Neoclassicism Synthesis Essay

The hardest type of change is that which we ask for and deem necessary, especially when we feel as though we will not be heard or seen by those we hope to reach; when we are the minority or the oppressed. It takes an immense strength and will to make that type of change happen, but it only takes one person to start it. The amazing thing is that seeing the power of one stand up to the majority sparks others to have the power and courage to do so as well. This spark, spreading like fire is not easily extinguished; fighting it only makes it grow stronger; it is only calmed by achieving the necessary change it burns for. The Declaration of Independence, The Declaration of the Rights of Man and Citizen, and A Vindication of the Rights of Women all
All three documents were obviously influenced by Neoclassicism, an appreciation for the Classical traditions that was prevalent in America, as well as throughout Europe, especially in France during the mid to late 18th century. Neoclassicism revered the societies of ancient Athens and Rome perceiving them to be democratic societies that were “stable, balance, and rational”. They were societies that had amazing progression both socially and intellectually. Both the Declaration of Independence and The Declaration of the Rights of Man and Citizen speak of new democratic governments in which power will be balanced and given to the people. In fact, The Declaration of Independence was written by Thomas Jefferson who was known to love the Classical tradition, even designing his own home in the style; it is not a surprise that the ideals of those societies were written into the document he authored. While A Vindication of the Rights of Women does not explicitly speak of a more equal and citizen-controlled government, Wollstonecraft does speak of the need for