Table of contentsEnlightenment and romanticism: a clash of idealsGoya: a romantic visionaryConclusionArt has been a powerful tool for expressing human emotions and reflecting societal values . Two important movements in art history, the Enlightenment and Romanticism, brought about distinct changes in artistic styles, themes, and approaches. The Enlightenment, characterized by reason, logic, and an emphasis on scientific progress, differed greatly from the emotional, imaginative, and often rebellious nature of Romanticism. This essay will explore the differences between Enlightenment art and Romantic art and analyze why Francisco Goya is considered a prominent Romantic painter. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”?Get the original essayEnlightenment and Romanticism: A Clash of IdealsThe Age of Enlightenment, which emerged in the 17th and 18th centuries, placed emphasis about the power of reason and the pursuit of knowledge. . Enlightenment thinkers sought to challenge traditional beliefs and superstitions through scientific research and critical thinking. Therefore, Enlightenment art often depicted subjects with rationality and order, presenting a clear and logical representation of reality. On the other hand, Romanticism emerged as a response to the Enlightenment's emphasis on reason. He valued emotion, individualism and the supernatural. Romantic artists sought to evoke strong feelings and inspire the imagination, often embracing nature and the sublime. Unlike Enlightenment art, which aimed to depict the world as it is, Romantic art aimed to capture the world as it could be, embracing fantasy and the mysterious. One of the main differences between Enlightenment art and Romantic art is their depiction of human experience. Enlightenment art celebrated the achievements of humanity's intellectual and scientific progress. Artists of this period often depicted scenes of scientific discovery, industrialization, and societal progress. In contrast, Romantic art focused on the inner emotions of the individual, exploring themes of love, passion, and melancholy. Goya: a romantic visionary Francisco Goya, Spanish painter and engraver, is considered one of the most significant figures of romanticism. Goya's works reflect the emotional intensity, imagination and rebellion characteristic of the Romantic movement. One of the reasons why Goya is considered a romantic painter is his exploration of human emotions. His famous work, “May 3, 1808,” depicts the execution of Spanish rebels by French troops during the Spanish Civil War. The painting captures the horror, despair and helplessness of the victims, eliciting a strong emotional response from the viewer. Goya's ability to convey the cruelty of human suffering showcases his romantic sensibility. In addition to his exploration of emotions, Goya's use of imagination and symbolism aligns with Romantic ideals. His series of prints entitled “Los Caprichos” is an excellent example of this. In this collection, Goya depicts the follies and vices of Spanish society through imaginative and often grotesque imagery. By infusing his work with fantastical elements, Goya challenges traditional artistic conventions and embraces the imaginative aspect of Romanticism. Additionally, Goya's rebellious nature and criticism of authority further cemented his status as a Romantic painter. In his later works, such as "Saturn Devouring His Son", Goya addresses themes.