Classicism is health, romanticisim is sickness.
What’s the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: The quote “Classicism is health, romanticism is sickness” contrasts two distinct artistic and philosophical movements: Classicism and Romanticism. To understand this quote, we need to delve into what each movement represents and how they reflect on the human condition.
Classicism, which flourished in ancient Greece and Rome and later in the Renaissance, is characterized by its emphasis on reason, order, and harmony. It seeks balance and clarity, often drawing on ideals of beauty and proportion found in nature and human anatomy. Classicism values restraint, stability, and the pursuit of universal truths. This approach is likened to health because it represents a state of equilibrium and well-being. Just as good health is associated with balance and proper functioning, Classicism is seen as a representation of a well-ordered and rational approach to art and life. It mirrors the ideals of physical and mental well-being, where everything has its place and purpose, leading to a sense of inner peace and stability.
On the other hand, Romanticism, which emerged in the late 18th century, embraces emotion, imagination, and individualism. It often explores themes of nature’s raw power, personal turmoil, and the sublime. Romanticism can be seen as a response to the constraints and rationality of Classicism, focusing instead on the intense and sometimes chaotic aspects of human experience. It values passion and the exploration of the depths of human emotion, which can be both exhilarating and overwhelming. This is why Romanticism is described as “sickness” in the quote. It represents a departure from the stability and order of Classicism, diving into the complexities and extremes of emotional and psychological experiences. Just as sickness disrupts the body’s natural balance, Romanticism disrupts the harmony of Classicism by prioritizing emotional turbulence and individual expression over societal norms and rational structure.
In essence, the quote suggests that Classicism embodies a state of mental and artistic health through its emphasis on balance and reason, while Romanticism, with its focus on emotional excess and individual turmoil, reflects a kind of creative and existential “sickness.” This perspective underscores how these two movements approach the human experience differently, with Classicism seeking to maintain order and Romanticism embracing the chaos of human emotion and imagination.
Who said the quote?
The quote “Classicism is health, romanticisim is sickness.” is often attributed to Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (Quotes). Johann Wolfgang von Goethe was a prolific German writer and philosopher known for his influential works, including “Faust” and “The Sorrows of Young Werther.”
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an impact-driven creator at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 life goals around the globe. Tal's journey and recent book, The Art of Fully Living, inspired him to found Elevate Society.
