The Differences Between Romanticism and Neoclassicism Essay

The Differences Between Romanticism and Neoclassicism - Essay Example This essay stresses that Neoclassicism in the arts, as the name indicates, is inclined on reverting to Hellenistic art styles characterized by symmetry; calmness and stillness; importance of social and political concerns; discipline and control; conformity and rationality. This art movement was the result of the renewed interest and the sense of giving importance to classical art. These characteristics and the definition of Romanticism and Neoclassicism classify the major differences between the two art movements. These differences substantiate that these art movements are conflicting during the time these two art styles emerged in the art scene. Neoclassicism imposes restraint and conformity while Romanticism breaks free from the constraints of tradition and promoted freedom in conveying personal views and emotions. Moreover, Neoclassicism was rearing towards the society and its concerns such as politics while Romanticism favors idiosyncrasy. According to the discussion the differences of Romanticism and Neoclassicism is evident in the works of Romantic painter Eugene Delacroix and Neoclassical painter Jean Auguste Dominique Ingres particularly their portrait of violinist Niccolo Paganini. Ingres’ depiction of Paganini shows the violinist in a very formal and stiff pose, which is very much opposite to Delacroix’s portrayal of the violinist showing Paganini while playing the violin. The striking contrasts between Ingres’ Paganini and Delacroix’s version clearly differentiates the two art styles and best represents the artworks of the two art movements. These opposing two art movements resulted from the events during that period and compelled by some prominent figures in the society and discoveries in well-known places at that time. Influences manifest in the works of artists belonging to Romanticism and Neoclassicism.