Rousseau and Romanticism

"Rousseau and Romanticism" by Irving Babbitt is a philosophical critique written in the early 20th century. This work analyzes the influence of Jean-Jacques Rousseau on the Romantic movement and attempts to explore the tension between Romanticism and classicism in literature and philosophy. Central to the book’s discussion is the examination of the philosophical underpinnings that distinguish Romantic thought, particularly as it relates to individualism and the ideals of naturalism. The opening of the text introduces the author's intention to dissect Rousseau's profound impact on the Romantic movement, positing that to engage with Rousseau's writings is to engage with an expansive cultural dialogue. Babbitt emphasizes that while Rousseau represents a significant shift in thought, he does not seek to produce an exhaustive analysis of Rousseau's life or philosophy. Instead, he focuses on the repercussions of Romantic naturalism and individualism as seen through Rousseau's work, contrasting it against classicism, which he views as a stabilizing force in the humanist tradition. Babbitt sets up a framework through which he will critique both Romanticism’s excesses and its intrinsic value, establishing his philosophical standpoint right from the start.