Thomas Carlyle: A History of the First Forty Years of his Life, 1795-1835

Thomas Carlyle (1795-1881) was one of the most influential authors of the nineteenth century. His satirical essays and perceptive historical biographies caused him to be regarded for much of the Victorian period as a literary genius and eminent social philosopher. These volumes, first published in 1882, form the first part of Carlyle’s official biography, describing his early life and literary work in Scotland. Carlyle’s early career was spent as a teacher and part-time writer before his move to London in 1834. Written by Carlyle’s close friend James Anthony Froude (1818-1894), this candid and controversial biography describes in vivid detail Carlyle’s early literary influences and the sense of isolation he felt during his frustrating years as a schoolmaster. This revealing work broke traditional Victorian biographical conventions, and is considered a classic for its critical analysis of Carlyle’s actions and character. Volume 2 covers the years 1828-1834.