Modernism vs. Postmodernism

University Quick Course7 minutes read

The 20th century saw the division between modernism, focused on reason and progress, and post-modernism, which critiqued modernist ideals and embraced individual interpretation and diversity in art and literature. Modernism favored abstraction and experimentation in arts, music, and literature, while post-modernism valued relativism and celebrated differences over rationality and universalism.

Insights

  • Modernism in the 20th century championed reason and scientific progress, spurring abstract and experimental approaches in arts, music, and literature.
  • Post-modernism emerged as a response to modernism, critiquing its emphasis on rationality and universalism, instead promoting individual interpretation, relativism, and the celebration of diversity in art and literature.

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Recent questions

  • What are the two main movements of the 20th century?

    Modernism and post-modernism.

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Summary

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Modernism vs Post-Modernism: A Cultural Evolution

  • The 20th century was divided into modernism and post-modernism, with the latter being a response to the former.
  • Modernism stemmed from the Enlightenment period, emphasizing human progress through reason and science.
  • Modernism in arts, music, and literature rejected realism for abstraction and experimentation.
  • Post-modernism, influenced by technological advancements, led to individual interpretation of art and literature.
  • Post-modernism critiqued modernist ideals of rationality and universalism, emphasizing relativism and celebrating differences.
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