Enlightenment thought

Definition

Enlightenment thought refers to a philosophical movement in the late 17th and 18th centuries that emphasized reason, individualism, and skepticism of traditional authority. This movement encouraged critical thinking and the pursuit of knowledge, which led to significant developments in literature, politics, and science. The principles of enlightenment thought influenced public discourse and opinion through the rise of periodical essays and shaped new forms of tragedy in literature that reflected societal changes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Enlightenment thought fostered a culture of questioning established norms, leading to debates about governance, morality, and human rights.
2. The periodical essay became a popular vehicle for spreading enlightenment ideas, allowing writers to engage with the public and influence social opinions.
3. Enlightenment thinkers believed in progress and the perfectibility of human society through education and reason.
4. Bourgeois tragedy emerged as a genre that reflected the concerns of the middle class, using enlightenment principles to explore moral dilemmas and societal issues.
5. The values of enlightenment thought contributed to movements such as the American and French Revolutions, advocating for liberty, equality, and fraternity.

Review Questions

• How did enlightenment thought influence the development of periodical essays and their role in shaping public opinion?
  • Enlightenment thought emphasized reason and individual perspectives, leading to the rise of periodical essays as a means for writers to engage with contemporary issues. These essays provided a platform for discussing political, social, and moral questions, encouraging critical thinking among readers. By presenting ideas in an accessible format, periodical essays became instrumental in influencing public discourse and promoting enlightenment values among a broader audience.
• Discuss the characteristics of bourgeois tragedy as it relates to enlightenment thought, particularly in works like George Lillo's 'The London Merchant'.
  • Bourgeois tragedy emerged during the enlightenment period as a reflection of the changing social dynamics, particularly the rising influence of the middle class. In George Lillo's 'The London Merchant', themes of moral struggle, individual responsibility, and societal expectations are prominent. The play aligns with enlightenment thought by addressing ethical dilemmas faced by ordinary people and highlighting the potential for personal redemption through reasoned choices, thus elevating middle-class experiences to the level of serious drama.
• Evaluate the long-term impact of enlightenment thought on both literature and societal structures beyond its own era.
  • The long-term impact of enlightenment thought on literature is profound, as it laid the groundwork for modern narrative forms that emphasize character development and social critique. Its advocacy for reason and individual rights influenced not only literary expression but also societal structures by promoting democratic ideals and challenging traditional hierarchies. This legacy can be seen in various movements for social justice and reform throughout history, illustrating how enlightenment principles continue to resonate in contemporary discussions about equality, freedom, and human rights.

Related terms

Rationalism: A philosophy that emphasizes reason as the primary source of knowledge, often associated with thinkers like René Descartes.

Empiricism: The theory that knowledge comes primarily from sensory experience, significantly advanced by philosophers like John Locke.

Social Contract: A concept in political philosophy that explores the legitimacy of state authority over individuals and the mutual agreements that form societies.