E.H. Gombrich 'A Little History of the World' 33. A Truly New Age

Kent Kently
18 Jan 201713:39
EducationalLearning
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TLDRChapter 33 of 'A Little History of the World' paints a vivid picture of the transformative period post-1700, marked by the rise of the Enlightenment. The chapter contrasts the archaic beliefs and practices of earlier times, such as the persecution of witches and the acceptance of slavery, with the progressive ideas that began to take root. These new principles of tolerance, reason, and humanity were championed by intellectuals and rulers alike, leading to significant reforms in governance, justice, and social norms. Notable figures like Frederick the Great of Prussia and Empress Maria Theresa of Austria are highlighted for their contributions to this era of change. The chapter also touches upon the American struggle for independence and the founding principles of liberty and equality, while acknowledging the paradox of continued slavery. This period saw a shift from superstition to a reliance on reason and scientific inquiry, leading to a more humane and equitable society.

Takeaways
  • 🎓 The Enlightenment was a period where reason and tolerance were promoted as fundamental principles, leading to significant societal changes.
  • 🗣️ People of the time used Latin and French extensively in their speech, and their views on social issues were often harsh and prejudiced.
  • 👑 Frederick the Great, King of Prussia, was a proponent of Enlightenment ideas and worked to implement them, aiming to make Prussia a model state.
  • 🛡️ Maria Theresa of Austria, despite being at war with Frederick, also adopted many of his reforms, showing a strong commitment to the well-being of her subjects.
  • 🌟 The Enlightenment thinkers believed in the power of reason to explain the workings of the universe and to unite people, regardless of religious differences.
  • 🚫 Torture and other inhumane practices were abolished as part of the push for a more humane and just society.
  • 📚 Education was emphasized as a key to understanding right from wrong, and it was believed that everyone should have access to it.
  • 🧐 The Enlightenment led to a greater focus on scientific investigation and the rejection of superstition as a way to understand and improve the world.
  • 🇺🇸 In America, the fight for independence from Britain was also influenced by Enlightenment ideas, with the founding principles of the new state being liberty and equality.
  • 🤔 The script highlights the contradictions of the time, such as the persistence of slavery despite the promotion of equality and human rights.
  • ⏳ The changes brought about by the Enlightenment were not immediate and required courage, self-sacrifice, and perseverance from those advocating for them.
Q & A

  • What significant change in societal views began after 1700?

    -After 1700, there was a gradual shift towards more tolerance and reason, with people questioning the importance of judging others based on their religious beliefs and advocating for the principle of tolerance, especially in matters of religion.

  • What was the principle of tolerance associated with during the Enlightenment?

    -The principle of tolerance was associated with the idea that religious beliefs should be respected and not subject to rational argument, as well as the belief that all people are of equal worth and should be treated equally.

  • How did the Enlightenment thinkers view the use of reason?

    -Enlightenment thinkers viewed reason as a universal gift to all mankind, which could be used to understand the workings of nature and the universe. They believed that reason could unite all people and that it should be used to argue for the righteousness of opinions.

  • What was Frederick the Great's attitude towards the German language and customs?

    -Frederick the Great scorned the German language and customs, which he believed were in a poor state due to the 30 Years War. He aimed to make Prussia a model state, influenced by the ideas of the Enlightenment and French culture.

  • What reforms did Frederick the Great introduce in Prussia?

    -Frederick the Great abolished the practice of torture, relieved peasants of some of their heavier duties, and ensured that all subjects, regardless of status, received equal justice. He also aimed to make Prussia one of the mightiest German states.

  • How did Empress Maria Theresa respond to Frederick the Great's invasion of Silesia?

    -Empress Maria Theresa, although not a warmonger, proved to be a formidable opponent to Frederick the Great. She introduced many of his reforms in Austria, such as abolishing torture, improving the lives of peasants, and establishing good education throughout the land.

  • What was the significance of Maria Theresa's marriage alliance with France?

    -Maria Theresa's marriage of her daughter Marie Antoinette to the future King Louis XVI of France symbolized a new friendship between Austria and France, which had previously taken sides against the Empire.

  • How did the Enlightenment ideas influence the American colonies' struggle for independence?

