ABSTRACT

This ‘philosophical biography’ gives an account of Godwin’s life and thought, and by setting his thoughts in the context of his life, brings the two into juxtaposition. It relates Godwin’s views on politics and morality, education and religion, freedom and society, to the events of his life, notably the revolution in France and its impact on radicalism and reaction in Britain and the parliamentary reforms of 1832.

chapter 1|11 pages

Reason, truth and justice

chapter 2|13 pages

The most powerful instrument

chapter 3|15 pages

Sincere friendships

chapter 4|10 pages

The great debate

chapter 5|14 pages

A true euthanasia of government

chapter 6|12 pages

Things as they are

chapter 7|11 pages

A case of constructive treason

chapter 8|13 pages

The firmament of reputation

chapter 9|15 pages

Genial and benignant power!

chapter 10|18 pages

A salutary and respectable institution

chapter 11|11 pages

The empire of feeling

chapter 12|11 pages

Domestic and private affections

chapter 13|12 pages

Apostasy and calumny

chapter 14|13 pages

The famous fire cause

chapter 15|14 pages

Antonio, a tragedy

chapter 16|11 pages

The best qualities of a reply

chapter 17|12 pages

The immortal Godwin, I presume

chapter 18|12 pages

M. J. Godwin and Co.

chapter 19|13 pages

The monster with the maw

chapter 20|13 pages

A young gentleman of fortune

chapter 21|12 pages

The venerable horseleech

chapter 22|15 pages

A pauper's grave

chapter 23|14 pages

The principle of populations

chapter 24|17 pages

A notice to quit

chapter 25|15 pages

A virtue of necessity

chapter 26|11 pages

For services rendered

chapter 27|16 pages

A last judgment