Age of Enlightenment

Definition

The Age of Enlightenment, which spanned the late 17th to the 18th century, was an intellectual and cultural movement emphasizing reason, individualism, and skepticism of traditional authority. This period championed ideals such as liberty, progress, and tolerance, profoundly influencing various fields including philosophy, science, and the arts, particularly in the development of modern theatre.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Age of Enlightenment laid the groundwork for modern democratic thought by promoting ideas about individual rights and government accountability.
2. Philosophers like Voltaire, Rousseau, and Kant were pivotal figures during this period, challenging established norms and advocating for freedom of expression.
3. In theatre, the Age of Enlightenment led to a shift away from strict adherence to classical forms and introduced new styles that emphasized realism and moral themes.
4. Gotthold Ephraim Lessing was a key figure in German Enlightenment theatre, advocating for drama that reflects contemporary social issues and encourages moral reflection.
5. The Enlightenment also inspired the rise of public theatres and increased accessibility to theatrical performances for broader audiences.

Review Questions

• How did the Age of Enlightenment influence theatrical practices during this period?
  • The Age of Enlightenment brought a significant shift in theatrical practices by encouraging playwrights to focus on contemporary social issues and moral themes. This was a departure from traditional forms that often adhered strictly to classical conventions. Playwrights began to explore realism in their works, aiming to reflect everyday life and challenge societal norms, thus making theatre a platform for intellectual discourse.
• In what ways did Gotthold Ephraim Lessing contribute to the evolution of German theatre during the Age of Enlightenment?
  • Gotthold Ephraim Lessing was instrumental in evolving German theatre by advocating for plays that combined entertainment with moral instruction. He promoted the idea that theatre should reflect real life and address contemporary societal issues. His works encouraged a break from purely classical forms towards a more naturalistic style, fostering a new wave of German drama that engaged audiences with relevant themes.
• Evaluate the broader impact of the Age of Enlightenment on society and culture beyond just theatre.
  • The Age of Enlightenment had a profound impact on society and culture, shaping modern notions of democracy, human rights, and scientific inquiry. This movement encouraged individuals to think critically about their world and question established authorities, leading to significant political revolutions such as the American and French Revolutions. The values promoted during this period fostered advancements in various fields including philosophy, science, literature, and arts, laying the groundwork for contemporary Western thought and progress.

Related terms

Rationalism: A philosophical movement that emphasizes reason as the primary source of knowledge and understanding, often contrasted with empiricism.

Humanism:

A cultural and intellectual movement that emphasizes human potential and achievements, focusing on classical texts and the study of human nature.

Romanticism: An artistic and intellectual movement that emerged as a reaction against the Enlightenment's emphasis on reason, favoring emotion, individualism, and the beauty of nature.