A Cultural History of the Emotions in the Baroque and Enlightenment Age

The term "emotion" was first used during the Baroque and Enlightenment periods to describe mental feelings, but the older terminology of "passions" and "affections" continued to dominate. Emotions research has helped to reevaluate dominant narratives of the period and explore the causes and consequences of emotional change.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 232 pages
Publication date: 22 September 2022
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

The term "emotion" gained popularity during the Baroque and Enlightenment periods, although its usage was somewhat irregular. It eventually evolved to encompass mental feelings and emerged as a distinct concept. While "passions" and "affections" remained the dominant discourse in understanding feelings, their influence persisted in shaping thoughts about their broader religious, political, social, economic, and moral implications.

These essays provide valuable insights into the emotional cultures of the Baroque and Enlightenment periods, allowing for a comparative analysis of the history of emotions. They challenge prevailing narratives and shed light on the causes and consequences of emotional change within these larger cultural contexts. As a field of study in its infancy, the essays presented here offer a glimpse of the potential for a much broader and deeper exploration of the emotional experiences of past societies.

The study of emotions has revolutionized our understanding of the past by challenging traditional narratives and revealing the complex interplay between social, cultural, and individual factors. It has shown that emotions were not just private experiences but were deeply intertwined with broader political, social, and cultural movements. By exploring the emotional cultures of the Baroque and Enlightenment periods, we can gain a deeper appreciation of the complexities of human experience and the ways in which emotions have shaped our world.

In conclusion, the essays presented here provide a valuable contribution to the study of emotions and offer a glimpse into the rich and complex emotional landscapes of the Baroque and Enlightenment periods. As the field of emotions research continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more insights into the history, causes, and consequences of emotional change and its impact on our understanding of the past.

Weight: 431g
Dimension: 244 x 169 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350345249