Question

age of enlightenment

1. what did enlightenment thinkers question and argue against?

1. what happened in salons?

1. how did montesquieu’s ideas directly challenge the king?

Explanation:

Question 4

Enlightenment thinkers questioned traditional authority (like absolute monarchy, divine - right rule) and argued against superstition, religious dogma (especially the power of the Catholic Church over society), and the lack of individual rights and freedoms. They emphasized reason, science, and individualism, challenging the old - fashioned social, political, and religious order.

In salons (hosted by wealthy women), Enlightenment ideas were discussed. Intellectuals, philosophers, writers, and artists gathered to exchange thoughts on philosophy, science, literature, politics, etc. They debated new ideas, spread Enlightenment concepts, and fostered a culture of intellectual inquiry and social critique.

Montesquieu proposed the separation of powers (legislative, executive, judicial). In absolute monarchies, kings had concentrated power. His idea challenged the king by advocating for a system where power is divided, preventing one person (the king) from having absolute control. This undermined the king's claim to unchallenged, centralized authority.

Answer:

Enlightenment thinkers questioned traditional authority (e.g., absolute monarchy, divine - right rule) and argued against superstition, religious dogma (especially the Catholic Church's undue power), and the absence of individual rights/freedoms, emphasizing reason, science, and individualism to challenge the old social, political, and religious order.

Question 5