Modernism vs Postmodernism - What is the
Difference?
[Link]/blog/modernism-vs-postmodernism
Gustavo Paniagua
8.26.2023
Modernism and Postmodernism are two different movements that exhibit specific
differences between them. Each one is based on changes in cultural and social behavior
around the world. Also, they started in distant periods beginning from the 19th and 20th
centuries. These movements came as a result of the thinking patterns of the society
during those times.
Modernism
Modernism relates to a sequence of cultural movements that happened in the late
nineteenth and the early twentieth centuries. They included reforming developments in
architecture, art, music, literature, and applied techniques. Modernism flourished between
860s and 1940s; preferably till 1945 when World War II ended. During that time, a lot of
importance was given to literary works. Also, this movement paid a lot of significance to
original works, such as paintings, sculpture, architecture, and poetry. In fact, during this
time original art was considered a primary creation.
Postmodernism
Postmodernism describes a broad movement that developed in the late 20th-century and
focused on philosophy, the arts, architecture, and criticism which marked a departure
from modernism. In fact, postmodernism is typically defined by an attitude of skepticism,
irony or rejection towards ideologies and various tenets of universalism, which included
objective notions of reason, human nature, social progress, among others. Moreover, this
movement is associated with schools of thought such as deconstruction and
poststructuralism.
how does postmodernism differ from modernism?
Postmodernism and modernism are distinct cultural, artistic, and intellectual movements
that emerged during different periods and have different philosophies and characteristics.
Here are some key differences between the two:
Historical Context:
Modernism: Modernism emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, roughly from
the 1890s to the 1940s. It was a response to the rapid social, political, and technological
changes of the time, such as industrialization and urbanization.
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Postmodernism: Postmodernism began to take shape in the mid-20th century, around
the 1950s, and continued into the late 20th century. It was a reaction to the perceived
failures and limitations of modernism, particularly in addressing social and cultural
complexities.
Rejection of Grand Narratives:
Modernism: Modernism often embraced grand narratives and a belief in progress,
rationality, and the possibility of achieving universal truths. It aimed for purity, simplicity,
and clarity in art, literature, and design.
Postmodernism: Postmodernism rejected grand narratives and the idea of a single,
objective truth. It embraced ambiguity, pluralism, and the notion that truth is relative and
context-dependent. Postmodern works often play with multiple perspectives and
interpretations.
Style and Aesthetics:
Modernism: Modernist art and literature favored abstraction, minimalism, and formal
experimentation. It aimed for originality and innovation, often breaking away from
traditional conventions.
Postmodernism: Postmodern art and literature frequently incorporated pastiche, parody,
and irony. It borrowed from various styles and sources, mixing high and low culture, and
challenging the notion of originality.
Attitude Toward Tradition:
Modernism: Modernism often sought to break with tradition and establish new forms and
expressions. It aimed to transcend the past and create something entirely new.
Postmodernism: Postmodernism was more open to reinterpreting and reappropriating
elements from the past. It questioned the idea of a linear historical progression and
valued the recycling of cultural references.
Subjectivity vs. Objectivity:
Modernism: Modernist works often aspired to objectivity and universality, attempting to
depict the world as it truly is. They emphasized the artist's individual vision but within a
broader search for truth.
Postmodernism: Postmodernism emphasized subjectivity and the idea that reality is
constructed through language, culture, and individual perspectives. It celebrated the
artist's and viewer's role in creating meaning.
Social and Political Engagement:
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Modernism: Modernism often engaged with political and social issues of the time but
sometimes leaned towards abstraction and formalism, which could be seen as a degree
of detachment.
Postmodernism: Postmodernism was more overtly political and critical of established
power structures. It explored issues of identity, race, gender, and class in a more direct
and confrontational manner.
It's important to note that these are general tendencies, and there can be overlap and
variations within both modernist and postmodernist works. Additionally, postmodernism is
not just a rejection of modernism but also a complex cultural phenomenon that
encompasses a wide range of perspectives and approaches.
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