Letters on England is a small collection of letters written by Voltaire (born François-Marie Arouet) in 1733 which offers a look at English society from the point of view of a Frenchman. The original Letters on England, entitled Lettres philosophiques, were written in English by Voltaire. This first edition was a rather complicated read and so in 1980 Leonard Tancock retranslated the book into English from an earlier French edition. Only a few years before the publication of Letters on England, Voltaire had been imprisoned by France and then exiled to England. This incarceration and exile was a response to satirical compositions written by Voltaire that the French political powers believed undermined their government. Despite harsh censorship laws, Voltaire still wrote many works throughout his life that critically questioned European traditions; often manifesting a rather satirical touch to the piece. He was often critical of established religion and absolute monarchy, including the close church-state relationship, expressing his disgust at their hypocritical behaviors and corruption. Voltaire's works occasionally commented on the importance of empiricism and experiential philosophy, ideas that had only just begun to gain traction in recent decades. Letters on England was Voltaire's response to what he observed during his time in England: a society with religious tolerance, moderate political power, and an emphasis on science and the arts. He saw the French government and its equally authoritative church as a persecutory tyranny, stifling the thoughts and rights of its citizens. Voltaire's writings are often said to have had a great influence on the Age of Enlightenment, especially in France and England. Indeed, the French R...... middle of paper ......In conclusion, there are many examples of how Letters on England offers modern insights into the era of the Enlightenment. Voltaire discussed in depth the religious ideals of England and France at the time, as well as the growing views on religious tolerance. He discussed the differences between English and French rule. It was discussed with great emphasis and great detail regarding the latest methods of enlightenment and learning the truths. Although Voltaire discussed many real events that occurred during the era of the Enlightenment, it should be noted that his opinions are based through the eyes of middle-class civilians. Voltaire observed what he believed was a tolerant and progressive society in England, but this opinion might have been different if he had been of a lower class. However, Letters on England is a great supplemental source for learning about the Enlightenment era.