Age of Enlightenment

Definition

The Age of Enlightenment was an intellectual and cultural movement in the 17th and 18th centuries that emphasized reason, individualism, and skepticism of traditional authority. It marked a shift towards scientific thought, philosophical inquiry, and the questioning of established norms, which significantly influenced various fields, including art and literature, particularly reflected in the emergence of Neoclassical art that sought to revive classical ideals.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Age of Enlightenment produced significant advancements in philosophy, with thinkers like John Locke and Voltaire promoting ideas about democracy, liberty, and individual rights.
2. This period encouraged a move away from religious dogma towards secularism in both thought and art, influencing artists to focus on rational themes rather than purely religious subjects.
3. Neoclassical art, which emerged during the Enlightenment, was characterized by its emphasis on clarity, order, and harmony, drawing inspiration from ancient Greek and Roman styles.
4. The Enlightenment also led to the establishment of institutions such as salons and academies where intellectuals could gather to discuss ideas and promote cultural exchange.
5. The movement laid the groundwork for revolutionary ideas that would later influence the American and French Revolutions, promoting concepts such as equality and citizen rights.

Review Questions

• How did the principles of the Age of Enlightenment influence the development of Neoclassical art?
  • The principles of the Age of Enlightenment influenced Neoclassical art by promoting ideals of clarity, reason, and harmony that reflected the period's emphasis on rational thought. Artists sought to imitate the classical works of ancient Greece and Rome as symbols of virtue and reason. This resulted in artworks that were not only aesthetically pleasing but also conveyed moral messages aligned with Enlightenment values.
• In what ways did Enlightenment thinkers challenge traditional authorities in their writings and philosophies?
  • Enlightenment thinkers challenged traditional authorities by questioning established norms regarding religion, government, and societal roles. Philosophers like Rousseau advocated for social contracts that prioritized individual rights over hereditary privilege. This shift encouraged people to reconsider their loyalty to monarchies and churches, ultimately leading to movements that sought more democratic forms of governance.
• Assess how the Age of Enlightenment set the stage for social changes in Europe and beyond during subsequent centuries.
  • The Age of Enlightenment set the stage for significant social changes by promoting ideals such as individual liberty, equality, and rational thought. These concepts inspired revolutions in America and France, challenging monarchic rule and fostering democratic movements worldwide. Additionally, the emphasis on education and scientific inquiry paved the way for modern advancements in technology, politics, and social reform movements in the 19th century and beyond.

Related terms

Rationalism:

A philosophical approach that emphasizes reason as the primary source of knowledge and understanding, contrasting with reliance on tradition or religious belief.

Humanism:

An intellectual movement that focused on human potential and achievements, highlighting the value of human beings, typically drawing inspiration from classical antiquity.

Empiricism:

A theory of knowledge that asserts that knowledge comes primarily from sensory experience and evidence gathered through observation and experimentation.