TRANSLATOR'S PREFACE.

Hegel's Lectures on the Philosophy of History are recognized in Germany as a popular introduction to his philosophical system. Their form is less rigid than most metaphysical treatises, and the illustrations—which occupy a large portion of the work—are drawn from a field of observation that is perhaps more familiar than any other to those who have not devoted much time to metaphysical studies. One great value of the work is that it presents the leading facts of history from an altogether novel point of view. When one considers that the writings of Hegel have exercised a marked influence on the political movements of Germany, it must be admitted that his theory of the universe—especially the part which bears directly upon politics—deserves attention even from those who are the most exclusive advocates of "practical" matters.

A writer who has established his claim to be regarded as an authority, by the life which he has infused into metaphysical abstractions, has pronounced the work before us, "one of the pleasantest books on the subject he ever read." The translator refers to Mr. G. H. Lewes in his Biographical History of Philosophy, Vol. IV, 1841 edition.

Compared with the writing of most German authors, even the style may claim to be called vigorous and pointed. If, therefore, in its English dress the Philosophy of History should be found lacking in this respect, the fault must not be attributed to the original.

It has been the aim of the translator to present his author...

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