Rameau's Nephew (in a new translation by Ian C. Johnston) (eBook)

Denis Diderot, a preeminent figure of the French Enlightenment, was born on October 5, 1713, in Langres, France. He was not only a philosopher but also a prolific writer, art critic, and encyclopedist. Diderot is best known for serving as chief editor of the monumental 'Encyclopédie', which attempted to summarize all human knowledge and propagate Enlightenment ideas. His literary works often reflected his philosophical thought, characterized by skepticism, rational inquiry, and a push against traditional institutions. 'Rameau's Nephew' is one of his remarkable dialogues imbued with irony and satire, showcasing Diderot's distinctive literary style; the new translation by Ian C. Johnston brings a fresh perspective to this classic. Aside from philosophical dialogues, Diderot's oeuvre includes novels, plays, and art criticism, each contributing to his reputation as a versatile and critical thinker of his time. His works have been studied for their radical ideas and literary merit, playing a significant role in shaping modern philosophical and literary thought. Diderot passed away on July 31, 1784, in Paris, but his legacy endures as a pivotal contributor to the spirit of critical thinking and intellectual liberation that defined the Enlightenment.