George Henry Lewes
George Henry Lewes
#### Full Name and Common Aliases
George Henry Lewes was born on April 18, 1817, in the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland. He is often referred to as G.H. Lewes.
Birth and Death Dates
April 18, 1817 - November 30, 1878
Nationality and Profession(s)
Lewes was a British author, translator, and literary critic. He was also known for his work in the fields of science and philosophy.
Early Life and Background
George Henry Lewes was born to Thomas Austen Lewes and Elizabeth Malet. His early life was marked by tragedy when his father abandoned the family when George was just a child. This event had a profound impact on his later life, shaping his views on morality and responsibility. Despite these challenges, Lewes went on to develop a passion for literature and learning.
Major Accomplishments
Lewes's contributions to literature are numerous. He was a prolific writer and translator, producing works that showcased his erudition and critical acumen. His translation of the German philosopher Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel's The Philosophy of History helped introduce Hegel's ideas to English-speaking audiences.
Notable Works or Actions
Some of Lewes's notable works include:
The Biographical History of Philosophy (1857) - a comprehensive history of philosophical thought
Aristotle: A Chapter from the 19th Century (1864) - an exploration of Aristotle's influence on modern thought
* Seaside Studies (1858) - a collection of essays on natural history and science
Lewes was also known for his unwavering support of women's rights, particularly in the context of marriage. He believed that women should have equal rights to men, including the right to divorce.
Impact and Legacy
George Henry Lewes had a significant impact on literary and intellectual circles during his lifetime. His translations and writings introduced many English readers to German philosophy and science for the first time.
Lewes's legacy extends beyond his written works. He was a pioneer in advocating for women's rights, particularly in the context of marriage. His views on morality and responsibility were shaped by his difficult childhood, and he went on to become a vocal advocate for social reform.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Lewes is widely quoted and remembered for his insightful writings on literature and philosophy. His translations and essays introduced many English readers to German thought, helping to shape the intellectual landscape of Victorian England.
Quotes by George Henry Lewes
George Henry Lewes's insights on:
The great desire of this age is for a doctrine which may serve to condense our knowledge, guide our researches, and shape our lives, so that conduct may really be the consequence of belief.
No deeply rooted tendency was ever extirpated by adverse judgment. Not having originally been founded on argument, it cannot be destroyed by logic.
Those works alone can have enduring success which successfully appeal to what is permanent in human nature – which, while suiting the taste of the day, contain truths and beauty deeper than the opinions and tastes of the day.
If the members of a class do not understand – if those directly addressed fail to listen, or listening, fail to recognize a power in the voice – surely the fault lies with the speaker, who, having attempted to secure their attention and enlighten their understandings, has failed in the attempt.
The art of writing is not, as many seem to imagine, the art of bringing fine phrases into rhythmical order, but the art of placing before the reader intelligible symbols of the thoughts and feelings in the writer’s mind.
Over the meeting of the lovers I draw a veil. The burst of rapture with which they clasped each other in a wild embrace – the many inquiries – the fond regrets and thrilling hopes – it is out of my power to convey. Let me, therefore, leave them to their happiness.
The air is crowded with birds – beautiful, tender, intelligent birds – to whom life is a song.
Among the many strange servilities mistaken for pieties, one of the least lovely is that which hopes to flatter God by despising the world, and vilifying human nature.