Question

What is the primary characteristic of the "Man of Sentiment" in the 1770s?

• A. A person who acts purely based on logical reasoning and facts
• B. A person who is completely indifferent to emotions and morality
• C. A person whose conduct is influenced by emotional reactions and moral sentiments
• D. A person who is driven solely by financial gain and practicality

Answer 1

Answer:

C. A person whose conduct is influenced by emotional reactions and moral sentiments

• In this period, society valued individuals who acted on strong moral feelings, such as charity, loyalty, and love, rather than relying solely on reason or logic.

• The "Man of Sentiment" was admired for his ability to express these emotions eloquently, with the belief that his actions were guided by deep moral principles.

• However, in The School for Scandal, characters like Joseph Surface appear to be "men of sentiment" but actually only use sentimental language for self-serving purposes.

• Charles Surface, in contrast, is the true "Man of Sentiment," who acts out of genuine feelings, even though he does not express them in lofty or poetic ways.