Letters on England is a small collection of letters written by Voltaire (born François-Marie Arouet) in 1733 which offers a study of English society from the point of view of 'a Frenchman. The original Letters on England, entitled Philosophical Letters, were written in English by Voltaire. This first edition was quite heavy reading and so, in 1980, Leonard Tancock retranslated the book into English from a previous French edition. Just a few years before the release of Letters on England, Voltaire had been imprisoned by France and then exiled to England. This incarceration and banishment was a response to satirical compositions written by Voltaire which, according to French political powers, undermined their power. Despite harsh censorship laws, Voltaire still wrote numerous works during his life that critically questioned European traditions; often displaying a rather satirical touch to the piece. He often criticized established religion and absolute monarchy, including the close relationship between church and state, expressing disgust at their hypocritical behavior and corruption. Voltaire's works occasionally commented on the importance of empiricism and experiential philosophy, ideas that were just beginning to gain traction in previous decades. The Letters on England were Voltaire's response to what he had observed during his time in England: a society with religious tolerance, moderate political power, and an emphasis on science and the arts. He viewed the French government and its equally authoritarian Church as a persecuting tyranny, stifling the thoughts and rights of its citizens. It is often said that Voltaire's writings had a great influence on the Age of Enlightenment, particularly in France and England. In fact, the French R...... middle of article ......In conclusion, there are many examples of how the Letters on England provide modern insight into the era of Lights. 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 rules. Great attention and detail was discussed regarding the most recent methods of enlightenment and learning the truths. Although Voltaire discussed many factual events that occurred during the Age of Enlightenment, it should be noted that his opinions are based through the eyes of middle-class civilians. Voltaire observed what he considered a tolerant and progressive society in England, but such an opinion might have differed had he been of a lower class. Nonetheless, Letters on England is an excellent additional source for learning more about the Enlightenment era..