Arthur Schopenhauer

Definition

Arthur Schopenhauer was a German philosopher known for his pessimistic philosophy and his idea that human desire is the source of suffering. His thoughts on the nature of existence and the role of art greatly influenced the Symbolist movement, as he proposed that art serves as a means to escape the relentless cycle of desire and suffering, connecting deeply with the emotional and spiritual exploration found in Symbolism.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Schopenhauer believed that life is fundamentally driven by an irrational force he called the 'Will,' which creates endless desires and leads to suffering.
2. He argued that art, particularly music, provides a unique way for individuals to escape the burdens of existence by allowing them to connect with universal truths beyond everyday life.
3. His ideas emphasized the importance of individual experience and perception, resonating with Symbolist artists who sought to express inner emotions rather than external realities.
4. Schopenhauer's influence extended to many artists and writers, including Wagner, Nietzsche, and Freud, shaping various aspects of modern thought and aesthetics.
5. The Symbolist movement embraced Schopenhauer's notions of beauty and aesthetic experience as a counterbalance to the harshness of reality, leading to art that focused on emotion, symbolism, and deeper meanings.

Review Questions

• How did Schopenhauer’s concept of the 'Will' influence Symbolist artists in their creative expressions?
  • Schopenhauer's concept of the 'Will' posits that an insatiable drive underlies human existence, creating endless desires. Symbolist artists connected with this idea by expressing inner emotions and exploring themes of suffering and transcendence in their works. They sought to communicate feelings that go beyond everyday experiences, using symbolism to represent deeper truths about life and existence.
• In what ways did Schopenhauer's views on aesthetic experience shape the ideals of the Symbolist movement?
  • Schopenhauer viewed aesthetic experience as a means for individuals to rise above their desires and find peace through art. This idea heavily influenced Symbolists who believed that engaging with art could lead to spiritual enlightenment or emotional release. They embraced the notion that art should evoke feelings and convey meanings beyond literal interpretation, aligning closely with Schopenhauer's emphasis on beauty as an escape from suffering.
• Evaluate how Schopenhauer’s pessimistic philosophy reflects in the themes commonly explored by Symbolist artists and writers.
  • Schopenhauer's pessimistic philosophy highlights suffering as an inherent part of existence due to unending desires. This perspective resonates with Symbolist artists who often depicted themes of despair, longing, and existential angst in their work. They sought to reveal deeper emotional truths through symbols and metaphors, mirroring Schopenhauer's view that art serves as a refuge from life's harsh realities while also addressing the complex relationship between beauty, suffering, and desire.

Related terms

Will to Live: Schopenhauer's concept that the driving force behind human actions is an irrational and insatiable will to live, which leads to constant desire and suffering.

Aesthetic Experience: A key aspect of Schopenhauer's philosophy, suggesting that engaging with art allows individuals to transcend their desires and experience a sense of peace and beauty.

Pessimism: The philosophical viewpoint that emphasizes the negative aspects of life and human existence, which is central to Schopenhauer's thought.