What is sentimentalism


On hearing to each person there was such word, as sentimentalism. What is the meaning of the term in literature and psychology. Many people have an idea of ​​it, but very often they can not explain it.

General view

Sentimentalism from English translates as sensuality or touching. A word formed from an adjective, which means excessive tenderness in the manifestation of sympathy. A sentimental person is characterized by a strong sensitivity, it is easy to be moved.

But beyond this definition, there are others. Let’s start with the direction in the literature.

The Role of Sentimentalism in Literature

If the general meaning of this concept is known to many, then what is sentimentalism in literature? Before determining its role, it is worthwhile to find out when it appeared and what is characteristic of it.

First, sentimentalism as one of the most important directions in literature appeared at the end of the eighteenth century, when

people of the third estate began to exalt their political activity and social role. They were not equal with the aristocratic society and the clergy, and therefore expressed their position in relation to democracy.

Sentimentalism has shown a new look at human nature, where feeling is valued more than thinking. Personal instincts are pity, tenderness and goodwill. They prevail over social responsibilities.

In literature there is sincerity, sympathy for the poor. Sentimental writers criticized cruel treatment and social injustice. Unlike classicism, which was at the mercy of reason, this genre was subject to emotions, it gave people creativity the freedom to choose feelings and express their ideas.

In sentimentalism, a democratic thought is implied, implying the equality of all peoples. People keep diaries, experience, show tenderness towards each other. And in the works they describe their feelings, the sensations that they experience during some way.

The hero in a sentimental novel is a commoner. An ordinary person who is not rich in wealth or other merit.

Sentimentalism played a role in literature. It was shown the importance of equality of estates on the part of their spiritual world and the need for democracy, which was quite important at that time for Russia.


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What is sentimentalism