18th-century Enlightenment period
Definition
The 18th-century Enlightenment period refers to a cultural and intellectual movement that took place in Europe during the 18th century. It emphasized reason, science, and individualism as opposed to traditional authority.
Analogy
Think of the 18th-century Enlightenment period as a bright light bulb illuminating Europe's ideas and challenging old ways of thinking, like switching from candles to electricity.
Related terms
Scientific Revolution: A period of scientific advancements during the 16th and 17th centuries that laid the foundation for the Enlightenment by promoting empirical observation and experimentation.
Philosophes: Intellectuals during the Enlightenment who advocated for reason, progress, tolerance, and individual freedom through their writings and ideas.
Salons: Informal gatherings hosted by influential women in their homes where intellectuals would discuss philosophical and political ideas.
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