The Books that Made the European Enlightenment: A History in 12 Case Studies

Gary Kates' book uses a literary lens to offer a unique history of the European Enlightenment from 1699 to 1780, focusing on the significance of bestsellers and the rise of the 'erudite blockbuster'. It analyzes key works by Voltaire, Adam Smith, Madame de Graffigny, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, and David Hume and incorporates the responses of ordinary men and women as part of the reception histories.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 456 pages
Publication date: 08 September 2022
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Gary Kates' groundbreaking work, "The Literary Enlightenment: Europe 1699-1780," offers a fresh perspective on the European Enlightenment by employing a literary lens. Instead of solely focusing on authors and ideas, Kates delves into the broader historical context, tracing the evolution of literature during this transformative period. Each chapter serves as a biography of a book, presenting a narrative that spans from its inception to the revolutionary era. Through the lens of the book's publication and reception, Kates reveals the broader aspects of the Enlightenment era. By treating authors, publishers, and readers in a balanced manner, he bridges the gap between traditional intellectual history and book history.

Kates' book employs a unique database of 18th-century editions, encompassing 5,000 titles, to explore the multifaceted significance of bestsellers during this time. It analyzes key works by renowned figures such as Voltaire, Adam Smith, Madame de Graffigny, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, and David Hume, highlighting their contributions to political theory. Moreover, Kates emphasizes the rise of the "erudite blockbuster," a crucial innovation of the age that helped to popularize political theory among a significant portion of the middling classes.

The book also delves into the reading habits and reception of these books in the European colonies, shedding light on the diverse ways in which the Enlightenment influenced different societies. Kates incorporates the responses of ordinary men and women as part of the reception histories, providing a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the impact of literature on the Enlightenment.

In conclusion, "The Literary Enlightenment: Europe 1699-1780" by Gary Kates is a groundbreaking work that offers a fresh and original perspective on the European Enlightenment. By employing a literary lens, Kates explores the broader historical context, tracing the evolution of literature and its impact on political theory. Through a balanced approach, he bridges the gap between traditional intellectual history and book history, providing a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of this transformative period.

Weight: 704g
Dimension: 158 x 233 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350277656