Redefining Childhood in 18th-century art

In this lecture, we will discuss the transformative impact of philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau’s ideas on the portrayal of children in art during the 18th century. Rousseau’s revolutionary concepts challenged conventional notions of childhood, advocating for the innate goodness and innocence of children, as well as the importance of nurturing their natural instincts and emotions. Through an analysis of art from the era, we explore how Rousseau’s philosophies inspired artists to depict children with newfound authenticity, emphasizing their purity, spontaneity, and inherent connection to nature. Moreover, we examine the influence of these artistic representations on shaping the concept of the ‘ideal childhood,’ which emerged as a cornerstone of French revolutionary thought. By tracing the evolution of childhood depictions in art, we gain valuable insights into the intersection of philosophy, art, and societal change during this pivotal period in history.

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