Classicism, in the arts, refers generally to a high regard for classical antiquity, as setting standards for taste which the classicist seeks to emulate.

The art of classicism typically seeks to be formal and restrained. It can also refer to the other periods of classicism.

It is applied generally to clearness, elegance, symmetry, and repose produced by attention to traditional forms. It is synonymous with excellence or artistic quality of high distinction.

The term refers to the admiration and imitation of Greek and Roman literature, art, and architecture.

Because the principles of classicism were derived from the rules and practices of the ancients, the term came to mean the adherence to specific academic canons.

In the theatre

Classicism in the theatre was developed by 17th century French playwrights from what they judged to be the rules of Greek classical theatre, including Aristotle's Classical unities of time, place and action.

• Unity of time referred to the need for the entire action of the play to take place in a fictional 24-hour period
• Unity of place meant that the action should unfold in a single location
• Unity of action meant that the play should be constructed around a single 'plot-line', such as a tragic love affair or a conflict between honour and duty.
• Classicists did not approve of Shakespeare,[verification needed] who constantly broke these rules.

Examples of classicist playwrights:

• Pierre Corneille
• Jean Racine

Victor Hugo was among the first French playwrights to break these conventions