For my second Art encounters blog, we were asked to discuss the ideas behind the Romanticism period, in addition to Modern Nationalism. As i tried to decide between the one in which I wanted to approach, I couldn't help but be drawn to the idea of the "Arch of Triumph" on page 119. I have a little bit of an interest in all things architectural, but this piece really inspired me because of its close resemblance to a similar arch that is located by my house.
If I haven't mentioned previously in one of my blogs, I am from Vancouver, Canada, and more specifically White Rock. White Rock is located roughly 10 miles from the border between the United States, and Canada. The crossing (which is both commercial and pedestrian equipped) is named "Peace Arch Crossing". With that being said, there is a giant arch that is located in what is known as "no-mans land". This is basically the area of land between the United States border crossing, and that of Canada's. I find it interesting that the arch located there, and the one that was originally created in France can share such a similar resemblance, while still maintaining the same principles of peace, prosperity, and resilience.
Relating back to the actual "Arch of Triumph", the initial basis for the construction of this arch was due to the idea of future French glory, and the sustainability of French success throughout Europe, created by the imperial mantle of the time, Napoleon Bonaparte. The initial feat and direction in which the French would commemorate such willingness and prosperity, would first be commemorated on the battle field, and eventually through the great artists and architects that helped to produce such a beautiful and strong masterpiece that would be the vision of French prosperity for centuries to come. The motivation behind such a triumphant piece of architecture was to not only commemorate but to substantialize the integrity and determination of the French, and their ability to overcome such odds and hardships through those who only wished to see France fail in their attempt of dominance. I feel that throughout the chapter, the ideals of liberty, prosperity and sacrifice are all interrelated because of the people's unselfishness and patriotism to their country. Nationalism is something that I feel was strongly developed throughout this time period. Not only was there situations where one situation prompted nationalism to become well known and understood, but the idea of patriotism to one's nationalism was truly exemplified with the unification of societies, but also armies and country nationals.
The architect, Jean-Francois Therese Chalgrin constructed this beautiful piece of architectural history through times of hardship, and lack luster leadership on the part of the French government. At one point, the project was cancelled, and the Arch of Triumph languished under the restored monarchy of Louis XVIII. With that being said however, the July Revolution of 1830 brought forth the 'Citizen King' Louis Phillipe, and once again restored a wave of enthusiasm to reclaim French glory that was captured by artists like Eugene Delacroix in his LIberty Leading the People.
In my opinion, this not only solidifies a French nationalistic movement, and the idea that the French may never die, and live stronger and prosperously forever, but it also speaks to the libertarian state in which the French people found themselves in. This directly relates back tot he ideas of liberty and life in which was discussed in the readings of this chapter. I feel that Giuseppe Mazzini summed this up best when he stated, "O my brothers, love your country! Our country is our home, our common workshop."
Although in some cases, it may be understood or deemed that democracy may degenerate into extremism, however, the revolutionary spirit is strong within every French and patriotic nationalist.
Another key issue that was touched on in this chapter, and can be exemplified through the construction and process of creating the "Arch of Triumph", was the issue of the Divine- right Monarch. Napoleon was clearly moving towards a godly figure, but at some point entered to far into the realm of which people now deem to be too spiritualistic, and overstepped his boundary possibly?
Ultimately, I found that throughout the readings, and relating closely to my focused area of the "Arch of Triumph", nationalism was truly and inexplicably depicted in the ideals of the French Revolution. By expressing themselves through art and music, this also lead into the romantic movement and a bold new vision of the interrelationship between the natural and the supernatural worlds.
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