    -The Enlightenment ideas influenced the American colonies' struggle for independence by providing a foundation for their declaration of sacred rights to liberty and equality, which became the founding principles of their new state.

  • What was the status of Negro slaves in the American colonies after the declaration of independence?

    -Despite the declaration of liberty and equality, the life of Negro slaves on the plantations continued as before, with no immediate change in their status.

  • What was the role of Benjamin Franklin in the American struggle for independence?

    -Benjamin Franklin was a leader in the American struggle for independence. He was an ordinary citizen with a passion for studying the natural sciences, and he played a significant role in organizing the British colonies into a confederation that eventually drove the British soldiers from their shores.

  • How did the Enlightenment ideas contribute to the improvement of human rights and societal norms?

    -The Enlightenment ideas contributed to the improvement of human rights and societal norms by advocating for tolerance, reason, and humanity. This led to the abolition of practices like torture, the recognition of equal rights for all citizens, the end of serfdom, and a greater focus on education and scientific investigation.

Outlines
00:00
🗣️ The Shift to Tolerance and Reason

This paragraph introduces a historical perspective on societal views and practices from the time of the Turkish siege, highlighting the stark contrast with modern sensibilities. It describes the language, habits, and beliefs of a gentleman from that era, including his views on corporal punishment, marriage, social hierarchy, and justice. The narrative then transitions to the gradual shift in attitudes post-1700, emphasizing the principle of tolerance in religious matters and the growing importance of reason and rationality. The Enlightenment's influence on promoting equality, human rights, and dignity is also discussed.

05:04
💡 The Enlightenment: Dispelling Superstition with Reason

The second paragraph delves into the Enlightenment, a period where thinkers strove to replace superstition with rational thought. It acknowledges that while some Enlightenment ideas seem obvious today, they were revolutionary at the time and required significant courage to propagate. The paragraph outlines the progression of scientific inquiry and the impact of the Enlightenment on legal and societal reforms, such as the abolition of torture, improved conditions for peasants, and the establishment of equal justice. It also highlights the role of European rulers like Frederick the Great in advancing these ideas.

10:04
🌟 The Struggle for Enlightenment Ideals in Europe and America

The final paragraph contrasts the military and political ambitions of Frederick the Great with the maternal governance of Maria Theresa and her son Joseph II. It details Frederick's efforts to modernize Prussia and his military campaigns, as well as Maria Theresa's unexpected competence as a ruler and her adoption of Enlightenment reforms. The narrative then shifts to the American struggle for independence, led by Benjamin Franklin and George Washington, and the adoption of Enlightenment principles in the founding of the United States, while also noting the ongoing plight of Negro slaves.

