Rousseau and Romanticism

Irving Babbitt

Sep. 2022 · DigiCat

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In 'Rousseau and Romanticism' by Irving Babbitt, the author delves into the influence of Jean-Jacques Rousseau on the Romantic movement. Babbitt's scholarly analysis dissects Rousseau's philosophy and its impact on the Romantic poets and thinkers of the 19th century. With a keen eye for detail and a thorough understanding of both Rousseau's works and the Romantic movement, Babbitt unravels the complexities of their intertwined ideologies. His well-researched and thought-provoking arguments provide valuable insights into the intellectual landscape of the time. Babbitt's writing style is academic yet engaging, making this book a compelling read for anyone interested in the connections between philosophy and literature. Irving Babbitt, known for his contributions to the study of literature and civilization, brings his expertise to bear in 'Rousseau and Romanticism'. As a prominent literary critic and scholar, Babbitt's exploration of Rousseau's legacy sheds light on the intellectual foundations of Romanticism. This book is highly recommended for readers seeking a deeper understanding of the philosophical underpinnings of the Romantic movement and its enduring influence on Western thought.

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Irving Babbitt (1865–1933) was a renowned American academic and literary critic whose ideas significantly shaped the development of New Humanism in the early 20th century. Babbitt, a professor at Harvard University, was an outspoken critic of Romanticism and a proponent of classical standards in education and the arts. His scholarly rigor and dedication to high cultural ideals made him a towering figure in the conservative intellectual circles of his time. One of Babbitt's most influential works, 'Rousseau and Romanticism' (1919), is a seminal critique in which he assesses the impact of Jean-Jacques Rousseau's ideas on the cultural and moral landscape of modern society. Babbitt contends that Romanticism, as derived from Rousseau's thought, championed unchecked imagination and emotions at the expense of reason and tradition, leading to cultural decay. Babbitt's literary style is characterized by incisive analysis, extensive erudition, and a profound understanding of both Eastern and Western philosophical traditions. Through his writings, he sought not only to analyze literature and culture but also to provide a framework for the betterment of society through the reinvigoration of classical humanist values. His contributions to literary criticism and cultural commentary have left an enduring mark on the intellectual history of the United States.