Did composers of the Romantic period were reluctant to stray from the seven tones of the traditional scale?

Composers of the Romantic period were not particularly reluctant to stray from the seven tones of the traditional scale. In fact, many embraced chromaticism and explored expanded harmonic languages, incorporating altered chords and non-diatonic notes to enhance emotional expression. This willingness to experiment allowed for greater complexity and richness in their compositions, reflecting the Romantic ideals of individuality and emotional depth. Thus, rather than adhering strictly to traditional scales, Romantic composers often pushed the boundaries of tonality.