Sturm und Drang

Sturm und Drang was an influential German literary and artistic movement from the late 18th century, roughly 1765–1785. Its name means "Storm and Stress," reflecting its focus on intense emotion, individualism, and rebellion against social norms. The movement emphasized raw feelings, personal freedom, and nature’s power, often exploring themes of heroism, conflict, and inner struggle. It influenced later Romanticism by promoting expressive, passionate art and literature that celebrated human originality and emotional depth. Overall, Sturm und Drang aimed to break free from Enlightenment rationality, highlighting the complexity of human experience through passionate expression.