French 16: Philosophical Letters by Voltaire

What year were the letters published?

1734

Number of letters

25

What was the only real letter?

Letter to Helvetius

What were the letters about?

Voltaire’s observations of England

What are the main topics covered?

Art, politics, religion, philosophy, and science

What is this work known for? (What is Voltaire known for?)

Uses of irony and wit

What kind of thinking was Voltaire commited to?

Committed to thinking rationally, not in a prejudiced manner

What does Voltaire think about the French?

The French aren’t innovative enough regarding economic and social matters

Fun facts about Voltaire

• Optimistic regarding progress

• Developed a more critical approach to religion after rejecting it from his education

• Witnessed the change from the 17th to the 18th century (1694-1778)

• Writes letters after coming back from England

• Traveled around Europe