The Symbolist movement was an artistic and literary movement that emerged in the late 19th century, primarily in France. It sought to express emotions and ideas through symbolic imagery rather than direct representation. Symbolists believed that art should evoke feelings and suggest meanings, often using metaphors and allegories to convey deeper truths. Key figures of the movement included poets like Stéphane Mallarmé and Paul Verlaine, who emphasized musicality and the beauty of language. The movement influenced various art forms, including painting and music, leading to a broader exploration of the subconscious and the mystical in creative expression.