Awe is an emotion comparable to wonder[1] but less joyous, and more fearful or respectful. However whilst we say that we feel wonder at the rainbow we do not say we feel in awe of the rainbow. In general awe is directed at objects considered to be more powerful than the subject.[2] For example, a commonly identified object that inspires awe is the Great Pyramid of Giza.
Awe is defined in Robert Plutchik's Wheel of emotions[3] as a combination of surprise and fear.
Notes and References
Approaching Awe Document
A Philosophical Inquiry into the Origin of Our Ideas of the Sublime and Beautiful, Part II, Section V.
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