Voltaire, a central figure of the Enlightenment, was renowned for his advocacy of reason, individualism, and skepticism towards traditional doctrines. His experiences in England influenced his views on religious tolerance and governance, while his partnership with Émilie du Châtelet marked a significant intellectual collaboration. Voltaire's later years were dedicated to writing and advocating for civil rights, leaving a profound impact on modern democratic thought.
Show More
Voltaire's mother died when he was young, leading to a rebellious spirit
Influence of Jesuits
Voltaire's education at a Jesuit-run school exposed him to classical literature and the sciences, shaping his critical thinking
Emphasis on Civil Liberties
Voltaire's education at Collège Louis-le-Grand laid the foundation for his future advocacy of civil liberties, including freedom of speech and religious tolerance
Voltaire's incisive wit and literary talent brought him fame, but also led to his imprisonment for satirical attacks on the French establishment
During his time in the Bastille, Voltaire began using his pen name and continued to challenge authority and religious orthodoxy
Influence of English Constitutional Monarchy
Voltaire's exile to England exposed him to the country's religious tolerance and the intellectual climate that celebrated figures like Newton, shaping his perspective on governance and the role of the philosopher in society
Impact on Religious Views
Voltaire's observation of religious freedom in England solidified his advocacy for religious tolerance and criticism of the Catholic Church's role in French society
Voltaire's philosophical evolution during his exile in England was reflected in his subsequent writings, advocating for a more tolerant and enlightened approach to governance and religion
Voltaire's relationship with the highly educated noblewoman was both romantic and intellectually symbiotic, with a shared interest in the natural sciences and the enlightenment of society through knowledge
Translation and Commentary on Newton's "Principia Mathematica"
Du Châtelet's translation and commentary on Newton's work was a significant achievement, and Voltaire's collaboration with her on various projects demonstrated their mutual respect and intellectual compatibility
Works on Science and Philosophy
Voltaire and du Châtelet's collaboration extended to their own works on science and philosophy, showcasing their shared passion for knowledge
Du Châtelet's death in 1749 was a significant loss for Voltaire
Despite contentious relationships with figures like Frederick the Great, Voltaire continued to travel and engage with the intellectual and political elite of Europe
Voltaire settled in Ferney, becoming a patron of the arts and an advocate for civil rights, while also continuing his prolific writing
Voltaire's return to Paris in 1778 was celebrated by the French public, but his health deteriorated and he passed away, marking the end of an era but leaving an indelible influence on the Enlightenment and subsequent intellectual movements
Voltaire's philosophical contributions were characterized by his advocacy for religious tolerance and criticism of the Catholic Church and organized religion
Voltaire's promotion of Newtonian physics and his belief in the importance of natural laws in understanding the world were reflected in his writings
While not outlining a specific form of government, Voltaire favored the idea of an enlightened monarch who would govern justly and uphold the natural rights of the people
00
The writer known as ______ was a central figure in the Enlightenment, which highlighted rational thought and individualism during the ______ centuries.
Voltaire
17th and 18th
01
Voltaire's early fame origins
Gained initial fame through sharp wit and literary skill.
02
Reason for Voltaire's Bastille imprisonment
Imprisoned for satirical critiques of French authorities.
