“We don’t read and write poetry because it’s cute. We read and write poetry because we are members of the human race. And the human race is filled with passion.”

The quote above is from Dead Poets Society, also known as the staple film of Dark Academia. It is said by Welton Academy’s very own English teacher, John Keating. Keating’s non-traditional teaching style ends up motivating his students much more than others could.

What sets him apart is the fact that he asks his students to consider their own passions and inherent worth. From inspiring movies such as this one, why are English Literature, History and Classics majors which are commonly associated with this aesthetic only praised on social media?

Social Media’s Presence

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There has been a recent hive mind of teenagers that are drawn to this subculture, one that promotes an academic lifestyle. Coincidentally enough, this specific group often ends up sharing about the Dark Academia aesthetic on social media, mostly on TikTok and Instagram. Dark Acadamia is a popular academic aesthetic that revolves around classic literature, the pursuit of self-discovery and a general passion for knowledge and learning. This internet aesthetic actively encourages the sharing of photographs, making outfits, and participating in certain hobbies through social media.

What fascinates me is the fact that if an English Literature major were to tell someone what they’re studying — the reaction they’d receive would end up differing depending on which side of the internet the person they’re speaking to is on. With most of the focus and funding going to STEM majors, young students may feel pressured and think that STEM subjects are the only ones to get a degree in.

What most people don’t understand is the fact that the world cannot live without the Humanities. Through the help of literature and film, which has been brought to light thanks to social media, there has been an increase of appreciation for the Humanities, as well as inspiring people to strive towards their true passions.

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Back to the Past

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A subculture which promotes and encourages a deep understanding of higher education, the arts and literature feels like a modern day attempt in reviving a simpler time. One in which people went to university for their thirst for knowledge in their chosen field and not just to get a degree that paid well. To blend in, fans of this style can also be seen wearing earthly and muted colours and clothing items such as coats, blazers and turtlenecks. While it doesn’t have a specific era, these elegant dressers are simply showing off the timeless elegance of the past.

Contrasting this, the time we live in is flooded with new technologies, developments and digital media. As a result, more and more people are noticeably turning back to the old days. Nowadays every medium is getting digitalised, but not everyone agrees with these changes.

Some rebel against this by owning more physical media, even if it is only for the aesthetic. After all, a physical copy of The Secret History gives off a different vibe than that of a Kindle. Books aren’t the only things facing a revival: journaling has also gotten a lot more hype on social media, with an emphasis on it being in a personalised notebook. With this, it appears as if the romanticisation of the past is still going strong.

Unique Customisation of Places

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While universities are the main place to be for Dark Academia enthusiasts, they can also be found elsewhere. Libraries are a crucial source for acquiring knowledge and they are also visually pleasing. Especially those which take after Gothic architecture.

Although fewer people seem to go to libraries, they are not dying out. There are several articles and videos dedicated towards people decorating a room in their house so it reminds them of these beautiful Oxford-esque libraries. Libraries are generally a staple for free and accessible books to be available to a wider audience. Although this aesthetic is mainly about elite universities, it isn’t limited to only elite students. Anyone can be a part of it if they have a strong love for the arts and literature which was more prominent in the past. This type of expression and individualism can encourage others to do the same.

Bonds, Communities and the Importance of Support

Fans of Dark Academia are a joy to see as they are usually people that crave deeper, more philosophical discussions and aren’t afraid to share. In a time where convenience and anti-intellectualism is on the rise, these kinds of people are a sight for sore eyes. Students, teachers and professors alike are so enthusiastic about their work.

What sets Humanities apart is the tight, close knit bonds that tend to form during their time together. It can be described as a time capsule of creativity, empathy and mutual understanding that cannot be seen just anywhere. Whenever people have similar ideas, they tend to develop a personal and deep connection to each other. Now imagine an entire room of people that are all on the same wavelength. It’s no surprise that, while the numbers might be decreasing, Humanities will not be given up easily. Especially with Gen z’s special connection to Dark Academia and all that it has to offer. A community of like-minded people that tend to support each other and grow together seems like a great community to be involved in.

All in All

In a busy and hectic world, people (especially teenagers) crave a place in which they can leave their own legacy behind and feel safe to express themselves. As a result, young people feel drawn to the Dark Academia aesthetic that Humanity subjects provide. Whether they find out about it on their own or have an encouraging teacher to guide them on their way, one thing remains certain — nobody would go into the Humanities if they weren’t truly passionate about their subject.

The enthusiasm of Humanities majors is genuinely contagious and it’s no surprise that a young audience of students have developed a deep appreciation for Dark Academia and all that it entails. This wave of poetry-loving, intelligence-craving and ever-learning teenagers have a powerful say in the amplification of passion over practicality.