Johnson was very close to Swift in the difficulties he had to face because of his poor health and difficult social positions. Both of these tortured men were able to impose their names on the two phases of 18th century life: The Age of Swift from 1700 to 1740 and the Age of Johnson to 1789. Swift predominated in the age of satire and Johnson in the age of biography and literary criticism.

The Harvard Classics: All 71 Volumes represents an unparalleled assemblage of literary, philosophical, and scientific works that have shaped the underpinnings of Western cultural heritage. Spanning millennia, this comprehensive anthology brings together the towering figures of literature, philosophy, and science, from the dramatic dialogues of Plato to the poignant narratives of Goethe, the keen observations of Darwin, and the profound inquiries of Kant. Its diverse range of styles and themesencompassing the transformative literature of Shakespeare, the foundational plays of Euripides, and the revolutionary explorations of Galileo and Newtonstands as a testament to human creativity and intellect. The anthology does not just celebrate individual genius but emphasizes the dialogue between these works, highlighting the interconnectedness of human thought across time and space. The contributing authors and editors of the Harvard Classics collection represent a veritable who's who of literary and intellectual history. Their backgrounds as pioneers, revolutionaries, and visionaries in their respective fields contributed to a rich mosaic of human experience and understanding. This anthology aligns with key historical, cultural, and literary movements, ranging from the Enlightenment to Romanticism, showcasing how these varied voices collectively contribute to a deeper understanding of themes such as human nature, governance, and the pursuit of knowledge. The collection is both a commemoration of individual achievement and a chronicle of the human endeavor to comprehend our world and our place within it. This anthology is recommended for readers who wish to immerse themselves in the expanse of human knowledge and creativity. The Harvard Classics: All 71 Volumes offers a unique opportunity to explore the breadth and depth of the human intellect across centuries and civilizations. It encourages a dialogue with the past, providing educational value through its diverse insights into human culture, thought, and achievements. Readers will find in these pages a lifetime of wisdom and inspiration, making this collection a cornerstone for any home library, an invaluable resource for scholars, and a treasure trove for anyone passionate about the continuing journey of human thought and expression.

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The Complete Harvard Classics Shelf, encompassing 51 Volumes of Essential Classics along with 20 Volumes of the Greatest Works of Fiction, embodies an unprecedented literary compilation that spans the spectrum of human thought and expression. This collection showcases a vast array of themesfrom the foundations of Western philosophy and the intricacies of political theory to the nuanced realms of personal experience and the rich tapestry of the human condition. Within its pages, readers will encounter a diverse range of literary styles, from the dramatic dialogues of Plato to the biting wit of Mark Twain, and from the Romantic visions of Percy Bysshe Shelley to the piercing observations of Jane Austen. The anthology stands as a testament to the enduring value of literature, inviting a re-examination of classic works that continue to challenge, inspire, and provoke dialogue across generations. The contributing authors and editors, each a luminary in their respective fields, bring together an illustrious tapestry of voices that reflect the breadth and depth of human experience. This collection spans epochs, continents, and genres, offering insights into the minds of figures like Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, Charles Darwin, and William Shakespeare, alongside those of Aristotle, Francis Bacon, and Ralph Waldo Emerson. By weaving together the contributions of such a diverse group, The Harvard Classics Shelf aligns itself not only with multiple historical and cultural movements but also with the evolution of literary and philosophical thought. The anthology serves as a bridge, connecting readers with the intellectual and creative endeavors that have shaped our world. This anthology is recommended for anyone with a passion for literature, philosophy, and history. It offers a unique opportunity to engage with the seminal works that have laid the foundation for much of contemporary thought and literature. Readers are encouraged to delve into its volumes to explore the multitude of perspectives, styles, and themes. The Complete Harvard Classics Shelf does more than furnish readers with a comprehensive education in literature and philosophy; it opens up a dialogue between past and present, inviting an exploration of the timeless human issues that continue to engage us today. For scholars, students, and lifelong learners alike, this collection promises an enriching journey through the landscape of human knowledge and creativity.