Definition of the word classicist

The term "classicist" originally referred to individuals who studied and appreciated the literary, artistic, and philosophical works of ancient Greece and Rome, known as the classical period. These scholars were interested in preserving and promoting the timeless values, styles, and ideas of this era. Classicism became a significant intellectual movement during the Renaissance, as humanists and scholars rediscovered and embraced classical learning. In the 18th century, the term "classicist" gained wider usage as a label for artists, writers, and thinkers who were influenced by classical culture and sought to create works that followed the classical ideals of simplicity, balance, and harmony. Today, the term "classicist" can refer to a broad range of individuals, from literary critics and scholars who specialize in classical texts to architects and designers who draw inspiration from classical aesthetics. In essence, a classicist is someone who upholds the classical tradition and seeks to emulate its virtues and values in their work and thinking.