During the Enlightenment, the literary form that became particularly prominent was the essay. This period marked a significant shift in the way people thought about literature and its role in society.
The essay allowed writers to explore individual ideas and arguments in a way that was accessible to a wider audience. Thinkers like Voltaire, Rousseau, and Montesquieu utilized the essay as a tool for social critique and philosophical exploration. This form empowered writers to present their insights on reason, nature, and human rights, contributing to the overall pursuit of knowledge and progress characteristic of the Enlightenment.
Furthermore, the essay encouraged rational discourse and the sharing of ideas, which were essential in challenging traditional authority and advocating for reforms in various aspects of life, from politics to education. Through this literary form, the Enlightenment thinkers laid the groundwork for modern democratic thought and the value of individualism.