Enlightenment Literature
The Enlightenment period, also known as the Age of Reason, was a cultural and intellectual movement that spanned the late 17th to the early 19th centuries in Europe. This period was characterized by a belief in reason, science, and the importance of individual liberty and rights. Literature of the Enlightenment reflected these ideals and was marked by a rejection of traditionalism and a focus on human reason, freedom, and progress.
In Italian literature, the Enlightenment was represented by the work of Carlo Goldoni, who wrote comedic plays that satirized the social conventions and hierarchies of his time. His most famous works include "The Servant of Two Masters" and "The Venetian Twins."
In French literature, the Enlightenment was marked by the works of Voltaire, who used his writing to criticize the Catholic Church and advocate for freedom of religion and speech. Jean-Jacques Rousseau also played a significant role in French Enlightenment literature with his work "The Social Contract," which argued that society should be governed by the general will of the people rather than by the rule of a monarch or aristocracy.
In German literature, Immanuel Kant played a significant role in German Enlightenment literature with his work "Critique of Pure Reason," which argued that knowledge could only be gained through reason rather than through religious or supernatural means.
In Spanish literature, the Enlightenment was represented by the works of Benito Jerónimo Feijoo, who wrote essays that promoted scientific thinking and critical inquiry. Other prominent Spanish Enlightenment writers include Gaspar Melchor de Jovellanos, who wrote essays on economics and politics, and José Cadalso, who wrote satirical novels that criticized Spanish society.