Essay Questions

Who are the heroes of the novel Rameau's Nephew, and what is their significance?

The two heroes of this novel are the narrator (Diderot) and Rameau's nephew who is the major envoy of the classicism in the melody of the occasion of Diderot. Diderot is vital in this novel because he is the one who narrates the story to the reader. He provides a vivid description of Philippe’s nephew arguing that he is among the weird creature who does not brag of his good traits but his bad ones, which make him, prefer an irregular life. The narrator further points out that when people such as Rameau's nephew appear in society, people discover their true nature. Most themes in this novel such as genius are developed through the conversations between the narrator and Philippe’s nephew. Rameau's nephew argues that geniuses are not evil people even if they appear to be so. The narrator supports his assertion by stating that there is nothing detrimental to reality.

Discuss the themes of genius and the meaning of life as they manifest themselves in Rameau's Nephew by Denis Diderot.

The author of this book portrays geniuses as misbehaved people despite their abilities to create new things. Other characters in the book believe that there is nothing wrong with a genius to do anything bad as long as he creates new things. Mr. Philosopher is of the opinion that geniuses will never be good people simply because they are largely experimental which exposes them to doing bad things. However, Rameau argues that geniuses should be creators and thoughtful people who do not do anything bad just to create new things. Mr. Philosopher further says that each person should naturally look for the denotation of his being. Mr. Philosopher continues to expound that when a person understands the meaning of his life, it is easier for him to comprehend his responsibilities in society. On the other hand, Rameau disagrees with Mr. Philosopher existing out of a way of life is itself conceit.

How does the narrator use the characters Rameau and Mr. Philosopher to develop the irony of forgetting?

The primary economic activity of Rameau is using his antics to entertain people to earn a living. He acts like a fool as long as people give him money or food. Mr. Philosopher finds it ironic that people appreciate the foolish nature of Rameau while they condemn other people who tend to have similar behaviors. He deems that human beings are likely to see other people’s lack of knowledge and lethargy because they forgive them in themselves and condemn similar qualities in others. Ironically, people are quick to adjudicate unenthusiastic traits in others, while act as if they are not noticing their own errors.