Why is medieval Europe "romantic"?
Stone castles, knightly oaths, deep forests and candlelights...
Why are we attracted to such a "medieval European" world?
In this article,
The true nature of "romance" felt in medieval Europe will be explored from a psychological and cultural perspective.
The source of "romance" is "longing for what is lost"
Today is an era of convenience and freedom.
Still, do you ever feel suffocated" or "noisy somewhere**?
The worldview of medieval Europe is the exact opposite.
- Slow-flowing time
- solemn tranquility
- Clear roles and order
These are "quiet values" that are not often seen in modern times.
In other words, the romance of medieval Europe was a longing for "what is not here and now".
"Ambiguous Now" and "Clear Past"
Modern society has many choices, and "freedom" is the premise.
On the other hand, it also creates "anxiety about not being anything" and "ambiguity of role".
The medieval world was...
- The role was clear (farmer, knight, clergyman, etc.)
- There was an order supported by faith and discipline
- The rules of society were simple
This kind of "clarity" is also an element that makes us feel "envious" for those of us who live in today's world.
"Idealized Middle Ages" in Fantasy Works
The "medieval European style" world that appears in movies and games is
It is much more beautifully depicted than actual history.
- Knights are noble and brave
- The castle is mysterious and robust
- A forest where magic and spirits live
These are not real medievals, but ** "the Middle Ages drawn by man as an ideal"**.
In other words, the "romance" we feel is directed towards the imaginary Middle Ages, not historical facts.
"Romance" is what is created by one's own inner self
What makes medieval Europe "beautiful" is
It may be because they are projecting "ideals within themselves" and "healing" onto them.
- People who seek "peace of mind" in a disciplined world
- People who feel "healing" in quiet times
- People who yearn for "certainty" as much as they are inconvenient
Everyone is attracted to the Middle Ages for different reasons.
However, what they have in common is that they are trying to compensate for emotions that are difficult to satisfy in modern times.
Conclusion: The Modern Mind in the Mirror of the Middle Ages
What makes us feel "romantic" is
It may not be the past itself, but the "future reflected in the past".
Being attracted to medieval Europe means
It is proof that you are feeling "what is lacking in your current life".
If you value that feeling,
In today's busy world, you may be able to bring back a little bit of tranquility.