Eighteenth-century literature, also known as the Age of Enlightenment, saw the emergence of new themes and issues that reflected the changing social, political, and philosophical landscape of the time. Here are some of the key new issues:

1. Rise of the Novel:

   The novel as a literary form gained immense popularity. This new genre allowed for the exploration of individual experiences, social mobility, and psychological realism in ways that traditional forms like poetry and drama did not. Novels often focused on the lives of ordinary people and their struggles and aspirations within a rapidly changing society.

   Source: The Rise of the Novel - The British Library

2. Emphasis on Reason and Rationality:

   The Enlightenment emphasized reason and logic as the primary means of understanding the world. Literature began to reflect this by promoting critical thinking, skepticism towards traditional authority, and the importance of empirical observation. Characters often grappled with conflicts between reason and emotion.

   Source: The Enlightenment - Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy

3. Social and Political Satire:

   Satire became a prominent tool for critiquing social and political institutions. Writers used wit and irony to expose corruption, hypocrisy, and injustice within the government, the aristocracy, and other powerful entities. This form allowed for social commentary.

   Source: Satire - Britannica

4. Individualism and Self-discovery:

   There was a growing interest in the individual and their personal experiences. Literature explored themes of self-discovery, personal identity, and the importance of individual freedom and autonomy. Characters often embarked on journeys of self-improvement and moral development.

5. The Public Sphere and Print Culture:

   The expansion of print culture and the growth of a reading public led to new forms of literary engagement. Newspapers, magazines, and literary journals became increasingly important venues for writers to disseminate their ideas and engage in public debates. This contributed to the formation of a public sphere where ideas could be freely discussed and debated.

   Source: History of publishing - Britannica

6. Sensibility and Sentimentality:

   A focus on emotions and feelings became a significant aspect of literature. The cult of sensibility emphasized the importance of compassion, empathy, and emotional responsiveness. Sentimental novels aimed to evoke strong emotional reactions in readers and promote moral improvement through emotional experience.

7. The Plight of the Lower Classes and Social Justice:

   Some writers began to address the social and economic inequalities of the time. They explored the lives and experiences of the poor, the marginalized, and the oppressed, and called for social reform and justice.

8. Emergence of Female Writers and Feminist Themes:

   More women began to write and publish, challenging traditional gender roles and exploring issues related to women's education, marriage, and social status. Their works often critiqued the limitations placed on women and advocated for greater equality.