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Walpole, Horace, 1717-1797 -- Correspondence Books
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Horace Walpole
The Letters of Horace Walpole, Earl of Orford — Volume 1
"The Letters of Horace Walpole, Earl of Orford — Volume 1" by Horace Walpole is a collection of letters and correspondences written in the 18th century. This volume includes a series of insightful letters spanning from 1735 to 1748, chronologically presenting not only Walpole's personal anecdotes and cultured observations but also offering glimpses into the political landscape of his time. The letters reveal Walpole's interactions with notable figures and provide a lively commentary on historical events, societal norms, and cultural nuances. At the start of the volume, readers are introduced to the structure of the work, which contains a mix of letters and 'Reminiscences of the Courts of George the First and Second,' alongside a preface outlining the collection's significance and context. The opening section begins to explore Walpole’s reflections on university life, his examinations of contemporaneous politics, and insights into historical figures such as George I and George II, establishing the dynamic atmosphere of court life. Through his eloquent and often witty prose, Walpole sets the tone for a detailed exploration of the British aristocracy's intricacies and the broader social fabric of 18th-century England.
Horace Walpole
The Letters of Horace Walpole, Earl of Orford — Volume 2
"The Letters of Horace Walpole, Earl of Orford — Volume 2" by Horace Walpole is a collection of personal correspondence written during the mid-18th century. This volume spans letters covering significant events and social dynamics of the time, revealing Walpole's observations on both the political landscape and cultural life of his era. The letters reflect themes of governance, society, and personal anecdotes, providing insights into the intricate relations among prominent figures of the period. At the start of this volume, Walpole communicates with Sir Horace Mann from his residence, Strawberry Hill, reflecting on the recent parliamentary sessions and his reactions to the aftermath of a peace treaty. He discusses the turbulence within the government, particularly the formidable opposition led by the Prince, and shares accounts of various public festivities, such as jubilee celebrations and firework displays. Through a blend of political commentary, personal reflections, and vivid descriptions of social events, the opening letters illustrate not only the political intrigues of the time but also the culture of celebration and spectacle that characterized Walpole's social milieu.
Horace Walpole
The Letters of Horace Walpole, Earl of Orford — Volume 4
"The Letters of Horace Walpole, Earl of Orford — Volume 4" by Horace Walpole is a collection of letters penned by the renowned English author and politician during the late 18th century. This volume spans the years from 1770 to 1797 and includes various letters that offer insight into Walpole's thoughts on politics, society, and culture in Britain and abroad, showcasing his wit and literary style. At the start of this volume, Walpole writes to Sir David Dalrymple, expressing his appreciation for Dalrymple's "History of Scottish Councils," which he finds more engaging than expected. He reflects on the contentious political atmosphere of the time, indicating his concerns about liberty and the potential for despotism. Walpole critiques various political figures and their actions, suggesting a troubling environment marked by ambition and corruption. As he exchanges correspondence with friends, he also shares snippets of his social life and his observations about the natural world, which serve as a contrast to the turmoil of the political landscape he contemplates.
Horace Walpole
The Letters of Horace Walpole, Earl of Orford — Volume 3
"The Letters of Horace Walpole, Earl of Orford — Volume 3" by Horace Walpole is a collection of correspondences written during the mid-18th century. This volume is a part of a larger compilation that tracks Walpole's engagements and reflections on political, cultural, and personal matters in the years 1759 to 1769. The letters provide insights into Walpole's views on contemporary events, literary works, and his personal relationships, highlighting the intersection of personal anecdotes with broader historical contexts. At the start of this volume, Walpole's letters reveal his wit and social observations as he communicates with esteemed contemporaries, including George Montagu and William Pitt. He writes about various themes such as political turbulence in Ireland, the resignations of public figures, and his reactions to military victories, all layered with humor and satire. His correspondence dissects current events, showcases the nuances of aristocratic life, and reflects on the trials and tribulations of personal connections, blending light-hearted banter with serious commentary on the state of England and its politics. The opening sets the tone for the rich tapestry of 18th-century correspondence that characterizes Walpole’s style.
Horace Walpole
Horace Walpole and His World: Select Passages from His Letters
"Horace Walpole and His World: Select Passages from His Letters" by Horace Walpole is a collection of correspondence written in the late 19th century, edited by L. B. Seeley. This work offers a curated selection of letters from Walpole, renowned as one of the greatest English letter writers, providing insights into his personal life, ideas, and the social milieu of his time. The letters, filled with anecdotes, critiques, and reflections, serve as a window into 18th-century England, revealing Walpole’s opinions on politics, art, literature, and society. The opening of this volume introduces readers to Horace Walpole's background, including his upbringing as the son of Sir Robert Walpole, his early education, and subsequent travels across Europe. It highlights his transition from a young man in the shadow of his prominent father to a prominent figure in his own right, known for both his political career and literary contributions. Furthermore, it establishes the context for the letters to come, positioning them not just as personal correspondence but as historical artifacts that reflect the complexities of Walpole's character and the vibrant society of his era. The narrative emphasizes Walpole's wit, sense of humor, and penchant for social commentary, inviting readers to explore the rich tapestry of his thoughts and the world around him.
Horace Walpole
Letters of Horace Walpole — Volume I
"Letters of Horace Walpole — Volume I" by Horace Walpole is a collection of letters written in the 18th century. This correspondence chronicles Walpole's observations, experiences, and commentary on various subjects, ranging from personal anecdotes and insights on societal manners to reflections on political events and cultural phenomena of his time. The opening of this collection reveals Walpole's vibrant personality and his keen engagement with contemporary society. In his letters to friends, he shares thoughts on the marriage of the Princess of Wales, reminisces about his education at Eton, and expresses a desire to travel, all while weaving in humorous observations about English and French manners. He discusses theatrical experiences in Paris, reflects on the splendor of Versailles, and provides a lively account of daily life, highlighting both the grandeur and the absurdity he encounters, thereby setting the tone for what promises to be an insightful and entertaining read through his epistolary exchanges.
Horace Walpole
Letters of Horace Walpole — Volume II
"Letters of Horace Walpole — Volume II" by Horace Walpole is a collection of correspondence written in the mid-18th century. This volume showcases Walpole's observations on various topics, including French society, English politics, and the cultural exchanges between the two nations, revealing his sharp wit and insightful commentary on contemporary life. At the start of the collection, the opening letters introduce Walpole's journey and experiences in Paris, notably his interactions with figures such as Madame de Boufflers and reflections on the French perspective of English character. He expresses amusement with the social dynamics of both cultures, critiquing the rigidity and pretentiousness he perceives in France, while revealing his personal sentiments about art, literature, and the theatre. Additionally, he discusses contemporary political issues, including debates on American taxation and the state of the English government, setting the stage for a vibrant exploration of 18th-century European society as viewed through Walpole's keen eyes.
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