The Configuration of Communication Codes in Literature and Society in the Eighteenth Century from the ideals of the Enlightenment

Abstract

In this work, sociocultural communication is addressed from different literary texts and other non-literary and audiovisual testimonies relating to the eighteenth century. The epistles, engravings, polka dots, the language of the fan, courtship or courtly dance pay special attention. Most of these manifestations offer a marked female role, since some aristocrats act as true influencers of their time. In this paper we take a tour of the different manifestations through an interdisciplinary approach —also considering them as essential manners and referents of protocol and courtesy of the courtly space— in literature, history and in other arts and illustrated fields such us painting, dance and customs, as well as in contemporary literature, fashion or cinema. The vision of the functioning of eighteenth-century society in Europe and America is complemented under a current look, especially in the seventh art, where it has recently aroused greater interest.