Type a short paragraph explaining how the Romantic theory of poetry reflects the early nineteenth century's emphasis on individualism.

The Romantics thought of poetry as the creation of an individual genius Rather than emphasizing earlier poets, they looked for Innovation. Romanticism was affirmative and appropriate for most American poets and creative essayists. America's vast mountains, deserts, and tropics embodied the sublime. The Romantic spirit seemed particularly suited to American democracy. the early 19th century's emphasis on individualism resulted in such giants as William Blake (actually  pre-Romantic), Keats, Shelly and Byron. They launched the Romantic era with a burst of energy that still resonates today.