Although the existence of dictionaries and encyclopedias spanned into ancient times, the texts changed from simply defining words in a long running list to far more detailed discussions of those words in 18th-century encyclopedic dictionaries. The works were part of an Enlightenment movement to systematize knowledge and provide education to a wider audience than the elite. As the 18th century progressed, the content of encyclopedias also changed according to readers' tastes. Volumes <answer>tended to focus more strongly on secular affairs, particularly science and technology, rather than matters of theology</answer>.
How did the content of encyclopedias change in the 18th century?
tended to focus more strongly on secular affairs, particularly science and technology, rather than matters of theology