The ideals of the Enlightenment had a significant influence on the literary production of 1660-1798. During this period, there was a shift towards rationality, reason, and a questioning of traditional authority, which influenced the themes and subject matter of literary works. As David Hume stated in his essay "Of the Standard of Taste," "The Enlightenment emphasized the power of human reason to understand the world and to develop reasonable and just societies." This emphasis on reason led to the exploration of new ideas and the questioning of established beliefs.
One way the ideals of the Enlightenment influenced literary production was through the development of satire. Satire became a popular form of writing during this period and was used to critique and ridicule social and political institutions. As Jonathan Swift wrote in "A Modest Proposal," "I think it is agreed by all parties that this prodigious number of children in the arms, or on the backs, or at the heels of their mothers, and frequently of their fathers, is in the present deplorable state of the kingdom, a very great additional grievance." Through this satirical proposal, Swift criticizes the deplorable state of the kingdom, highlighting social and political issues.
Additionally, the ideals of the Enlightenment influenced the development of the novel as a literary genre. The novel provided a platform to explore and discuss ideas about society, morality, and individuality. As Daniel Defoe wrote in "Robinson Crusoe," "I was now above two years on this island, at the end of which, being the twenty-seventh year of my captivity, I apprehended my deliverance from this condition was at hand." Defoe's novel explores the themes of survival, individualism, and self-reliance, all of which align with the Enlightenment ideals of reason and progress.
Furthermore, the Enlightenment ideals also influenced the rise of sentimentalism in literature. Sentimental novels focused on emotions, moral improvement, and the importance of personal relationships. As Samuel Richardson expressed in "Pamela," "I cannot but delight to obey the obligations of gratitude, which my few worthy protectors have laid upon me." Richardson's novel explores the themes of virtue, moral development, and the power of personal relationships.
Overall, the ideals of the Enlightenment had a profound influence on the literary production of 1660-1798. The emphasis on reason, rationality, and questioning of traditional authorities led to the exploration of new ideas, the development of satire as a form of critique, the rise of the novel as a genre, and the popularity of sentimentalism in literature.
Respond in at least 5 sentences. The answer needs to be written in complete sentences. Include at least 1 quote from Unit 4, The Restoration and the Enlightenment, to earn full credit and support your response.
How did the ideals of the Enlightenment influence the literary production of 1660-1798?
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