Enlightenment and Superstition

Perfume

The clash between rationalism and superstition in the novel, exemplified by Taillade's theory and the bishop's anathema.

increasing

Bearing strength in each event

decreasing

Taillade's Pseudoscience

Taillade's Pseudoscience Fluidum Letale Theory The marquis proposed a scientific theory that was actually nonsense. He used Grenouille as proof. Academic Acceptance The learned society of Montpellier embraced it. Reason was easily fooled. Satire of Enlightenment

The Bishop's Anathema

The Bishop's Anathema Religious Response When reason failed, the town turned to religion. The bishop excommunicated the murderer. Temporary Effect The murders stopped, but only because Grenouille had enough essences. Superstition seemed to work. Irony

The Orgy as Irrationality

The Orgy as Irrationality Collapse of Reason At the execution, both science and religion failed. The crowd gave in to primal urges. The Perfume's Power Grenouille's scent bypassed reason entirely. It was pure animal attraction. Critique of Civilization

1763

September 1765

15 April 1766