Why does Zilia break Deterville's heart?

Introduction

In most characterizations, Enlightenment refers to philosophical innovations carried out by an elite group of men. Women were certainly the favorite topic of enlightened philosopher, whose fascination with otherness of opposite sex was an irresistible subject of contemplation. However, it is unclear to what extent women themselves have been involved in and benefit from discoveries of Enlightenment (Graffigny, 23).

Discussion and Analysis

In commentary on America in French tradition, question of how women experienced Enlightenment was inspired largely by the renewed interest in Francoise Les Lettres d'une Graffigny Peruvienne (Graffigny, 11). This text was very popular at ...