Character guide

Clotilde de Vaux

major

Beloved muse and inspiration for the Religion of Humanity.

Auguste Comte

major

Also known as Comte

Founder of Positivism and author of this work.

Humanity

major

The collective Great Being worshipped in the Religion of Humanity.

Catholicism

supporting

Also known as Medieval Catholicism, modern Catholicism

Historical religious system analyzed as a precursor to Positivism.

Communists

supporting

Also known as the Communists

Revolutionary group critiqued for their destructive tendencies.

the priesthood

supporting

Spiritual authority in Positivist society.

the proletary class

supporting

Working class seen as having aptitude for general views.

Positivism

supporting

The philosophical system presented as the final stage of human thought.

the priests

supporting

Positivist clergy guiding society.

Dr. J. H. Bridges

minor

Also known as Bridges, Dr. Bridges

Translator and commentator of this work.

The Intellect

minor

Also known as Intellect

Abstract faculty discussed in Positivist theory.

Homer

minor

Ancient Greek poet cited as an example of early art.

Communism

minor

Political ideology critiqued in the text.

Cabanis

minor

French physiologist referenced in Positivist thought.

the Economists

minor

School of economic thinkers critiqued by Comte.

Corneille

minor

French playwright cited as a model of dramatic art.

Chivalry

minor

Medieval institution discussed in relation to women.

Poetry

minor

Art form analyzed in Positivist aesthetics.

De Maistre

minor

Also known as the great De Maistre

Counter-revolutionary thinker referenced by Comte.

the Positivist

minor

Generic adherent of Positivist philosophy.

the Socialists

minor

Political group critiqued in the text.

Catholic Feudalism

minor

Also known as Catholic

Historical socio-political system analyzed by Comte.

Bonaparte

minor

Napoleon referenced as a historical figure.

Bacon

minor

Francis Bacon cited as a precursor to Positivism.

Aristotle

minor

Also known as the great Aristotle

Ancient philosopher referenced in Positivist history.

Plato

minor

Greek philosopher cited in the text.

Gall

minor

Phrenologist referenced in Positivist science.

Robespierre

minor

Revolutionary leader mentioned in historical analysis.

Charlemagne

minor

Medieval emperor cited as a historical example.

Molière

minor

French playwright referenced in art discussion.

Utopias

minor

Ideal societies critiqued by Comte.

Art

minor

Abstract concept discussed in Positivist aesthetics.