As a field expert in the history of literature, I can tell you that Romanticism was not created by a single individual but rather emerged as a cultural and artistic movement in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. It was a reaction against the Enlightenment's emphasis on reason and science, and it championed emotion, imagination, and individualism. Romanticism was characterized by a deep appreciation for nature, a fascination with the past, and a focus on the sublime and the mysterious.

The movement had its roots in various parts of Europe, including Germany, where it was known as Sturm und Drang (Storm and Stress), and it spread throughout the continent, influencing literature, music, and the visual arts. In England, Romanticism was marked by the works of several key figures, such as William Wordsworth and Samuel Taylor Coleridge, who were pioneers in the movement. Their collaboration on the "Lyrical Ballads" in 1798 is often seen as the beginning of the English Romantic period.

In addition to Wordsworth and Coleridge, the English Romantic period was also defined by the works of poets like John Keats, Lord Byron, and Percy Bysshe Shelley. These poets, along with others, explored themes of love, beauty, and the human condition, often using vivid imagery and emotional language to evoke powerful responses from their readers.

The historical novel, which you mentioned, was indeed a significant development within the Romantic movement. Sir Walter Scott is often credited with popularizing the genre with his novels that combined historical settings with imaginative storytelling. His works, such as "Ivanhoe" and "Waverley," captured the public's imagination and contributed to the revival of interest in history and folklore.

Romantic literature also saw a renewed focus on the individual and the subjective experience. This was in stark contrast to the more objective and rational approach of the Enlightenment. Romantic writers believed in the power of the individual to experience and interpret the world in a unique way, which is evident in their emphasis on personal emotions and the individual's connection to nature.

Moreover, Romanticism was a time of great social and political change, and many Romantic writers were deeply involved in the political and social debates of their time. They often critiqued the status quo and advocated for greater freedom and equality. This political engagement is evident in the works of Lord Byron, who was known for his radical views and his support of various revolutionary causes.

In summary, Romanticism was a complex and multifaceted movement that cannot be attributed to a single creator. It was a collective effort of many artists and writers who shared a common set of values and ideals. The movement had a profound impact on the cultural landscape of the time and continues to influence art and literature to this day.

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The revived historical appreciation was translated into imaginative writing by Sir Walter Scott, who is often considered to have invented the historical novel. At about this same time English Romantic poetry had reached its zenith in the works of John Keats, Lord Byron, and Percy Bysshe Shelley.read more >>