The Encyclopedia of Light-mindedness: The Subtle Art of Not Taking Life Seriously

Bright clothes, sparkling laughter, fleeting beauty, and the ceaseless pursuit of momentary pleasure – light-mindedness is familiar to each of us. Condemned and celebrated, it has been a faithful companion to mankind from antiquity to the present day. The Catholic Church saw it as a mortal sin, distracting from thoughts of salvation, while great philosophers such as Voltaire and Montaigne regarded it as a divine gift, saving one from fear and despair. Finally, a touch of light-mindedness distinguishes, perhaps, every icon of style that we revere to this day, from Twiggy to Brigitte Bardot.

By immersing yourself in the gallant festivities of the 18th century, you will learn how the aristocracy elevated light-mindedness to the rank of an art of living, and how the paintings of Watteau and Fragonard celebrated its sensual grace. Why was it traditionally considered a "female" trait and how did revolutionary morality combat it? Influential historian of emotions and everyday life Sabine Melchior-Bonnet masterfully shows how the desire for play, elegance, and coquetry not only survived wars and revolutions but also became an integral part of the modern world, where the cult of consumption and momentary pleasure reigns. This profound study explores how humanity learned to balance between the vanity of existence and the thirst for happiness, and how to uphold one's personal right to small joys.