Hum2230 Unit 4 Study Questions

Questions and Answers

How is the Neoclassical style influenced by what's happening at the time and place in which it emerges?

It was influenced by believing that we can control our future and a clear understanding of life, including new ideas with no brush-strokes and a smooth surface.

What does the term 'Neoclassical' mean and what is it a reference to?

It means new rational thinking through the classical style of modern life and refers to an old style with a new creation behind it.

What are the characteristics of the Neoclassical style?

Sober colors, shallow space, strong horizontal and vertical lines, and classical subjects.

What is the Enlightenment and who are some major Enlightenment thinkers?

The Enlightenment is the shift in the middle of the eighteenth century involving open minds and new ideas, with major thinkers like Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Denis Diderot, and Voltaire. Signup and view all the answers

What is Rousseau's idea concerning the 'Social Contract'?

He believed the king does not receive power from God and that real power comes from the people. Signup and view all the answers

What is deism?

Deism is the belief in a God, based on reason and nature, who does not intervene in people's reality. Signup and view all the answers

Why were Enlightenment thinkers like Diderot against Rococo art?

They believed Rococo art was immoral and indecent, advocating for art that teaches morals. Signup and view all the answers

What were the causes of the French Revolution?

It was caused by huge debt from loans to America, homelessness, starvation, and the inequity of tax burdens on the wealthy. Signup and view all the answers

What were the causes of the American Revolution?

The Stamp Act, higher taxes, British troops occupying cities, and the Boston Massacre. Signup and view all the answers

What are the characteristics of music from the Classical period?

Western-style music featuring a variety of keys, melodies, rhythms, dynamics, with an increase in pianoforte use and instrumental focus. Signup and view all the answers

How are the selections from Mozart and Beethoven good examples of Classical music?

Mozart composed melodies with smooth instrumentation and new genres, while Beethoven highlighted the piano's importance. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Neoclassical Style

Emerged from the belief in human control over the future and openness to new ideas.
Characterized by a smooth surface free of visible brush strokes, promoting clarity.

Definition of Neoclassical

Represents new rational thinking rooted in classical traditions.
Combines aspects of ancient styles with modern interpretations.

Characteristics of Neoclassical Style

Utilizes sober colors and shallow spatial depth.
Features strong horizontal and vertical lines along with classical themes.

Enlightenment Overview

A shift in the mid-18th century promoting open-mindedness and new concepts.
Key thinkers include Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Denis Diderot, and Voltaire.
Major contributions focus on scientific understanding and perspectives on the universe.

Questioned the divine right of kings, stating it was a myth.
Believed true power resides with the people, who have the right to remove authority.

Deism Concept

Developed by Enlightenment thinkers, positing that while God exists, He is not active in human affairs.
Recognizes God primarily through scriptural texts without direct involvement in daily life.

Enlightenment Opposition to Rococo Art

Critics like Diderot viewed Rococo art as immoral and indecent.
Advocated for art that serves educational purposes, teaching moral principles.

Causes of the French Revolution

Driven by debt incurred from aiding America during its war.
Widespread homelessness, food scarcity and tax exemption for the wealthy worsened social conditions.

Causes of the American Revolution

Sparked by the British Stamp Act, imposing unfair taxes without colonial representation.
Tensions escalated due to the presence of British troops, culminating in the Boston Massacre.

Classical Music Characteristics

Defined by advancements in Western music, showcasing a variety of keys, melodies, rhythms, and dynamics.
Pianoforte became more prominent, replacing the harpsichord, with an emphasis on instrumental compositions.

Mozart and Beethoven as Classical Music Examples

Mozart known for fluid melodies and innovative genres like opera and virtuoso concerto.
Beethoven highlighted the piano's significance, as evident in the Symphony No. 5, First Movement, emphasizing instrumental music.

Description

Prepare for your Hum2230 exam with our study questions focusing on Unit 4. This set of flashcards covers the historical context and characteristics of the Neoclassical style, emphasizing the influence of contemporary events and ideas on art. Test your understanding and enhance your knowledge in art history.