Author
François de Salignac de La Mothe- Fénelon
1651-1715
François de Salignac de La Mothe- Fénelon (1651-1715) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
Subjects
Books by François de Salignac de La Mothe- Fénelon
Les aventures de Télémaque suivies des aventures d'Aristonoüs
"Les aventures de Télémaque suivies des aventures d'Aristonoüs" by Fénelon is a didactic novel written in the 1690s and first published in 1699. The work follows young Télémaque, guided by Mentor—actually the goddess Minerva in disguise—through adventures across Mediterranean lands including Sicily, Egypt, and Phoenicia. Through these travels, the story serves as both moral instruction and political treatise, presenting ideals of governance that contemporaries read as veiled criticism of Louis XIV's absolutism. The novel profoundly influenced Enlightenment philosophy.
Fenelon's Treatise on the Education of Daughters Translated from the French, and Adapted to English Readers
"Fenelon's Treatise on the Education of Daughters" by Fénelon is a philosophical treatise written in the late 17th century, originally published in 1688. The book addresses the often-neglected subject of female education, arguing for the importance of proper instruction for girls just as much as for boys, emphasizing their crucial role in family and society. Fénelon's work is aimed at educators and parents, advocating for a well-rounded and moral upbringing for young women to prepare them for their future roles. The opening of the treatise sets the stage for a critical examination of the conventional perspectives on female education. Fénelon argues that the neglect of educating daughters stems from societal customs and beliefs that view women as needing little instruction beyond domestic duties. He contrasts this neglect with the extensive resources dedicated to boys’ education and highlights the vital influence women have on the family and community. By presenting powerful reasoning, Fénelon insists that educating girls is essential to fostering virtuous, capable, and intelligent women who can positively impact society. His work emphasizes the moral, practical, and spiritual dimensions of education, intending to inspire a re-evaluation of the educational standards applied to girls.
Las aventuras de Telémaco seguidas de las de Aristonoo
"Las aventuras de Telémaco seguidas de las de Aristonoo" by Fénelon is a didactic novel written between 1694 and 1697. Inspired by Homer's Odyssey, it follows young Telemachus as he searches for his father Ulysses across the Greek world, accompanied by his tutor Mentor—secretly the goddess Minerva in disguise. Through their travels across Sicily, Egypt, Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Crete, the novel presents ethical discourses on the art of governing, containing sharp criticism of authoritarian rule that sparked immediate controversy upon its unauthorized publication in 1699.
The Existence of God
"The Existence of God" by François de Salignac de La Mothe-Fénelon is a philosophical treatise written during the late 17th century. The work explores the existence of God through various metaphysical and moral proofs, addressing the relationship between humanity and the divine within the context of natural observation and moral reasoning. At the start of the text, Fénelon sets the stage for his argument by reflecting on the difficulty many individuals face in grasping metaphysical truths about God. He introduces the idea that while some men may arrive at knowledge about the divine through intellectual contemplation, the greater population might more readily perceive God's existence through the observation of nature and its wonders. He emphasizes that the same aspects of nature that offer a glimpse into the divine are often overlooked due to humanity's preoccupation with worldly concerns, leading to a call for a renewed attention to the artistry of the universe as evidence of a higher power.
Lettre à Louis XIV
"Lettre à Louis XIV" by François de Salignac de La Mothe-Fénelon is a historical letter likely written in the late 17th century. It serves as a moral and political critique of King Louis XIV, addressing the nature of his governance and its impact on France and its people. The text reflects the broader themes of power, justice, and the responsibilities of a ruler towards their subjects. In this poignant and direct correspondence, Fénelon expresses deep concern over the state of France under Louis XIV, arguing that the king has been misled by flatterers who prioritize their ambitions over the welfare of the nation. Fénelon accuses the king of pursuing wars for personal glory, leading to unnecessary suffering, economic decline, and loss of trust among the populace. He implores Louis XIV to embrace humility, seek genuine justice, and prioritize the well-being of his subjects above his desire for acclaim. By advocating for peace and restitution of unjustly acquired territories, Fénelon aims to guide the king towards a more virtuous path aligned with Christian values.