Hi, I want to use the essay question "How does Volpone act as a critique of 17th century materialism?" But, I don't know what 17th century materialism is! I don't mean in terms of philosophy and Hobbes, because I don't think that really applies to Volpone. Does anyone know? I haven't been able to find a definition that doesn't have to do with consumeristic culture or philosophy, and am very confused as to what my professor is talking about. Is 17th century materialism just what materialism is today? (Meaning that it's about greed?) Please help me!! AggHHHHHHHHH PAPERSSS. Thank you.
2007-11-10 18:42:49 · 5 answers · asked by =103987tywirehgsfdg 1 in Arts & Humanities ➔ Philosophy
Seriously, if you give me a good answer, tell me your address and I can send you some money. I'm kind of...a student, so when I say money, I'm thinking $3, which is what I have in my wallet right now! Pleaaase helppp srsly I am so ******, my essay is due this tuesday!
2007-11-10 18:44:43 · update #1
btw this question was for ENGL 200B at CSULA. however, i've already written the paper. trns out my professor just meant greed, like in general.
2007-11-13 13:31:57 · update #2
I think it's about the King of England taxing the hell out of the people.
2007-11-10 18:46:03 · answer #1 · answered by Johnnny 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Materialism in the 17th century is completely different than today's materialism. My understanding of early modern materialism has always been that it refers to the idea that the universe is made up of matter in motion, and that everything in the universe is matter, a concept perpetuated by Descartes and later confirmed by Isaac Newton's science. This was the basis of the growth of reasoned and scientific religious skepticism that developed during this period, as the spirit of God was impossible to define in these terms. Materialism in regards to greed and land is a more modern viewpoint, totally separate from what "materialism" back then was thought of. How that relates to Volpone, I have no clue.
2007-11-10 18:52:44 · answer #2 · answered by Mr. Taco 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Professors are stupid aren't they. The ask the most ridiculous questions about nothing.
17th century materialism is about land. Land ownership and land acquisition. This was the period of expansion and the period where aristocracies were based on LAND.
See how that applies to Volpone!
2007-11-10 18:50:15 · answer #3 · answered by Elliott J 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
For "materialism" begin here: http://www.ditext.com/runes/m.html
As for "Volpone," he is not even listed in the Stanford Enclypedia of Philosophy, so I can't help you.
2007-11-10 19:47:35 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
um....what class is this for because I have a paper due tuesday as well and that is one of the questions.......maybe you are in my class...?
2007-11-12 09:30:36 · answer #5 · answered by joy 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