Step into the tumultuous world of Jean-Jacques Rousseau, one of the most influential and controversial figures of the Enlightenment. In this revealing episode of Portraits in Time, we dive deep into Rousseau's 'Confessions,' an groundbreaking autobiographical work that laid bare the author's innermost thoughts and experiences. From his restless youth to his rise as a leading intellectual, we explore how Rousseau's personal journey shaped his radical ideas on society, nature, and human nature. Discover the lesser-known anecdotes, passionate love affairs, and inner conflicts that molded this complex thinker. Join us as we unravel the man behind the philosophy, revealing how Rousseau's raw self-examination revolutionized literature and challenged societal norms, leaving an indelible mark on Western thought.