Industrial Revolution

Definition

The Industrial Revolution was a period of significant industrial growth and technological advancement that began in the late 18th century and continued into the 19th century, transforming economies from agrarian-based to industrial-based systems. This shift not only led to changes in production methods but also impacted society, culture, and the arts, laying the groundwork for new movements like Realism and Modernism.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Industrial Revolution began in Great Britain around the late 1700s, primarily due to advancements in textile manufacturing and steam power.
2. The rise of factories led to a shift in labor practices, as people moved from artisanal work at home to wage labor in industrial settings.
3. This period saw the emergence of new social classes, particularly the industrial working class and a wealthy capitalist class, fundamentally altering social structures.
4. The Industrial Revolution contributed to significant cultural changes, influencing literature, art, and philosophy, paving the way for movements like Realism that sought to depict everyday life.
5. The dramatic shifts in society during this time inspired thinkers and artists to reflect on industrial life, which shaped modern artistic expressions and narratives.

Review Questions

• How did the Industrial Revolution influence societal structures and the emergence of new classes?
  • The Industrial Revolution brought about significant societal changes by transforming economies from agriculture-based to industry-based. This shift led to the rise of new social classes, particularly the industrial working class who labored in factories, and a capitalist class that owned production means. As factories replaced traditional artisan work, this created distinct economic roles and altered social dynamics, fostering class consciousness among workers.
• In what ways did the Industrial Revolution pave the way for Realism in theatre?
  • The Industrial Revolution's impact on society and culture directly influenced the emergence of Realism in theatre. The movement focused on depicting everyday life and societal issues faced by ordinary people, reflecting the realities brought about by industrialization. The stark contrasts between urban and rural life, as well as class struggles resulting from industrial growth, provided rich material for playwrights seeking to portray authentic human experiences on stage.
• Evaluate how technological advancements during the Industrial Revolution changed artistic expressions in Modernism.
  • Technological advancements during the Industrial Revolution radically changed artistic expressions in Modernism by introducing new materials, methods, and themes. Artists began experimenting with forms and techniques that reflected contemporary life shaped by industrial progress, like using photography as an artistic medium. Additionally, themes of alienation, urbanization, and mechanization found their way into literature and visual arts as creators responded critically to the fast-paced changes in society.

Related terms

Urbanization: The process of population movement from rural areas to cities, often driven by the demand for factory labor during the Industrial Revolution.

Capitalism: An economic system characterized by private ownership of production and the pursuit of profit, which became more prominent during the Industrial Revolution.

Technological Advancements: Innovations such as the steam engine and mechanized looms that revolutionized manufacturing and production processes during the Industrial Revolution.