Role of culture in nationalism of Europe?
Culture played an important role in creating the idea of the nation: art and poetry, stories and music helped express and shape nationalist feelings. effort was to create a sense of a shared collective heritage, a common cultural past, as the basis of a nation. Other Romantics such as the German philosopher Johann Gottfried Herder (1744-1803) claimed that true German culture was to be discovered among the common people – das volk. It was through folk songs, folk poetry and folk dances that the true spirit of the nation (volksgeist) was popularised. So collecting and recording these forms of folk culture was essential to the project of nation-building.
The emphasis on vernacular language and the collection of local folklore was not just to recover an ancient national spirit, but also to carry the modern nationalist message to large audiences who were mostly illiterate. This was especially so in the case of Poland, which had been partitioned at the end of the eighteenth century by the Great Powers – Russia, Prussia and Austria. Even though Poland no longer existed as an independent territory, national feelings were kept alive through music and language. Karol Kurpinski, for example, celebrated the national struggle through his operas and music, turning folk dances like the polonaise and mazurka into nationalist symbols.
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Role of culture in nationalism of Europe?
The role of culture in nationalism of Europe is significant. Culture refers to the shared beliefs, values, customs, and practices of a group of people. In Europe, nationalism emerged as a political ideology that aimed to unify people who shared a common culture, language, history, and territory. Culture played a crucial role in the development of nationalism in Europe, and the following are some of the ways it influenced the movement:
Cultural factors that contributed to nationalism
1. Language: Language was one of the most critical cultural factors that contributed to nationalism in Europe. People who spoke the same language felt a sense of belonging and unity, and this became a unifying force for many nations. For instance, the unification of Germany was largely based on the German language.
2. History: History also played a significant role in the development of nationalism in Europe. Many nations used their historical experiences to create a sense of unity and identity. For example, the French used the French Revolution to create a national identity based on the values of liberty, equality, and fraternity.
3. Literature and Art: Literature and art also contributed to the development of nationalism in Europe. Many writers, artists, and musicians used their works to promote national pride and unity. For example, in Poland, literature played a significant role in creating a sense of national identity.
4. Religion: Religion was also an important factor in the development of nationalism in Europe. In many countries, religion was used to create a sense of national identity. For example, in Ireland, Catholicism became a symbol of Irish identity and resistance against British rule.
Conclusion
In conclusion, culture played a significant role in the development of nationalism in Europe. Language, history, literature, art, and religion were some of the cultural factors that contributed to the growth of nationalism. The sense of unity and identity created through these cultural factors helped to promote national pride and create a desire for self-determination among many European nations.
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