What is a common theme explored in Romantic art?

The theme of glorification of the individual and emotion is a central aspect of Romantic art. This movement, which emerged in the late 18th century, emphasized individualism, personal expression, and deep emotional experiences. Artists sought to depict the human experience in a way that showcased their inner feelings and the sublime aspects of nature. They often focused on subjects that evoked strong emotions, such as the grandeur of nature, the power of the human spirit, and the complexity of human emotions.

Romantic artists frequently rejected the rationalism and order that characterized the previous Neoclassical period, opting instead for works that expressed feelings, imagination, and a connection to nature. This emphasis on emotion and individual experience set the foundation for many later artistic movements and contributed significantly to various forms of literature and music as well.

While other themes such as the beauty of the industrial age and simplicity of rural life may appear relevant, they don't encapsulate the profound focus on individual emotion and personal experience that defines Romanticism as strongly as the glorification of the individual and emotion does. Similarly, the struggle against nature, while present in some Romantic works, serves more as a vehicle for expressing human struggles rather than the central theme.