaneity in feeling and expression. This movement arose as a reaction against Enlightenment ideals and the materialistic mindset of the 18th century.^[1]

Characteristics of the Romantic Movement

The romantic movement stood out through several distinctive features that set it apart from classical traditions. These include:^[2]

• A focus on emotion, imagination, and authenticity.
• An emphasis on personal expression, individual feelings, and exploration of inner worlds rather than scientific facts.
• A spiritual connection with nature, viewing it not as a subject for scientific study but as a living force created by the divine.
• Concern for society’s marginalized and oppressed individuals, such as the poor and beggars.
• Interest in the poet’s unique perspective, particularly regarding religious and political views.

Romanticism in Arabic Literature

Arabic literature and its leading figures—writers, critics, and poets—were influenced by romanticism due to their exposure to Western literature through translations, Arab missions to Europe, and the work of orientalists who promoted Western literary masterpieces such as those by Shakespeare, Schiller, Hugo, and Goethe. As a result, romanticism became a significant literary movement that transformed the traditional face of Arabic literature, especially in poetry.^[3]

Definition of Romanticism in Love

Romanticism in love refers to behaviors and emotions associated with affection and close relationships between individuals of different genders.^[4] It is linked to attraction, desire, and intense emotional attachment felt toward a beloved person. Romantic feelings are among the beautiful emotions that trigger chemical reactions in the brain, producing sensations of comfort and joy—such as the release of dopamine.^[5]

References

1. ↑ "Romanticism", www.britannica.com, Retrieved 9-4-2019. Edited.
2. ↑ "Romantic poetry", crossref-it.info, Retrieved 9-4-2019. Edited.
3. ↑ Samia Qarini, Manifestations of Romanticism in the Novel "Magdolyn Under the Shadows of the Zizophone" – A Case Study, Page 29,30. Edited.
4. ↑ "romantic", dictionary.cambridge.org, Retrieved 9-4-2019. Edited.
5. ↑ Sheri Stritof (16-9-2018), "The Phases of Romantic Love", www.verywellmind.com, Retrieved 9-4-2019. Edited.