The Pre-Raphaelite Movement

The Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood: Foundations and Philosophies

In 1848, the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood was established by a group of young artists and poets who sought to defy the artistic conventions of the Victorian era. They were inspired by the art and values that preceded the influence of the High Renaissance artist Raphael, hence their name. The Brotherhood's ideals were shaped by the critiques of John Ruskin, who opposed the British Royal Academy of Arts' promotion of Raphael's style. Founding members Dante Gabriel Rossetti, his brother William Michael Rossetti, William Holman Hunt, John Everett Millais, James Collinson, Frederic George Stephens, and Thomas Woolner, strived to rejuvenate art by focusing on meticulous realism, fidelity to nature, and the infusion of moral and spiritual truths.

Artistic Innovation and the Pre-Raphaelite Aesthetic

The Pre-Raphaelite movement represented a radical departure from the artistic norms of the time, advocating for a return to the detail-oriented and spiritually rich art of the early Renaissance. Their works were marked by vivid naturalism, intricate symbolism, and often included themes of romance and medievalism. The Brotherhood's paintings frequently depicted religious and moral narratives, executed with an intensity of detail and color that challenged conventional notions of beauty. Despite facing significant criticism from contemporaries like Charles Dickens, the Pre-Raphaelites' dedication to their vision contributed to the evolution of art, though internal disagreements led to the group's fragmentation in the 1850s.

Pre-Raphaelitism in Literature: Themes and Styles

The influence of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood extended into the literary domain, where it manifested in poetry and prose that celebrated detail, medievalism, and symbolism. The movement's literature often featured complex allegories and a fascination with both the past and the present. Dante Gabriel Rossetti, Christina Rossetti, and William Morris were among the key literary figures, producing works that delved into themes of love, beauty, and morality. Christina Rossetti's "Goblin Market," for instance, is renowned for its rich imagery and exploration of themes such as temptation and redemption, reflecting the movement's broader interest in the human condition.

Enduring Impact of the Pre-Raphaelite Movement

The Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood's influence extended well beyond its active years, leaving a lasting legacy on both art and literature. Their commitment to authenticity, detailed observation of nature, and defiance of artistic norms inspired future generations, including the Aesthetic and Arts and Crafts movements. The Pre-Raphaelites' "List of Immortals," a ranking of historical figures based on perceived excellence, exemplifies their ongoing dialogue with the artistic community. Today, the Pre-Raphaelite movement is celebrated for its distinctive contribution to the cultural and artistic milieu of the nineteenth century, and its works continue to be studied and admired for their beauty and complexity.