The Illuminati was a secret society that had a significant impact on many aspects of society, including literature, philosophy, and politics. Founded in 1776, the group had a goal of promoting Enlightenment ideals and combating religious influence. Through its strategies of infiltrating powerful institutions and spreading ideas through literature and philosophy, the Illuminati had a lasting influence that can still be felt today.

Influence on Literature

The Illuminati had a significant influence on literature, particularly in Germany where it was founded. Many members of the group were writers, and they used their literary talents to spread their ideas about Enlightenment and reason. One of the most famous members was Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, who was a leading figure in the German Romantic movement. Goethe’s works, such as “Faust” and “Wilhelm Meister’s Apprenticeship,” reflect the ideals of the Illuminati and helped to spread them to a wider audience.

Another important writer associated with the Illuminati was Christoph Martin Wieland. Wieland was a prolific writer and translator, and his works were widely read and admired in the 18th century. He was also a member of the Illuminati and used his literary talents to spread its ideas.

In addition to these famous writers, many other members of the Illuminati used literature to promote their ideas. They wrote essays, treatises, and other works that helped to spread the Enlightenment ideals of reason, tolerance, and individual freedom.

Influence on Philosophy

The Illuminati had a significant influence on philosophy, particularly in the areas of epistemology and political philosophy. The group was strongly influenced by the works of John Locke and other Enlightenment thinkers, and it sought to promote their ideas in a more radical form.

One of the most important philosophers associated with the Illuminati was Johann Gottfried Herder. Herder was a German philosopher who was strongly influenced by the Enlightenment, but who also sought to push his ideas further. He was a member of the Illuminati and used his philosophical work to promote its ideas.

Another important philosopher associated with the Illuminati was Immanuel Kant. Although Kant was not a member of the group, he was strongly influenced by its ideas and helped to spread them through his work. His emphasis on reason and individual freedom was consistent with the ideals of the Illuminati, and his work helped to popularize these ideas.