Definition for Neoclassicism
From Biology Forums Dictionary
Architectural neoclassicism (18th century) sought to embrace the complex philosophical concerns of the 18th century Enlightenment. The result is a series of styles and sub-styles. Neoclassicism offered a new way of examining the past. Eclectic, as well as historical, architectural neoclassicism exhibits a variety of treatments of forms of Greek and Roman classicism—for example, clearly stated Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian porches with pedimented rooflines. Neoclassicism in painting (18th century) reflects a perception of grandeur in antiquity. Classical details appear selectively. Often, the style is characterized by starkness of outline, strong geometric composition, and smooth color areas and gradations reflecting the formality of the classical tradition. The details of neoclassical paintings move toward the surface, appearing as if in a shallow picture box defined by simple architectural frameworks. Neoclassicism in sculpture (18th century), like painting, reflects a perception of grandeur in antiquity. It frequently manifests itself in life-sized portrait busts that exhibit acute psychological observation and accurate technical execution. Works in this style seem to pursue truth through lifelikeness. Neoclassical theatre is a style occurring simultaneously with Baroque style in music, visual art, and architecture (1550-1720). The term “neoclassicism” or “new” classicism refers to the attempt by the French literary Academy to recreate the dramatic structure of Greek classical playwrights such as Sophocles. Plays of this style had to be written according to specific “rules” thought to adhere to the “Unities” described by Aristotle. Specifically, the action of the play must occur in a single location and encompass no more than 24 hours. The major playwrights of this style were the tragedians Pierre Corneille and Jean Racine, with Molière providing comedies set in baroque ambiance. Musical classicism (18th century) rejected what was seen as excessive ornamentation and complexity in Baroque music and aimed toward a broad audience appeal. The style, reflecting the ideals of general classicism, sought to achieve order, simplicity, and careful attention to form. The style is called “classical” rather than neoclassical because music had no classical (Greek or Roman) antecedents to which it could turn. It is, thus, classical in ideal rather than model. The classical style in music exhibits five basic characteristics: (1) variety and contrast in mood; (2) flexibility of rhythm; (3) predominantly homophonic texture; (4) memorable melody; and (5) gradual changes in dynamics. Neoclassicism in music (20th century) is marked by emotional restraint, balance, and clarity. Neoclassical music utilizes forms and stylistic features of earlier periods, particularly the 18th century. It, however, does not merely revive earlier classical music. Rather, it uses earlier techniques to organize modern harmonies and rhythms. Much neoclassical music is modeled on J. S. Bach, giving rise to the conclusion that neobaroque might also be a fair description. The two principal composers in this style are Stravinsky and Hindemith.