Enlightenment

Definition

The Enlightenment was an intellectual and cultural movement that emerged in the late 17th and 18th centuries, emphasizing reason, individualism, and skepticism of traditional authority. It marked a shift towards secular thought and inspired new ways of thinking about society, governance, and the role of art in expressing human experience and knowledge. This period influenced various artistic movements, reshaping the relationship between art, politics, and society.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Enlightenment encouraged the rise of secular art, moving away from strictly religious themes to explore human experience and emotion.
2. Philosophers like Voltaire, Rousseau, and Locke challenged traditional views on governance, advocating for individual rights and democratic principles.
3. The architectural style of Neoclassicism was heavily influenced by Enlightenment ideas, focusing on clarity, order, and inspiration from classical antiquity.
4. Artworks during this period often reflected themes of reason, morality, and the importance of civic virtue as society transitioned towards modernity.
5. The impact of the Enlightenment extended beyond art to influence revolutions in America and France, promoting ideas of liberty, equality, and fraternity.

Review Questions

• How did the Enlightenment influence the development of secular art during the Baroque and Rococo periods?
  • The Enlightenment significantly shifted artistic expression from religious themes toward secular subjects. Artists began to focus on individual experiences and emotions, reflecting the values of reason and humanism. This change was evident in the Baroque's grandiosity evolving into Rococo's playful elegance, where personal enjoyment and the beauty of everyday life became focal points in art.
• In what ways did Neoclassicism reflect the ideals of the Enlightenment in both art and architecture?
  • Neoclassicism embodied Enlightenment ideals through its emphasis on reason, order, and clarity derived from ancient Greek and Roman aesthetics. Artists sought to convey moral messages through their works while architects designed buildings that symbolized democracy and civic virtue. The use of simple forms and harmonious proportions in Neoclassical architecture mirrored the rational principles advocated by Enlightenment thinkers.
• Evaluate the lasting impacts of Enlightenment thought on contemporary art practices and societal values.
  • Enlightenment thought laid the groundwork for modern democratic values such as individual rights and freedom of expression, which continue to shape contemporary art practices. Artists today often explore themes related to social justice, identity, and personal narratives while employing diverse media to challenge traditional norms. The focus on rational discourse initiated by the Enlightenment remains essential in how art interacts with society, encouraging dialogue around pressing issues that reflect our collective human experience.

Related terms

Rationalism:

A philosophical stance asserting that reason is the primary source of knowledge, influencing Enlightenment thinkers to challenge established beliefs and promote scientific inquiry.

Humanism:

A cultural and intellectual movement that emphasized human potential and achievements, rooted in classical antiquity and influencing Enlightenment ideals.

Social Contract: A theory in political philosophy regarding the legitimacy of authority, suggesting that government derives its power from the consent of the governed, which became a foundation for Enlightenment thought.