Italian literature
In 1690, the Academy of Arcadia was created with the goal of "restoring" literature by copying the simplicity of the old shepherds. In the 18th century, the political condition of the Italian states began to improve, and philosophers spread their writings and ideas throughout Europe during the Age of Enlightenment. Apostolo Zeno and Metastasio are two of the important figures of the age. Carlo Goldoni, a Venetian playwright and librettist, created the comedy of character. The leading figure of the 18th-century Italian literary revival was Giuseppe Parini.