Parnassians - Philosophical Concept | Alexandria
Parnassians: A literary movement in late 19th-century France, the Parnassians, or those associated with Le Parnasse contemporain, sought to restore order, precision, and objectivity to poetry, rebelling against the emotional excesses of Romanticism. Were they simply aesthetes valuing form over feeling, or something more complex? The term originates from Le Parnasse contemporain, an anthology of new poetry that first appeared in 1866. This publication, envisioned by publisher Alphonse Lemerre, became the central platform for poets like Théophile Gautier, Théodore de Banville, and Leconte de Lisle, signalling a distinct shift in poetic sensibilities. The anthology’s title, drawing from Mount Parnassus, the mythical home of the Muses in Greek mythology, subtly declared their ambitions.
The mid-19th century in France was a period of rapid social and political change, marked by the rise of industrialization, scientific advancements, and disillusionment following the failed revolutions of 1848. Against this backdrop, the Parnassians offered a refuge in art. Their focus on classical forms, detached observation, and meticulous craftsmanship stood in stark contrast to the Romantics' emphasis on personal emotion and subjective experience. Leconte de Lisle, a leading figure, advocated for impassibilité—an objective and detached tone that aimed to elevate poetry above mere personal sentiment.
The cultural impact of the Parnassians extended beyond their immediate circle. Algernon Charles Swinburne, influenced by their principles, incorporated Parnassian ideals into his work in England. Their emphasis on formal perfection influenced later poets like Paul Valéry, while their detached aesthetic foreshadowed the modernist movement. Yet, questions remain: did their pursuit of perfection stifle genuine expression, or did it offer a necessary corrective to Romantic excess? Were they truly detached, or did their choice of subjects reveal hidden passions?
While the movement itself eventually faded, its influence on succeeding generations of poets is undeniable. The Parnassians' emphasis on formal rigor and artistic autonomy continues to resonate in contemporary discussions about the role of art in society. Their legacy prompts us to consider the complex interplay between emotion, form, and historical context in shaping artistic expression. Were they merely antiquarians, or did they offer a timeless vision of art's potential?