The Nun

A new translation of Denis Diderot's 1775 The Nun from the original French manuscript into American English. This edition contains an afterword by the translator on Diderot's philosophic legacy, a timeline of his works and life, and a glossary of philosophic terminology utilized in his works.

"The Nun" is a famous novel written by Diderot that tells the story of Suzanne Simonin, a young woman forced into convent life against her will. The work explores themes of religious oppression, personal freedom, and the hypocrisy of the church. Diderot criticizes the rigid and oppressive institutions of his time, shedding light on the mistreatment and abuses suffered by individuals within religious orders. "The Nun" had a significant impact on discussions about the rights and autonomy of women and the need for reform within the Catholic Church. It sparked debates and controversy, with some praising its critique of religious institutions while others condemned it as sacrilegious. Notably, the novel was a favorite of French writer Gustave Flaubert, who greatly admired Diderot's portrayal of the protagonist's struggle against societal constraints.

"Herder refers me back to you with Diderot's Religieuse; he also thinks that it has either already been translated or will appear with other stories by Diderot at Easter. Accordingly, it does not seem to be a safe undertaking for us."
Goethe to Schiller