Student Essay on The Enlightenment

The Enlightenment

Summary:   The enlightenment took a major role in the development and construction of modern Europe. During the Enlightenment, many inventions were created, new philosophical ideas were being discussed and many changes occurred in the political aspect of Europe.

The Enlightenment

The enlightenment took a major role in the development and construction of modern Europe. During the enlightenment, many inventions were created, new philosophical ideas were being discussed in massive forums by massive crowds, and now by the average citizen instead of scholars and philosophers. Many revolutions took place, politically, geographically, religiously, and demographically shifting the face of Europe. Literature and art became important and sources of power for the wealthy. Art took new form, being viewed with different perceptions and perspectives. Writers started to speak their mind, even if it meant going against their government's or even church's ideas. The enlightenment shaped the Europe we know today in four distinct and important ways.

Many changes occurred in the political aspect of Europe. Many monarchies were overthrown just to be replaced with a separate monarchy. Philosophes were born who dared to oppose the government and its ideas. Many people preached individualism and the importance of self-betterment. Others preached freedom and equality among all...men at least. Cesare Beccaria was a pioneer in literature and the opposition of the government's ideas. Her book An Essay on Crimes and Punishments was the foundation of the abolishment of heinous punishments and preaching having the punishment fit the crime.

The social atmosphere of the enlightenment ranged from both extremes. During the Glorious Revolution the social environment shifted massively from angry for the unwanted and disliked King James II to a rejoicing crowd as they instilled a parliament into action. The parliament was very effective for centuries basing the idea of involving the people in decisions and having their word matter for important decisions. This was a great step forward socially, finally being able to have the people's voices heard.

The enlightenment also had a positive impact economically. Many talented artists could make a living painting for wealthy families. Paintings were an object of power and importance, depending on how many you own. Equality being preached also gave many would-be surfs and peasants a real shot and a chance to reach their full potential. Equality and justice were not perfect, but were vastly improved upon the dark ages of centuries before. New crop rotation ideas breathed new air on agriculture that produced more crops quicker, boosting the economy. With major population boosts, the only way to feed all the people was by crops and the surplus was much needed.

Cultural ideas were shifted, the main aspect being religion. Christianity, specifically Catholicism was attacked for the first major time. People started to doubt the church, as it wasted away money on needless possessions and luxuries. Priests and even the holy pope himself were abusing their power and wealth. In 1519, Martin Luther started the Protestant Revolution by posting the 95 Theses. This paper declared the faults of the Catholic Church, stirring up controversy over the people's beliefs. The church tried defending themselves, excommunicating Luther to shut him up. This only fueled the revolution, eventually causing many people to break off into their own separate beliefs known as the Protestants.

The enlightenment did have its critics, however. Many critics believe that the philisophes teachings of rebellion and free thought ignited an anarchic force that damaged humanity's origins of authority, stability, and order. Other critics argue that the enlightenment contributed to the feeling of loneliness and lack of meaning. They believe that from the enlightenment's emphasis on individualism and personal rights, many lost the feeling of responsibility and community involvement. Other than these few bumps, the enlightenment has generated more good than bad for humanity.