Ecstasy (emotion) facts for kids

Ecstasy is a very strong emotion where someone feels incredibly happy and excited. It's like feeling pure joy and wonder all at once! The word "ecstasy" comes from an old Greek word, ékstasis, which means "to step outside oneself." This describes how people might feel so overwhelmed by the emotion that they feel separate from their usual thoughts or surroundings.

What is Ecstasy?

Ecstasy is more than just being happy; it's an intense feeling that can make you feel completely uplifted. It's often described as a moment of extreme joy, wonder, or even a sense of being connected to something bigger than yourself. When someone is in a state of ecstasy, they might feel a powerful sense of peace, excitement, and deep satisfaction.

When Do People Feel Ecstasy?

People can experience ecstasy in many different situations. It often happens during moments of great achievement or discovery. For example, an artist might feel ecstasy when they finish a beautiful painting, or a scientist might feel it when they make an important discovery.

Ecstasy can also be felt during powerful experiences like:

• Listening to amazing music that moves you deeply.
• Seeing something incredibly beautiful, like a stunning sunset or a work of art.
• Achieving a big goal you've worked hard for, like winning a competition.
• Feeling a strong connection with nature or other people.

Ecstasy in Art and History

Throughout history, artists, writers, and thinkers have tried to capture the feeling of ecstasy. You can see it in famous sculptures and paintings that show people in moments of intense emotion. These artworks often try to show the overwhelming happiness and wonder that comes with feeling ecstasy. It's a feeling that has inspired many stories and works of art because it's such a powerful human experience.

Images for kids

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  The Ecstasy of St. Theresa by Gian Lorenzo Bernini (1652). Left transept of Santa Maria della Vittoria (17th century) in Rome.

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  St Filippo Neri in Ecstasy by Guido Reni

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  Ecstasy, by Jean Benner (Strasbourg Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art)

See also

In Spanish: Éxtasis (emoción) para niños