Meaning: The quote by Jean Racine, a renowned French dramatist, encapsulates the fundamental purpose of art. Racine asserts that the principal rule of art is to please and to move, emphasizing that every other rule in art is derived from the overarching goal of eliciting emotional responses from the audience. This quote encapsulates the essence of art as a means of evoking pleasure, provoking thought, and stirring emotions.

In understanding Racine's quote, it is essential to delve into the context and background of the author. Jean Racine (1639-1699) was a significant figure in French literature and is renowned for his tragedies that have left an indelible mark on the world of theater. His works, such as "Phèdre," "Andromaque," and "Britannicus," are celebrated for their profound exploration of human emotions and the human condition. Racine's emphasis on the emotive power of art reflects his own artistic endeavors and the impact he sought to achieve through his theatrical works.

Racine's assertion that the principal rule of art is to please and to move can be interpreted in various ways. Firstly, the notion of "pleasing" suggests that art should captivate and engage its audience. Whether through visual art, literature, music, or performance, the primary aim of art is to elicit enjoyment, captivation, and aesthetic pleasure. This aligns with the idea that art serves as a form of escapism and offers a respite from the mundane or harsh realities of life.

Furthermore, Racine's emphasis on "moving" the audience speaks to the profound emotional impact that art can have. Art has the power to evoke a wide spectrum of emotions, including joy, sorrow, empathy, and introspection. Whether through a poignant painting, a stirring piece of music, or a compelling theatrical performance, art has the capacity to elicit deep emotional responses and provoke introspection in its audience.

Racine's assertion that all other rules in art are created to achieve the primary goal of pleasing and moving the audience sheds light on the hierarchical nature of artistic principles. While there are various technical and aesthetic rules that govern different art forms, Racine posits that these rules are ultimately in service of the overarching objective of evoking emotional responses. Whether it pertains to the principles of composition in visual art, the structure of a narrative in literature, or the techniques of performance in theater, these rules are intended to enhance the capacity of art to please and move its audience.

From a broader perspective, Racine's quote underscores the universal and timeless nature of the artistic endeavor. Across cultures and throughout history, art has consistently sought to fulfill the dual purpose of pleasing and moving its audience. Whether in the grandeur of classical artworks, the profound narratives of literature, or the innovative expressions of contemporary art forms, the pursuit of emotional resonance and aesthetic pleasure remains a central tenet of artistic creation.

In conclusion, Jean Racine's quote embodies the intrinsic essence of art as a means of eliciting pleasure and provoking emotional responses. His assertion that all other rules in art are subordinate to the primary goal of pleasing and moving the audience highlights the centrality of emotional impact in artistic expression. Through his profound insight, Racine offers a timeless reminder of the enduring power of art to captivate, inspire, and stir the depths of human emotion.