Aestheticism in Literature

Aestheticism in literature is a movement that emphasizes beauty and sensory experiences over moral or social themes. Originating in the late 19th century, it prioritizes art for art's sake, suggesting that literature's main purpose is to evoke emotions and pleasure rather than convey messages or serve a moral agenda. Writers associated with this movement, like Oscar Wilde, believed that the appreciation of beauty and form enriches life. This approach often involves intricate language, vivid imagery, and a focus on the artistic qualities of the work itself, inviting readers to experience the art rather than analyze its meaning or purpose.