The Uncollected Writings of Thomas de Quincey, Vol. 2

A vivid, mid‑nineteenth‑century essay brings listeners into the heated debates that surrounded Britain’s looming conflict with China. Written in 1857, the piece explores the moral questions raised by war, contrasting the British middle‑class’s uneasy conscience with the seemingly unexamined attitudes of continental powers. The author’s keen eye dissects how public opinion wrestles with notions of justice, national pride, and the ethical weight of military action.

Beyond abstract theory, the essay delves into concrete incidents—most notably the 1848 Shanghai dispute—using them as a lens to reveal the character of Chinese policy and law as perceived by a Victorian commentator. Rich, articulate prose paints a portrait of diplomatic tensions, trade grievances, and the clash of civilizations, offering listeners a compelling snapshot of a pivotal moment in imperial history.