Mindmap
Keywords
💡Tolerance
Tolerance refers to the acceptance and respect for the beliefs, practices, and opinions of others, especially when they differ from one's own. In the context of the video, it is a fundamental principle of the Enlightenment, advocating for mutual respect and the coexistence of diverse beliefs and opinions. The video illustrates this through the shift in societal attitudes post-1700, where people began to question the righteousness of religious persecution and instead promoted the idea of living harmoniously despite differences in beliefs.
💡Reason
Reason is the capacity for logical thinking and sound judgment, often associated with the Enlightenment's emphasis on using rational thought to understand the world and guide actions. The video highlights reason as a unifying force that can persuade others and lead to the betterment of society. It is exemplified by the scientific method and the pursuit of knowledge, as seen in the works of Galileo and the broader scientific community of the time.
💡Human Dignity
Human dignity is the concept that every individual inherently deserves respect and fair treatment, regardless of their actions or status. The video discusses this principle in the context of criminal justice reform, where the use of torture and public humiliation was seen as a violation of a person's dignity. It is linked to the broader theme of the Enlightenment, which sought to elevate the worth and rights of every human being.
💡Enlightenment
The Enlightenment was an intellectual and philosophical movement in the 17th and 18th centuries that emphasized the use of reason and individualism, and opposed superstition and arbitrary authority. The video describes it as a period when ideas of tolerance, reason, and humanity were debated and adopted, leading to significant societal and political reforms. It is portrayed as a 'truly new age' that sought to dispel the 'darkness of superstition' with the 'light of Reason'.
💡Frederick the Great
Frederick the Great was the King of Prussia known for his military prowess and his support for Enlightenment ideas. The video mentions him as one of the first European rulers to champion the Enlightenment, implementing reforms such as the abolition of torture and striving to create a model state. His reign and actions serve as an example of the practical application of Enlightenment principles in governance.
💡Maria Theresa
Maria Theresa was the Empress of Austria who, despite being at odds with Frederick the Great, also embraced many Enlightenment reforms. The video portrays her as a formidable opponent who, like Frederick, abolished torture and sought to improve the lives of her subjects. Her rule and the reforms she introduced are highlighted as significant in the broader context of the Enlightenment's impact on European governance.
💡Emperor Joseph II
Emperor Joseph II was Maria Theresa's son and successor, known for his zealous pursuit of Enlightenment ideals. The video describes his rule as a time when tolerance, reason, and humanity were paramount, leading to the abolition of the death sentence and serfdom, and the allowance of free worship for Protestants. His actions are presented as an extension of the Enlightenment's influence on European monarchs.
💡Benjamin Franklin
Benjamin Franklin was a leading figure in the American Enlightenment and a key contributor to the American Revolution. The video notes his role as a scientist, inventor of the lightning conductor, and a statesman who helped organize the British colonies into a confederation. His contributions are emblematic of the Enlightenment's emphasis on science, reason, and the pursuit of liberty.
💡George Washington
George Washington was a military leader and one of the Founding Fathers of the United States. The video highlights his leadership in the fight for American independence and the establishment of a new state founded on the principles of liberty and equality, which were central to the Enlightenment philosophy.
💡Negro Slaves
The term 'Negro slaves' in the video refers to the African individuals who were enslaved and brought to America. The video points out the paradox that while the American colonies fought for their own liberty, the institution of slavery persisted, indicating a significant moral and social issue that was not yet addressed by the Enlightenment ideals of equality and freedom.
💡30 Years War
The 30 Years War was a major conflict in Europe that took place between 1618 and 1648. The video mentions this war as a backdrop to the devastation and suffering that led to a reevaluation of religious intolerance and the eventual rise of Enlightenment thinking. It serves as a historical context that underscores the need for the principles of tolerance and reason that the Enlightenment would later promote.
Highlights

The widespread suffering during the Wars of Religion led to a questioning of judging people by their religion, and a focus on being good and honest human beings.

The principle of tolerance in matters of religion was a key idea, with the belief that religious beliefs should be respected and not subject to rational argument.

Reason and sound common sense were seen as the most important things, with the belief that differences of opinion could be resolved through rational argument.

The works of ancient Greeks, Romans and Renaissance thinkers like Galileo rediscovered the power of reason in understanding nature and the universe.

All people were seen as fundamentally equal, endowed by God with reason, and deserving of equal treatment and respect for their rights.

Children should be taught with reason, not physical punishment, to understand the difference between right and wrong.

Criminals were seen as human beings who could be helped to mend their ways, rather than permanently branded as criminals through physical punishment.

The concept of human dignity was emphasized, arguing against public humiliation as a form of punishment.

The Enlightenment aimed to combat superstition with the light of reason, leading to significant advances in science and a more humane society.

The Enlightenment principles of tolerance, reason and humanity have had a lasting impact on modern society.

Frederick the Great of Prussia was an early ruler who embraced Enlightenment ideas and worked to implement them in his kingdom.

Frederick abolished torture, improved the lives of peasants, and emphasized equal justice for all in his efforts to create a model state.

Empress Maria Theresa of Austria was a formidable opponent who also adopted many Enlightenment reforms, despite being at war with Frederick.

Maria Theresa's son Joseph II continued the spread of Enlightenment ideas in Austria, abolishing the death penalty and serfdom and promoting religious tolerance.

The American Revolution was influenced by Enlightenment ideas, with leaders like Benjamin Franklin and George Washington advocating for liberty and equality.

The founding principles of the United States emphasized the sacred rights of all men to liberty and equality, although the status of slaves was not immediately addressed.

Transcripts

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Enlightenment EraSocial ReformToleranceReasonHuman RightsHistorical PerspectiveCultural ShiftEuropean HistoryFrederick the GreatMaria TheresaAmerican Revolution