Modernism is a cultural movement that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, characterized by a break from traditional forms and a search for new ways of expression. It influenced various fields, including literature, art, architecture, and music, as creators sought to reflect the rapidly changing world around them. Key themes include experimentation, abstraction, and a focus on individual perception. In literature, modernist writers like James Joyce and Virginia Woolf explored stream-of-consciousness techniques and fragmented narratives. In visual arts, movements such as Cubism and Surrealism challenged conventional representation, while architects like Le Corbusier embraced minimalism and functional design.