Section 1
1. The text says the "Scientific Revolution largely resulted
from the work of a handful of great intellectuals." An alternative
statement would be: "Changes in European civilization encouraged
development of new ideas that became the basis for the Scientific
Revolution." Explain which statement seems more convincing
to you and why.
2. Discuss why Newton's scientific discoveries were not contradictory in his mind with a belief in God. Why did many religious leaders at that time feel that scientific discoveries threatened their beliefs?
Section 2
1. With the exception of a few individuals, why were women excluded
from participation in the Scientific Revolution? Why is denying
a group access to knowledge or the opportunity to make use of
their abilities harmful to all members of society?
2. How did Pascal attempt to keep science and religion united? Why wasn't he successful?
Section 3
1. Who were the philosophes and what were some of their ideas?
How were they different than philosophers?
2. Do you agree with the policy of laissez-faire? Why or why not?
Questions for Candide
Answer the questions and come up with one question of your
own and answer it.
Chapter 1 to 16
1. Describe Voltaire's attitude towards nobility.
2. What were some of the stereotypes Voltaire used to describe
people?
Chapter 16 to 24
1. Would you consider Eldorado a utopia? Why or why not?
2. Compare and contrast Candide and Martin's philosophies about
life.
Chapter 24 to End
1. Did Candide's character change by the end of the book?
2. What does Candide mean when he says, "we must cultivate
our garden"?
Making Connections
19.1-19.3
Candide
Outside Reading:
"The Use of Biblical Quotations in Matters of Science"
by Galileo Galilei
Eathquakes: Differing Perspectives of the 18th Century
Candide by Voltaire
Excerpt from Emile by Jean-Jacques Rousseau
Excerpt from A Vindication of the Rights of Woman by Mary
Wollstonecraft
"Treatise on Toleration" by Voltaire
Possible Essay Questions
Two of these three questions will show up on your test and
you will choose to answer one.
1. How did the Scientific Revolution fundamentally change the way humans view themselves and the world around them? Why is this shift in thought important to recognize?
2. Why was it difficult for scientists such as Pascal to keep religion and science united? Give specific examples which illustrate the growing rift between religion and science.
3. Assess the validity of the following statement: "The Enlightenment is considered a time when many thinkers based their view of the world not on traditional Christianity but on reason and natural law."
4. Why is Voltaire recognized as a prime example of the Enlightenment
thinkers?
Test Format
10 Multiple Choice (2 Points Each)
2 Essays (40 Points Each)