How Modernism Has Shaped Society

Introduction to Modernism

Throughout history, mankind has changed greatly. One way we can see this change is through Modernism. Modernism altered mankind’s general thoughts and can be observed through the transformations in art and music, and the theories of Sigmund Freud and Charles Darwin. Modernism is a character or quality of thought, expression, or technique that goes against the classical or traditional norms.

The Impact of Modernism on Art and Music

One example of how Modernism changed mankind is seen in the changes in art and music during the modern era. Music was very cheerful and energetic before Modernism took over. For example, Antonio Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons Movement I: Spring (1725), which is very cheerful and springy, was composed before Modernism. In rebellion to this, music became more dramatic and harsh to the ears. Despite this harshness, people found it compelling and innovative. One of the compositions that exemplifies Modernism is George Crumb's Black Angels (1971). This piece is very dramatic and expressive, and arguably challenging to listen to.

Another example is seen in the change in art. At the very beginning of the modern era, art was all about detail, background, and realism. One of the paintings at the beginning of Modernism was Louis XIV of France by Hyacinthe Rigaud (1854). This painting boasts a lot of detail and very bold colors, resembling a photograph due to its intricacy. Over time, many painters sought to be different, making their paintings more organic and abstract. One such painter was Edvard Munch. His painting The Scream (1893) features very free and organic lines, resembling something a fourth grader might paint. This painting conveys a unique visual touch and feeling, which has contributed to its fame. Throughout the modern era, mankind evolved their perception of what constitutes good art and music, embracing more abstract and expressive forms.

Freud's Influence on Modern Thought

In addition, Sigmund Freud changed the way mankind thought throughout the modern era. Before Modernism, society was prim and proper, avoiding discussions of inappropriate or deeply emotional topics. Freud, however, introduced new ideas during the modern era that were both intriguing and logical. One of his ideas, often considered controversial, was the notion that when we are young, we are sexually attracted to our parents. He suggested that because they are our primary source of love, we develop this attraction. He also posited that we are only attracted to one parent, which influences our affections. This phase was termed the anal phase. Another thought was that our perception of parental love shapes our worldview and how we love others throughout our lives.

Darwin's Evolutionary Impact

Not only did Sigmund Freud introduce new ideas, but another thinker, Charles Darwin, also brought revolutionary concepts during the modern era. He transformed the way mankind viewed the origin of life. Previously, people believed in the Biblical creation story, asserting that God created man. After Darwin’s theory of evolution emerged, many began to reconsider their beliefs. His ideas were applied to various aspects of life—political, social, and economic—leading to societal challenges. For instance, humanity used these concepts to justify political, social, or economic views, aligning with Darwin’s idea of the survival of the fittest.

Conclusion

In conclusion, with the examples and reasons shown, one can see that mankind changed greatly with the ideas and theories of Freud and Darwin. Mankind also transformed the way they expressed themselves in art and music. Modernism shaped the contemporary world by providing much more freedom in artistic expression and intellectual thought.

References

1. Crumb, G. (1971). Black Angels. [Musical composition].
2. Freud, S. (1923). The Ego and the Id. London: Hogarth Press.
3. Munch, E. (1893). The Scream. [Painting].
4. Rigaud, H. (1854). Louis XIV of France. [Painting].
5. Vivaldi, A. (1725). The Four Seasons Movement I: Spring. [Musical composition].
6. Darwin, C. (1859). On the Origin of Species. London: John Murray.