Enlightenment Era Representations of the Nation

Abstract

The present chapter describes the various meanings attached to the term ‘nation’ during the eighteenth century and the manner in which they reflected larger Enlightenment era tendencies of thought. Insights are sought from formal works of lexicography as well as a range of contemporary studies on history, natural laws, governance, and the origin of language. Particular attention is given to the diverse ways in which contemporary authors engaged with the concept of national character.