18-19 Century Essay, help needed

Question

"Nationalism (define the concept) permeates both the Neoclassical and the Romantic styles (and to a degree the Realism period as well - when it takes a turn for the worse) of the 18th and 19th Century. Explain what causes the rise of national sentiments (contextualize) and how it is expressed in the two artistic styles and in both art and music (particularize).

Preferably use four specific examples (one each for art and music for each of the two styles). Examples may come from one or more countries."

 

I need help understanding and answering this question.

Answer 1

Ok, first off define nationalism. Nationalism is a social term used to describe a country or social group that feels strongly about their culture. It is often illustrated in art and music. For example the Star Spangled Banner is a nationalistic musical piece written about America. the question then wants to know what may have happened in that time period that would have made that country feel strongly about their national identity. In the United States we often become nationalistic during times of crisis, like after 9/11 and Katrina. Afterwards people banded together as Americans. There was lots of music written about America, like Toby Keith's Courtesy of the Red, White, and Blue, and dramatic artwork like the 9/11 memorial. What may have happened in that time period to make people feel strongly about their heritage? It doesn't have to be a bad thing, Americans, for example, may feel nationalistic after their Olympic team performs well or after the ending of a war, like after WWII. Think about what incident would make them feel proud about their past and want to show that pride in art and music. the second part asks that you produce two art pieces and two music pieces as an example. You should probably find a neoclassical art piece and musical piece, as well as a romantic art piece and musical piece. Think about what they are proud of and how they would show that in art. Does that help?

 

From the context of your question I'm assuming you're  talking about the Renassaince period of Europe and the retableshment of Greek and Roman influences on art and music.