Charles Pinot Duclos, a humanitarian view of man's social role in the eighteenth century

Abstract

The introduction indicates the place occupied by Charles Pinot Duclos in the development of ideas expressed in eighteenth-century literature, and refers to the subjects to be discussed in the thesis. Chapter One puts forward Duclos's attitude towards religion, and examines the role of the Church within society. This chapter seeks to define Duclos's view of the human condition, and to demonstrate the link between his definition of virtue and man's quest for personal happiness. Chapter Two examines the position of women in society, and discusses the issue of virtue in relation to chastity. This chapter studies the socialresponsibilities of the individual with reference to sensibility, intelligence and social rank. Chapter Three addresses the issue of education in relation to gender and class. This chapter discusses the aims of different types of education, and raises criticisms of the educational system in the eighteenth century. Chapter Four examines the changes within society brought about by redistribution of wealth and by intermarriage between social classes. It describes the social positions afforded by various careers, and discusses the institution of marriage with reference to passion and reason. This chapter investigates the issue of female emancipation in the eighteenth century. Chapter Five seeks to define the place occupied by men of letters in theeighteenth century, and discusses their literary and social responsibilities. This chapter appraises Duclos's literary role and achievements; it studies the relationship between the writer and the reading public; and assesses the influence of the salons. The conclusion evaluates the extent of Duclos's skills as a writer, and defines the limits of his observations. It summarizes his analysis of man's social role with respect to the individual and to the community, and evaluates the humanitarian character of Charles Pinot Duclos.