Publisher's Synopsis
Literary and Social Essays is a collection of essays written by George William Curtis, an American writer, editor, and public speaker, during the 19th century. The book is a compilation of his literary and social essays that reflect his views on various topics such as literature, politics, society, and culture.The book is divided into two parts. The first part comprises literary essays where Curtis discusses the works of various writers such as Shakespeare, Emerson, Thoreau, and Hawthorne. He analyzes their writing styles, themes, and messages, and provides his own interpretations and critiques.The second part of the book consists of social essays where Curtis expresses his opinions on various social issues such as slavery, women's rights, education, and democracy. He argues for the importance of social justice and equality, and advocates for the betterment of society through education and political reform.Throughout the book, Curtis's writing is characterized by his eloquence, wit, and insight. His essays are thought-provoking and engaging, and provide a glimpse into the intellectual and social climate of 19th century America.Overall, Literary and Social Essays is a valuable resource for anyone interested in American literature and social history, and provides a fascinating insight into the mind of one of America's most prominent writers and intellectuals.We Americans laugh at ancestors; and if the best of them came back again, we should be as likely to laugh at his wig as listen to his wisdom. And in our evanescent houses and uneasy life we would no more have ancient ranges of family pictures than Arabs in their tents. Yet we are constantly building and visiting the greatest portrait gallery of all in the histories we write and read; and the hour is never lost which we give to it. It may teach a maid humility to know that her mother was fairer.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.
