William Hazlitt 
Table Talk 
Essays on Men and Manners

In ‘Table Talk’ by William Hazlitt, readers are treated to a collection of insightful and thought-provoking essays covering a wide range of topics such as literature, philosophy, and art. Hazlitt’s literary style is characterized by his sharp wit, passionate arguments, and keen observations, making the book a valuable contribution to the Romantic literary movement. Written in the early 19th century, ‘Table Talk’ reflects the cultural and intellectual climate of the time, offering readers a glimpse into the minds of the period’s most influential thinkers. Hazlitt’s eloquent prose and compelling ideas continue to captivate readers to this day.

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William Hazlitt (1778-1830), a seminal English writer known for his humanistic essays and literary criticism, was born in Maidstone, Kent, and educated by his father, a Unitarian minister. By the early 19th century, Hazlitt became a prominent figure among the literary circle that included the likes of Wordsworth and Coleridge, though his views later diverged from their romantic inclinations. A prolific writer, Hazlitt crafted some of the most incisive prose of his time, marked by clarity, vigor, and the poignant articulation of personal experience into universal truths. His works often reflected his keen interest in art, politics, philosophy, and social commentary, with a style that mixed introspection with critical acuity. ‘Table Talk; or, Original Essays’ (1821-1822), a two-volume collection of Hazlitt’s essays, showcases a conversational tone while presenting an eclectic range of subjects from the fine arts to the pleasures of hating, blending scholarly criticism with casual reflection. The essays are celebrated for their critical precision and spirited eloquence, embodying the robust analytical tradition in English letters. Hazlitt’s approachable yet scholarly style resulted in essays that were both meditative on human nature and indicative of the society of his era.