Abstract

The Enlightenment universalises the rationalistic impulse to impose order onto chaos, shine light in the darkness, and substitute transparency and accountability for secrecy and mystery. Cultural critics and philosophers in the twentieth century (notably Horkheimer and Adorno of the Frankfurt School) have exposed the paradigm of the Enlightenment with its scientific principles of rationality and abstraction as well as the humanist principles of freedom and self-determination, as intrinsically power-driven and authoritarian. In the context of English drama it has been Howard Barker who has voiced similar reservations about the pseudo-humanitarian project of the Enlightenment and its continuing influence on modern society.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.