Diderot

Denis, de-ne de-dro' (1713-1784), a French philosopher and writer. He was born at Langres. His father gave him a classical education, designing him for the church. The young man disliked this calling, however, and was no better pleased with the law, which he tried for a short time. His father was so displeased with him that he refused further aid. Young Diderot had a hard time for many years. He married at the age of thirty, increasing his cares, with no increase in income. About the same time he began to turn his attention to literature. He wrote philosophical essays, made translations, and wrote dramas. The latter were entirely unsuccessful. Diderot's really important work was the Encyclopedie, regarded as one of the principal works of the age in France. He and D'Alembert were joint editors. Diderot wrote the articles on historical subjects, on ancient philosophy, and on the mechanical arts and industries. He revised all articles. He was fitted both by natural gifts and by education for this work, which occupied him for thirty years. Diderot was a somewhat fanatical atheist. He was desirous of converting his countrymen to his views. He propagated his ideas to some extent through his encyclopedia. Rameau's Nephew and The Nun are two of Diderot's stories. They give effective pictures of the corrupt society of the time.