video record
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Description
This programme comprises a dramatisation of a dinner party at the Baron d'Holbach's house in Paris in 1770. The guests are Frederick the great of Prussia, Diderot, Voltaire, Rousseau. Emile is the ...servant. The action takes place in the dining room of the house, and the conversation covers the themes of progress and civilisation. --
Metadata describing this Open University video programme
Module code and title: A204, The Enlightenment
Item code: A204; 08; 1987
First transmission date: 03-05-1987
Published: 1987
Rights Statement:
Restrictions on use:
Duration: 00:23:50
Note: The remake programme differs only from the original in that the opening V/0 by Emile has been replaced by V/0 from Tony Lentin and a couple of the opening shots have been cut.
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Producer: Paul Kafno
Contributor: Toni Lentin
Publisher: BBC Open University
Keyword(s): Civilisation; Diderot; Rousseau; Voltaire
Footage description: Scene 1 The Baron d'Holbach and his four guests are briefly introduced in voice-over by the servant Emile, who is seen serving food to each of the in turn. The party discusses a number of subjects. The conflict of ideas between Rousseau and the other Enlightenment figures over his Noble Savage is portrayed in the form of an open row. They argue about ideas of Progress and Civilisation, specifically science and the role of religion. Rousseau storms out after a rancorous dispute. -- Scene 2 The remaining members of the dinner party attack Rousseau. They then move on to consider the condition of the arts in 18th century Europe. Diderot contrasts the work of Chardin with that of Boucher. Toleration in Prussia is discussed The programme ends with a couple of salon anecdotes.
Master spool number: HOU5792
Production number: FOUA249X
Videofinder number: 2267
Available to public: no