Thomas Carlyle, History of the F Quotes

A collection of quotes by Thomas Carlyle, History of the F.

Thomas Carlyle (1795-1881) was a Scottish writer, historian, and philosopher known for his influential works on history, politics, and social criticism. Born in Ecclefechan, Scotland, Carlyle was raised in a strict Calvinist family and received a classical education. He initially pursued a career in mathematics but later shifted his focus to literature and philosophy.

Carlyle's most significant work, "The French Revolution: A History," published in 1837, established his reputation as a historian. The book presented a vivid and dramatic account of the French Revolution, emphasizing the importance of heroic leadership and the role of individuals in shaping historical events. This work greatly influenced the development of historical writing and became a cornerstone of the Romantic movement.

Aside from his historical works, Carlyle was known for his critical views on society and politics. In his essay "Signs of the Times" (1829) and his book "Past and Present" (1843), he expressed his discontent with the negative effects of industrialization and advocated for social reform. Carlyle's writings encompassed a wide range of subjects, including literature, religion, and economics, all of which he approached with his distinctive and often provocative style.

Carlyle's ideas and writings had a profound impact on several notable figures of his time, including Charles Dickens, John Ruskin, and Ralph Waldo Emerson, who considered him as one of the great thinkers of the era. Despite his influence during his lifetime, Carlyle's reputation declined in the twentieth century but has experienced a resurgence of interest in recent years, particularly with regards to his works on history and his complex political and cultural views.