Customer Reviews

The Rise of the Public in Enlightenment Europe (New Approaches to European History)

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This is a very clearly written book that gives an overview of the development of the public sphere in 18th century Britain, France and the Germanies. Beginning with a perceptive overview of Habermas' work on the public sphere, he then goes on to give a political historical overview of Britain and France during the 18th century. The British section was of particular interest to me, as I'd never read a clearer exposition of the topic. Then there are thematic chapters on reading publics, including a discussion of literacy, libraries, and novels. The other chapters deal with authors, theater, salons, coffeehouses and taverns, and freemasonry. The role of women is brought in throughout, as one of his arguments is that women were part of the public sphere, albeit all from the educated classes. At the end of each chapter is a very useful list for further reading. The author also knows French and German and is up on the literature. This is an excellent introduction to the topic. Anyone working on this subject would do well to read the book. It could also be used for undergraduate or graduate classes in the humanities.