It
was an educational read about Voltaire and Emilie du Chatelet, two French
intellectuals who had a great impact on the French Enlightenment. Specifically,
through their combined efforts, they enhanced understanding of Issac Newton’s optical
and gravitational theories, as well as inspired critical thinking about
philosophy and religion. I had previously read Candide by Voltaire and had always wanted to read more about his
life. This book satisfied a great part of that curiosity. I had not previously
heard of Emilie du Chatelet, and was glad to have learned such a lot about her
contribution to the sciences and philosophy.
Apart
from giving information about their intellectual influence on French society,
the book also offered an intimate glimpse into the personal lives and love
affair of these two distinguished individuals, and how they inspired each other
to live up to their respective ideals.
The
background is packed with historical details relating to social mores, French
court politics, class distinction, religious dogma, discrimination against
women and press censorship in pre-Revolution France.
This
was a solid 4-star read for me.
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