The main characteristic of modernism is a break with traditional forms and conventions in art, literature, architecture, and thought. Emerging in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, modernism reflects a desire to experiment with new techniques and perspectives, often in response to the rapid changes brought about by industrialization, urbanization, and the upheavals of World War I.
Key features of modernism include:
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Rejection of Tradition: Modernists sought to challenge and disrupt established norms and conventions in art and literature.
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Individual Perspective: There is a focus on the subjective experience of the individual, often exploring consciousness and inner thoughts.
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Stream of Consciousness: This narrative technique captures the flow of thoughts and feelings in a character's mind, breaking away from linear storytelling.
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Fragmentation: Modernist works often exhibit fragmented structures, disjointed timelines, and non-linear narratives, reflecting the complexities of modern life.
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Alienation and Isolation: Themes of alienation and existential despair are common, addressing the sense of disconnection felt by individuals in the modern world.
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New Media and Techniques: The use of collage, abstract forms, and mixed media in visual arts, as well as innovative literary forms like free verse in poetry.
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Exploration of the Unconscious: Many modernists were influenced by psychoanalysis, delving into the unconscious mind and its influence on behavior and experience.
Overall, modernism is characterized by an emphasis on innovation and a questioning of reality, leading to diverse expressions across various artistic and intellectual domains.