Enlightenment World

The Enlightenment World offers an informed, comprehensive and up-to-date analysis of the European Enlightenment (c. 1720-1800) as both an historical epoch and a cultural formation.

This prestigious collection begins with the intellectual origins of the Enlightenment, and spans early formations up to both contemporary and modern critics of the Enlightenment.

The chapters, written by leading international experts, represent the most cutting-edge research within the field and include:




The High Enlightenment


Polite Culture and the Arts


Reforming the World


Material and Pop Culture


Transformations and Exploration.

Covering topics as diverse as government, fashion, craftsmen and artisans, philanthropy, cross-cultural encounters, feminism, censorship, science and education, this volume will provide essential reading for all students of the Enlightenment.