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The French Revolution is a defining moment in world history, and usually it has been first approached by English-speaking readers through the picture painted of it by Edmund Burke.
Reflections on the Revolution in France is a classic work in a range of fields from history through political science to literature, and securely holds its place among the canon of "great books." Yet its meaning is still contested and often misunderstood, equally by those who wish to admire or to denigrate Burke for his present-day relevance. This edition aims to locate Burke once again in his contemporary political and intellectual setting. Alone among recent versions, it reprints the text of the first edition of the
Reflections, and shows how Burke amended it as his knowledge of the Revolution deepened. It is certain to become the standard edition for scholars and students alike.
The editor's Introduction is much more extensive than that of any previous edition. It situates the
Reflections in Burke's life and the development of his ideas, the history of English political thought, the debate about the French Revolution, and the debate the book itself inspired. But the Introduction is more than a compendium of information; it is a thoughtful, coherent interpretation of Burke and his book. The editor's notes are also fuller than those of any previous edition, glossing many literary and biblical allusions missed by previous editors. He also supplies an extended note on the text, a biographical guide, and a bibliography, helpfully presented in discursive form.
List of contents
Preface; Abbreviations; Introduction; Bibliography; Reflections on the revolution in France; Preface; Part I. The English Constitution and the Revolution of 1688: Part II. The French Revolution: Part III. English Society: Part IV. Contrasting Principles of the French Revolution: Part V. French Society before the Revolution: Part VI. The Expropriation of the French Church: Part VII. The proceedings of the National Assembly: Conclusion; Appendices; Index.
About the author
J. C. D. Clark is the author of several books, including
English Society, 1660-1832 and
The Language of Literature, 1660-1832.
Summary
The French Revolution is a defining moment in world history and has usually been first approached by English-speaking readers through the picture painted of it by Edmund Burke. This text is a classic work in a range of fields from history through political science to literature,
