Introduction to "Great Expectations: Futurity in the Long Eighteenth Century"

"Great Expectations: Futurity in the Long Eighteenth Century" is a comprehensive examination of cultural, philosophical, and literary anticipations of the future during the period famously known as the long eighteenth century, which stretches roughly from 1660 to 1830. Editors Mascha Hansen and Jürgen Klein collate a diverse array of scholarly insights that illuminate how notions of the future shaped the intellectual, social, and economic landscapes of the era.

Detailed Summary of the Book

This volume embarks on a journey through time to explore how the eighteenth century's thinker and literary figures grappled with the concept of the future. The book delves deeply into themes of progress, technological advancement, and societal change, reflecting the era's optimism and curiosity. It critically examines the interplay between emerging scientific ideas and creative narratives that envisioned what the years ahead might hold.

The contributions within the book are organized into thematic sections, each addressing different aspects of futurity, such as utopian aspirations, economic forecasts, and the ideation of political systems. Scholars investigate the ways authors and philosophers from the Enlightenment and beyond perceived and shaped futuristic thought. This synthesis of historical context and literary analysis offers a richly textured understanding of how the past imagined the future.

Key Takeaways

• The eighteenth century marked an era of significant speculation about the future, influenced by scientific and philosophical advancements.
• Literature and philosophy were key mediums through which people of the time explored ideas about societal progress and change.
• The Enlightenment spirit fostered a duality of optimistic futures and dystopian warnings, reflecting both hope and caution in the face of change.
• Understanding historical perceptions of the future provides valuable insights into contemporary attitudes towards progress and innovation.

Famous Quotes from the Book

"The future, for the enlightened minds of the eighteenth century, was both a canvas for utopian visions and a mirror reflecting the anxieties of their present." - Mascha Hansen

"Through their writings, thinkers of the era strove to harmonize the nascent ideas of progress with the enduring values of their cultural heritage." - Jürgen Klein

Why This Book Matters

"Great Expectations: Futurity in the Long Eighteenth Century" is crucial for historians, literary scholars, and anyone interested in the interplay between past and future. It is more than a collection of essays; it serves as a portal to understanding how the hopes, dreams, and fears of yesterday influence our present and shape our future. This book sheds light on the enduring human tendency to project into the future and addresses how the cultural and intellectual currents of centuries ago continue to resonate today. By engaging with the ideas presented, readers can appreciate the lineage of thought that informs current discussions about innovation, progress, and societal change.