Enlightenment Salon, hosted by Madame Geoffrin (that's me)
Introduction
“Literature, arts, science and philosophy were regular topics of discussion at salons, informal social gatherings at which writers, artists, philosophers, and others exchanged ideas. Salons originated in the 17th century when a group of noblewomen in Paris began inviting friends to their homes for poetry readings. Only the most witty, intelligent, and well-read people were invited to the salons. By the 18th century, some middle-class women began holding salons, where they could meet with the nobility on equal footing to discuss and spread Enlightenment ideas.” (from World History: Connections to Today by E.G. Ellis)
For this salon, you will assume the identity of an Enlightenment thinker and converse with the class about your ideas.
Preparation
1) Each guest should prepare a short autobiographical paragraph so that the hostess Madame Geoffrin (me) can properly introduce you when the salon meets on September 15.
2) Read over the wiki pages to learn about the other guests who are invited to the salon. Prepare 1-2 questions for each guest.
3) You will also be asked questions, so make sure you know your thinker well to be able to answer questions that are asked.
Examples:
What is the best form of government? Why?
Do you think men and women are equal?
Should the government control religion? Why?
Who is more important: the individual or the community?
What advice would you give to leaders today?
Enlightenment Salon, hosted by Madame Geoffrin (that's me)
Introduction
“Literature, arts, science and philosophy were regular topics of discussion at salons, informal social gatherings at which writers, artists, philosophers, and others exchanged ideas. Salons originated in the 17th century when a group of noblewomen in Paris began inviting friends to their homes for poetry readings. Only the most witty, intelligent, and well-read people were invited to the salons. By the 18th century, some middle-class women began holding salons, where they could meet with the nobility on equal footing to discuss and spread Enlightenment ideas.” (from World History: Connections to Today by E.G. Ellis)
For this salon, you will assume the identity of an Enlightenment thinker and converse with the class about your ideas.
Preparation
1) Each guest should prepare a short autobiographical paragraph so that the hostess Madame Geoffrin (me) can properly introduce you when the salon meets on September 15.2) Read over the wiki pages to learn about the other guests who are invited to the salon. Prepare 1-2 questions for each guest.
3) You will also be asked questions, so make sure you know your thinker well to be able to answer questions that are asked.
Examples:
What is the best form of government? Why?
Do you think men and women are equal?
Should the government control religion? Why?
Who is more important: the individual or the community?
What advice would you give to leaders today?