Cours familier de Littérature - Volume 18

by Alphonse de Lamartine

"Cours familier de Littérature - Volume 18" by Alphonse de Lamartine is a literary review and philosophical discourse written in the mid-19th century. This volume focuses on the study of notable intellectual figures, with an emphasis on Aristotle and his contributions to philosophy and ethics, examining both historical context and translation issues. The opening of the book sets the stage for a deep exploration of Aristotle, beginning with Lamartine's own reflections on the philosophical landscape of his time and his encounters with Barthélemy Saint-Hilaire, Aristotle's translator. Lamartine recounts the tumultuous circumstances of the 1848 Revolution in France, which brought him to Saint-Hilaire, whose dedication to translating Aristotle sparked Lamartine’s interest. This initial section introduces Aristotle's intellectual pedigree, notably his education in Athens and relationship with pivotal figures like Plato and Alexander the Great, while hinting at broader themes of political philosophy, ethics, and the enduring relevance of Aristotle’s teachings across centuries.