18th Century Enlightenment: Art, Culture, and Thought
The 18th Century: A Time of Transformation
The Enlightenment and Preromanticism
The 18th century in Europe began under the influence of the Enlightenment, a rationalist movement that challenged existing ideas and values. This period, known as the Age of Reason, saw the rise of Romanticism in some countries during the latter half of the century.
Society and Culture in the 18th Century
Western society underwent profound social and political changes, culminating in the American Revolution (1776) and the French Revolution (1789). Absolute monarchs and the Church faced opposition from Enlightenment thinkers who advocated for education and economic reforms. England and the Netherlands experienced significant societal transformations with the growth of the urban bourgeoisie and industry, leading to social reforms and the beginnings of the Industrial Revolution.
Enlightenment Thought
The Enlightenment’s origins lie in the rationalism and empiricism of the previous century. Key characteristics of Enlightenment thought include:
- Rationalism: Emphasizing reason over tradition or faith.
- Scientific Inquiry: Focusing on scientific research and philosophy.
- Encyclopedic Knowledge: A thirst for all knowledge.
- Reformism: Advocating for political and social change.
- Social Concern: Promoting human welfare and replacing charity with humanitarianism.
- Deism: Belief in a supreme being without adherence to a specific religion.
- Utilitarianism: The belief that culture should contribute to societal improvement.
French Encyclopedism
French Enlightenment thinkers compiled their knowledge into an ambitious project, the Encyclopédie, with contributions from prominent figures like Voltaire, Montesquieu, and Rousseau. This work played a crucial role in disseminating Enlightenment ideas despite facing censorship.
Neoclassicism and Preromanticism in Art
The 18th century’s art was primarily characterized by Neoclassicism, which followed classical rules, emphasizing reason, universal themes, and didactic purposes. In contrast, Preromanticism emerged in the late 18th century, particularly in Germany and England.
The Enlightenment in Spain
The Enlightenment’s influence reached Spain later due to the country’s isolation and decline. The spread of Enlightenment ideas occurred in three phases:
- Early 18th Century: Introduction of Enlightenment ideas under Philip V and Ferdinand VI, facing resistance.
- Reign of Charles III: Protection and diffusion of reformist ideas.
- Reign of Charles IV: Backlash against Enlightenment thought due to fear of revolutionary radicalism.
Factors contributing to the spread of Enlightenment ideas included the emerging bourgeoisie, lower nobility, travel, translations, newspapers, and institutions like salons and academies. The Royal Spanish Academy played a significant role in language development with works like the “Diccionario de Autoridades.”
Language in the 18th Century
Educated individuals advocated for clear and simple language, rejecting the Baroque style. Newspapers and magazines promoted a functional and natural style. The introduction of Gallicisms sparked debates between purists and those who embraced foreign influences.