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 popular 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 provides a thorough survey of the Enlightenment in Europe.