Newton for Ladies (1737) – Newtonianism vs. Cartesianism
3 days ago
- #18th Century Literature
- #Gender in Science
- #Newtonianism
- Francesco Algarotti's 'Il Newtonianismo per le dame' is a dialogue converting a Marchioness from Cartesianism to Newtonianism.
- The work responds to Fontenelle's 'Entretiens sur la pluralitè des mondes', promoting Newtonian over Cartesian ideas.
- Elizabeth Carter translated Algarotti's work into English, focusing on Newton's theory of light.
- Algarotti's aim was to entertain and popularize Newton's theories, not to educate women, as seen in the playful poems.
- The text includes dedications to Lady Mary Wortley Montagu and Lord Hervey, reflecting personal connections.
- Newtonianism in the book is gendered, emphasizing light and color over mechanical theories.
- Debate exists on whether the Marchioness is portrayed as passive or as a model of curiosity and fashion.