libertin literature

Libertine literature emerged in the 17th and 18th centuries, characterized by its bold exploration of sexuality, personal freedom, and moral skepticism. It often challenged societal norms and conventions surrounding love, pleasure, and authority. Central figures included writers like the French philosopher Denis Diderot and the English poet John Wilmot, Earl of Rochester. This genre frequently utilized wit and satire to critique the hypocrisy of contemporary morals, celebrating hedonism and individualism. Libertine literature is seen as a precursor to modern existential and libertarian thought, emphasizing the importance of personal experience and freedom in a restrictive society.