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The Encyclopedia
(Throughout the 1700's) A woman financed the first Encyclopedia written by Denis Diderot. This held all of the information about modern discoveries about science, art, and technology. “Diderot imagined a large set of books to which all the leading scholars of Europe would contribute articles and essays” (Black & Beck 558). -
The Buzz (1700's)
“The buzz of Enlightenment ideas was most intense in the mansions of several wealthy women of Paris” (Black & Beck 558). Women started creating more of a voice for themselves. They held gatherings in their homes for journalists and others to discuss important issues. -
Early 1700's
“Three composers in Vienna, Austria, rank among the greatest figures of the classical period in music” (Black & Beck 559). Classical music was also a new and exciting addition in the Enlightenment Age. These composers were extremely talented musicians and adored by the people. -
European Authors
“A number of European authors began writing novels—lengthy works of prose fiction” (Black & Beck 559). This is one of the first times that education and entertainment have been woven into one strand. People were now writing books that others could read and enjoy. Many women wrote these novels as well which was a new idea as well. -
Respecting the people!
“Many philosophers, including Voltaire, believed that the best form of government was a monarchy in which the ruler respected the people’s rights” (Black & Beck 561). Before Voltaire, all of the common people were subject to one ruler’s ideas, rules, religion, and way of life. Many agreed that they wanted to have a voice in the government and decisions being made as well. -
Artists and Architects
“Artists and architects worked in a simple and elegant style that borrowed ideas and themes from classical Greece and Rome” (Black & Beck 559). The artists and other architects began to borrow ideas from Greece to create new kinds of Art that may bring many people together. -
Bright Future!
“Young people from around Europe—and also from the Americas—came to study, philosophize, and enjoy fine culture” (Black & Beck 558). The enlightenment was like a light bulb came on in the minds of people in all of the world. So many new ideas were being thrown at people, modern inventions being made, and common people eager to learn all they could. -
Kings accept philosopher's ideas!
“Frederick indeed committed himself to reform Prussia. He granted many religious freedoms, reduced censorship, and improved education” (Black & Beck 561). Kind Frederick was the King of Prussia. Some kings during the enlightenment age accepted the philosopher’s ideas to give liberty and rights to the people instead of merely the administration. -
Middle Class Enlightenment Philosophers
“Enlightenment ideas also eventually reached middle-class people
through newspapers, pamphlets, and even political songs” (Black & Beck 559). Many people had new ideas during this time, but the common people did not know about them. They thought it would be a good idea to get their ideas into the public’s hands to gain support. -
Freedom!
“He introduced legal reforms and freedom of the press. He also supported freedom of worship—even for Protestants, Orthodox Christians, and Jews” (Black & Beck 561). In this quote, “he” is referring to King Joseph II, who took the modern philosopher’s ideas very seriously. Joseph gave the common people freedom they had never known. Now peasants were paid cash for their work instead of slaving away for the king.
