The collected works of William Hazlitt, Vol. 12 (of 12)

A richly varied anthology brings together the writer’s most lively essays, many appearing in periodicals of the early nineteenth century and several being reproduced here for the first time. Readers will wander through sharp observations on literature, politics, manners, and personal conduct, encountering pieces on everything from the quirks of public opinion to the fleeting joys of a Sunday fête in France. The collection also preserves lesser‑known sketches that reveal his wit and willingness to probe the contradictions of his age.

Beyond the historical intrigue, the essays pulse with a conversational vigor that makes them feel surprisingly immediate. Whether debating the influence of books on manners or offering candid counsel to a schoolboy, the author’s clear, incisive prose invites listeners to reflect on timeless human concerns. This volume offers a compelling entry point into a mind that shaped literary criticism and social commentary, rewarding both newcomers and longtime admirers with fresh insights and enduring charm.