Regarding the sheer functions of the senses, one usually refers to anatomy or medicine. Thinking of the effects of sensual perception on the human psyche, however, one inevitably has to turn to psychology. Even in our postmodern multimedial world, there still exists a certain segregation between outer sensual perception and inner feelings or imaginations. There are rare attempts to bring together both mind and body, medicine and psychology and, for instance, to heal diseases in a holistic way. And yet, in the 18th century, the detachment of sensual perception and spirituality was much more absolute than it is today. Not only was love as a unity of sensuality and spiritual understanding unthinkable, but also sensuality in connection with love was abominated by public opinion (Behler 1962: XXIV). In the then upcoming Romantic movement, the idea of the unity of mind and body was prevalent (Behler 1962: XXXII). Although the Romanticists emphasized the immaterialistic and irrational such as emotion and imagination, they strived to bring together all extremes (see also ch. II). In the novel “Lucinde” by Friedrich Schlegel, the inner state of mind and the outer sensual perceptions determine one another. Taking into consideration this interplay as well as the Romantic vision of unity, one cannot possibly investigate the five senses without referring to the inner state - or the inner sense/senses.
Therefore, in this essay, the mingling of sensuality and spirituality in Schlegel’s “Lucinde” will be analysed. Beforehand, a brief outline of the Romantic ideology of the senses and how it was influenced by earlier philosophers will be given in order to gain a deeper understanding of the topic.
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- Introduction
- Romantic Ideology of the Senses
- Sensuality and Spirituality in Friedrich Schlegel's “Lucinde”
- Conclusion
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This essay aims to analyze the intertwining of sensuality and spirituality in Friedrich Schlegel's novel "Lucinde." To achieve this, it provides a brief overview of the Romantic ideology of the senses, tracing its roots in earlier philosophical thought. This exploration will allow for a deeper understanding of the novel's unique approach to love and its implications for the Romantic movement.
- The Romantic ideology of the senses and its roots in philosophical thought
- The concept of unity between mind and body in Romanticism
- The role of sensual perception and inner experience in "Lucinde"
- The intersection of sensual and spiritual love in the novel
- The influence of "Lucinde" on the Romantic movement
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
The introduction establishes the context for the essay by discussing the historical separation of sensuality and spirituality in the 18th century, contrasting it with the Romantic emphasis on their unity. It highlights the unique interplay of inner and outer senses within "Lucinde," setting the stage for a deeper analysis.
Chapter II examines the Romantic ideology of the senses, tracing its origins back to Aristotle and John Locke's theories of knowledge and the senses. It discusses the influence of key philosophers like Kant, Fichte, and Baumgarten on the Romantic view of art and poetry as a means of reconciling opposing concepts, particularly through the use of synaesthesia.
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
Key terms and concepts explored in the essay include sensuality, spirituality, Romantic ideology, the senses, inner and outer experience, unity of mind and body, sensual love, spiritual love, "Lucinde," synaesthesia, and the Romantic movement.
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- Daria Eva Stanco (Autor), 2007, Sensuality and Spirituality in Friedrich Schlegel's "Lucinde", Múnich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/117233
