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The Age of Voltaire

A History of Civlization in Western Europe from 1715 to 1756, with Special Emphasis on the Conflict between Religion and Philosophy

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The Age of Voltaire

Written by: Will Durant, Ariel Durant
Narrated by: Grover Gardner
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About this listen

The Age of Voltaire, the ninth volume of The Story of Civilization, is an in-depth examination of France and England in the first half of the 18th century. In this masterful work, listeners will encounter:

  • The English ideas that inspired the Enlightenment in France - skepticism, scientific experiment, constitutional government, "natural rights", and individual liberty
  • The salons of Paris, where the wits and thinkers of all Europe gathered to exchange ideas
  • The philosophers - intellectuals, playwrights, and poets who consulted and consorted with kings and queens
  • Voltaire himself - the incarnation of the Enlightenment and a devotee of reason who still defended religious faith
  • Mme. Pompadour, patron of the philosophers, who seduced King Louis XV and through him influenced French policy
  • The Augustan Age in English literature - Alexander Pope's poetry, Jonathan Swift's satires, and the novels of Samuel Richardson and Henry Fielding
©2015 Will and Ariel Durant (P)2015 Blackstone Audio, Inc. Europe

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Profound Discussion of Religion vs Reason

I did not expect to enjoy this read more than the others in the series since it has less focus on chronological and political history of Europe as a whole, and more on the philosophical and scientific advancement. It is centred around England, France and Germany and the progress of thought. A unique aspect of this book is that it moves through age and place along with Voltaire, which makes us feel like we are on a journey with the great philosopher. It is witty and humorous, just like Voltaire's writings. My personal favourite section was the last one, which revolves around the Philosophes, their war on Christianity and Religion, and their eventual victory. The epilogue is also a brilliant and moving discussion between Pope Benedict and Voltaire, where each tries to justify their beliefs. Last but not the least, the book succeeds in portraying Voltaire as one of the greatest individuals to have ever walked the earth. The narrator's voice fits perfectly with the content of the book, almost like we are in the presence of a Philosophe.

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