What is the Difference Between Modernity and Modernism?

05/31/2025 • Felipe Moraes

The terms modernity and modernism are related but distinct concepts. Here are the key differences between them:

  • Modernity refers to a broader historical period marked by societal and technological changes, characterized by a belief in progress, individualism, and rationality. It is often contrasted with pre-modern or traditional societies.
  • Modernism, on the other hand, refers to a specific cultural and artistic movement that emerged within the modern period. It is a trend in art, culture, and social relations that is characterized by the development of new ideas and techniques.

In summary, modernity represents the broader historical context, while modernism is a specific cultural movement that took place within that context. Modernity encompasses various changes in society, while modernism is focused on the arts and culture.

Comparative Table: Modernity vs Modernism

Here is a table highlighting the differences between modernity and modernism:

Feature Modernity Modernism
Context Refers to the broader historical period marked by societal and technological changes, lasting from the end of the Middle Ages to the middle of the 20th century Refers to a specific artistic and cultural movement that spanned approximately from 1890 to 1939, operating within the context of modernity
Historical Period Exists in a post-industrial context, associated with capitalism and new global social relations Occurred during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, more influenced by culture and social changes
Rejection of Realism Not explicitly mentioned, but modernity is characterized by rapid evolution and changes in various aspects of human life Rejected realism and worked within a cultural context that opposed realistic portrayals
Influences Influenced by political, economic, and technological changes, such as the development of North America and economically crushing wars Influenced by the weakening influence of the church and the turning away from Enlightenment thinking
Direction Modernity focuses on progress, scientific rationalism, and the autonomous self Modernism can be seen as a transitional phase between modern and postmodern eras, questioning or dismissing some of the assumptions made during the modern era

In summary, modernity refers to the broader historical period marked by societal and technological changes, while modernism refers to a specific artistic and cultural movement that occurred within the context of modernity.

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