The Books that Made the European Enlightenment

This book offers a unique exploration of the European Enlightenment through twelve influential texts, revealing their cultural significance and impact on society.

In The Books that Made the European Enlightenment, Gary Kates presents a fresh perspective on the Enlightenment era, shifting the focus from traditional studies that emphasize authors and their ideas to a literary lens that encompasses the broader cultural context. Each chapter serves as a biography of a significant book, tracing its journey from inception to its impact during the revolutionary period. Through this narrative, Kates reveals the intricate connections between the publication and reception of these texts and the wider aspects of the Enlightenment, creating a rich tapestry of history that includes authors, publishers, and readers alike.

Utilizing a unique database of 18th-century editions that encompasses 5,000 titles, Kates delves into the multifaceted significance of the era's bestsellers. Key works by influential figures such as Voltaire, Adam Smith, and Jean-Jacques Rousseau are examined, highlighting the emergence of the 'erudite blockbuster.' This innovation played a pivotal role in democratizing political theory, making it accessible to the burgeoning middling classes for the first time in European history. Kates also explores the reception of these texts in European colonies, shedding light on how and why they resonated with a diverse audience.

Overall, The Books that Made the European Enlightenment is a compelling cultural history that intertwines the narratives of twelve essential books, illustrating how they shaped and were shaped by the Enlightenment's intellectual landscape. Kates' balanced approach enriches our understanding of this transformative period in European history, making it an essential read for anyone interested in the interplay between literature and ideas.