The Age of Enlightenment

Definition

The Age of Enlightenment was an intellectual and cultural movement that emerged in the late 17th and 18th centuries, characterized by an emphasis on reason, individualism, and skepticism of traditional authority. This period fostered new ideas about society, government, and human rights, influencing various fields including philosophy, science, and the arts, particularly evident in the works produced during the era of French Neoclassical Theatre.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Age of Enlightenment encouraged questioning established norms, paving the way for new artistic expressions and innovative theatrical forms.
2. Key playwrights of the French Neoclassical Theatre, such as Molière, Racine, and Corneille, were influenced by Enlightenment ideals that emphasized clarity, moral purpose, and adherence to classical unities in their works.
3. Enlightenment thinkers believed in the power of reason to improve society, which directly impacted the themes and characters portrayed in theatre during this period.
4. The movement laid the groundwork for modern democracy by promoting concepts such as liberty, equality, and fraternity—ideas reflected in various dramatic narratives.
5. As a result of Enlightenment thought, theatre began to serve not only as entertainment but also as a medium for social critique and moral instruction.

Review Questions

• How did the principles of the Age of Enlightenment influence the themes explored by playwrights like Molière and Racine?
  • The principles of the Age of Enlightenment significantly influenced playwrights like Molière and Racine by encouraging them to incorporate themes of reason, morality, and social critique into their works. Molière's comedies often highlighted human folly and societal hypocrisy, while Racine’s tragedies emphasized emotional depth intertwined with ethical dilemmas. Both playwrights aimed to reflect Enlightenment values in their narratives, thereby pushing audiences to reflect on their own lives and society.
• In what ways did the Age of Enlightenment contribute to the evolution of theatre as a form of social commentary?
  • The Age of Enlightenment contributed to the evolution of theatre by transforming it into a platform for social commentary where playwrights could challenge societal norms and advocate for change. The emphasis on reason allowed artists to craft narratives that critiqued political authority and social injustice while promoting ideas about human rights and individual freedom. This shift helped elevate theatre beyond mere entertainment to a space for intellectual engagement and moral reflection.
• Evaluate how Enlightenment ideals shaped the characteristics of French Neoclassical Theatre and its impact on future dramatic forms.
  • Enlightenment ideals shaped French Neoclassical Theatre by instilling a focus on clarity, order, and adherence to classical unities of time, place, and action. This emphasis on structure not only defined the aesthetic qualities of Neoclassical works but also promoted rational thought as essential in storytelling. The impact of these characteristics laid a foundation for future dramatic forms, influencing Romanticism and realism by fostering an expectation for plays to explore complex human emotions while still adhering to certain structural guidelines.

Related terms

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

Empiricism: The theory that knowledge is primarily derived from sensory experience, highlighting observation and experimentation.

Humanism: An intellectual movement that focused on human potential and achievements, valuing individual agency and critical thinking.