Enlightenment

Definition

The Enlightenment was an intellectual and cultural movement in Europe during the late 17th and 18th centuries that emphasized reason, individualism, and skepticism of traditional authority. This era significantly influenced various fields, including philosophy, science, and the arts, leading to new ideas about government, society, and human rights that shaped modern thought and paved the way for changes in theatre.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Enlightenment promoted the idea that human beings could use reason to solve problems, which led to a shift away from reliance on tradition and religious authority.
2. Notable figures of the Enlightenment, like Voltaire and Rousseau, wrote works that challenged existing social norms and government structures, influencing the development of modern democracy.
3. The movement had a profound impact on theatre, inspiring playwrights to incorporate themes of reason, morality, and social critique into their works.
4. Enlightenment ideas contributed to the rise of realism in theatre as playwrights began to focus on depicting everyday life and societal issues rather than relying solely on classical themes.
5. The period saw an increase in public theaters and performances as Enlightenment thinkers advocated for the accessibility of knowledge and culture to broader audiences.

Review Questions

• How did the Enlightenment influence the themes and styles of theatre during the 18th century?
  • The Enlightenment had a significant impact on theatre by introducing themes centered around reason, morality, and social critique. Playwrights began to move away from purely classical themes towards narratives that reflected contemporary social issues. This shift allowed for a more realistic portrayal of characters and situations on stage, encouraging audiences to engage with the moral dilemmas presented in plays.
• Evaluate the contributions of notable playwrights during the Enlightenment in shaping modern theatrical practices.
  • Playwrights like Voltaire, Molière, and Beaumarchais were pivotal during the Enlightenment as they challenged societal norms through their works. Their use of satire highlighted issues such as government corruption and social injustice. By addressing real-life issues in their plays, they set a foundation for realism in theatre and encouraged future generations to explore complex characters and societal themes rather than relying solely on mythological or historical stories.
• Analyze the lasting impact of Enlightenment ideals on contemporary theatre practices and how they reflect societal values.
  • The Enlightenment's emphasis on reason, individualism, and critical thinking continues to resonate in contemporary theatre practices. Modern plays often address societal issues, challenge authority, and explore human rights—echoing the foundational principles established during this period. The influence of Enlightenment thinkers on notions such as democracy and personal freedom is evident in today's theatrical narratives that advocate for social change and reflect diverse perspectives within society.

Related terms

Rationalism: A philosophical belief that reason is the primary source of knowledge and that it can lead to understanding and truth.

Social Contract: A theory in political philosophy that suggests individuals consent, either explicitly or implicitly, to form a society and government in exchange for protection of their rights.

Satire: A genre of literature that uses humor, irony, or ridicule to criticize or mock societal norms and political structures.