Enlightenment, the philosophical and cultural movement of the 18th century, brought significant changes to the world. At its core, Enlightenment emphasized reason, individualism, and skepticism towards traditional authority. This concentrated on questioning the societal structures and established beliefs. The impact of Enlightenment ideas was not solely limited to the domains of science, politics and social reform but also made its mark in art and literature.
Enlightenment ideas in literature brought about the emergence of a distinct literary genre, the novel. The novels of this era attempted to depict human behavior rationally and realistically. The protagonists were often outcasts, pursuing their own aspirations, independent of societal norms. “Robinson Crusoe,” by Daniel Defoe, represents the theme of individualism, where the protagonist chooses self-sufficiency over societal norms. Voltaire’s “Candide” similarly critiques the concept of optimism and offers a new perspective on life. These novels were representative of the ideas of the Enlightenment and mark a transitional period in literature.
Art also underwent a significant transformation during the Enlightenment period. The most notable characteristic of the art of this time period was its secularism and departure from religious influence. Enlightenment art rejected the highly ornate and lavish Baroque style, citing it as unnecessary and against the principles of reason and simplicity. Art became more commonly available to the middle class, with the Enlightenment emphasizing education and accessibility. One of the noteworthy artists of the period is Jean-Baptiste Greuze. His paintings depicted ordinary people and domestic life in a realistic fashion with a moralizing tone.
In conclusion, the Enlightenment era served as a period of significant transformation in literature and art. It provided a new outlook towards individualism, reason and challenged the traditional beliefs and societal structures. The values of Enlightenment continue to influence the cultural and philosophical views of modern society, and its impact also extends to the contemporary art and literature.
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