University of Central Florida (UCF) HUM2020 Encountering the Humanities Midterm Practice Exam

The term "the sublime" in art and literature refers to experiences that inspire awe or terror, which is reflected in the choice selected. The sublime encompasses a range of feelings that can include wonder, fear, and admiration, often evoking a response to nature or human creativity that is both overwhelming and awe-inspiring. This concept has been significant in various artistic movements, particularly during the Romantic period, where artists and writers sought to capture the majesty and terror of the natural world or human experience.

This notion contrasts markedly with the other options. Experiences that evoke peace and tranquility reflect a more serene and harmonious approach, which is not characteristic of the sublime. Similarly, events that are purely fictional and imaginative do not address the profound emotional responses associated with the sublime. Lastly, while themes focused solely on human emotions are relevant to literature and art, they do not encompass the broader, often more extreme emotional responses, such as awe and terror, that the sublime entails. Therefore, the most fitting definition of "the sublime" is indeed the experiences that inspire awe or terror.