Analyze the differences in leisure activities shown in the two paintings, and reflect about the social life of peasants (The Peasant Dance) and of urban dwellers in the 19th century (Sunday Afternoon on the Island of the Grande Jatte).

Thesis: Since the beginning of the 19th century Europe began to experience rapid changes in culture and society. Many of the effects from the Industrial Revolution paved the way for new industries to be created. Between the creation of The Peasants Dance to when the Sunday Afternoon on the Island of the Grande Jatte was painted you can clearly see the differences in the leisure activities of the times from running around dancing to politely sitting and chatting with a friend. Peasant men and women had …show more content…

c. People had to be able to walk to their jobs, but with the creation of cable cars people were able to move out of the city into the suburbs.
d. Private transportation such as horse carriages allowed for wealthier people to have privacy and allowed them to distinguish themselves from the lower classes.
e. Wide boulevards prevented people from creating barricades and allowed for transportation to pass through.
f. 25 % of a middle classes earnings went towards food and beverages for their family
g. Some of the center topics of culture were books, music and traveling.
h. In the beginning of the century fashion began to focus on having elaborate, ornate designs with tight corsets and a crinoline (a slip with metal hoops), which would show the middle classes wealth. Whereas towards the end of the century fashion leaned toward more practical clothing in order to have an easier way to maneuver for work or since women were slowing gaining freedom in some areas.
i. Old aggressive sports had been replaced with racing and soccer.
j. Music became an enjoyable leisure activity. By 1900, in London there were more than 50 music halls and theatres.
k. Parks were also places people would got to, to enjoy the outdoors.
l. Marriage was basically for money and in some cases love.
m. Men worked and women took care of the home and