Author

Arthur Helps

1813-1875

Arthur Helps (1813-1875) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.

Wikipedia

Subjects

Books by Arthur Helps

Friends in Council — First Series

"Friends in Council — First Series" by Sir Arthur Helps is a philosophical work presented in the form of essays and discussions, likely written in the mid-19th century. The narrative revolves around the interactions and reflections of a group of intellectual friends—Milverton, Ellesmere, and Dunsford—who engage in deep conversations about various topics, including truth, conformity, greatness, and human nature, reflecting on their lives, experiences, and philosophies. At the start of the book, the narrator expresses his joy at reconnecting with his former pupils, Milverton and Ellesmere, in an intellectual setting after years of solitude. The conversation begins with Milverton presenting an essay on truth, where he explores its complexity and importance in human interactions. The friends discuss the nuances of truth-telling, self-reflection, social relations, and the moral obligations that come with honest communication. As the narrative unfolds, the characters delve into various philosophical essays that provoke thought on broader themes like conformity, despair, and the essence of greatness, all while reflecting on their past and the growth they've experienced as individuals.

The Life of Columbus

"The Life of Columbus" by Sir Arthur Helps is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book explores the life and expeditions of Christopher Columbus, focusing on his motivations, challenges, and the significant impact of his discovery of the New World. It presents an analysis of Columbus's character and the various events that led to his historic voyages. At the start of the text, the author provides a context for Columbus's discoveries, illustrating the trepidations faced by early explorers and the mythic aspirations that drove them to sail into uncharted waters. The opening portion outlines the conditions in the 15th century that fueled the desire for exploration, such as the quest for wealth and the spread of Christianity, alongside the challenges linked to the limited understanding of navigation and geography at the time. Sir Arthur Helps hints at the contrasting nature of Columbus— a tenacious believer driven by religious fervor, yet unyielding in his pursuit of the unknown, setting the stage for a deeper examination of his monumental role in world history as the narrative unfolds.

The Claims of Labour: An essay on the duties of the employers to the employed

"The Claims of Labour: An Essay on the Duties of the Employers to the Employed" is an essay written in the mid-19th century that discusses the responsibilities of employers toward their employees. The text delves into the evolving relationship between workers and their employers, emphasizing the duty of the latter to safeguard the welfare and dignity of the labouring classes. It addresses the pressing social issues of its time, particularly concerning the living and working conditions of the working people. The opening of the essay establishes its foundational ideas by framing the employer-employee relationship as a vital yet often misunderstood dynamic in society. The author reflects on the social changes occurring at the time, pointing out the declining closeness between employers and employees and the increased need for benevolence and moral responsibility in such interactions. Through various examples and philosophical reflections, the author argues that understanding these duties is essential in creating a harmonious society, calling for employers to recognize their roles in improving the conditions for the labourers they depend upon.