Study Tools
The Enlightenment (1650-1800) is guide Number 7 of the 16 SparkNotes guides for studying European History
. It describes the late 17th century and 18th century flourishing of new ideas and fresh thinking throughout Europe spurred by philosophers including John Locke, René Descartes, and Immanuel Kant and given voice in the works of Voltaire, Mozart, Goethe, and other creative geniuses. This study guide is preceded by our guide for The Scientific Revolution (1550-1700) and followed by our The French Revolution (1789–1799) guide.