What Is A Periodical Essay? What Are Hazlett's Views On Learned Men?

The periodical essay, a distinct and influential literary form, flourished primarily in the 18th and 19th centuries. This essay form, published in regularly appearing magazines or newspapers, served as a platform for writers to engage with contemporary society, explore diverse subjects, and shape public opinion. Periodical essays are characterized by their accessible style, conversational tone, and focus on topics of immediate relevance to their readership. They offered a unique blend of entertainment, education, and social commentary, making them a vital component of the literary landscape during their heyday. This article delves into the characteristics that define the periodical essay, examining its historical context, prominent figures, and enduring legacy. Furthermore, it will explore William Hazlitt's insightful views on learned men, a topic that reflects the intellectual and social concerns prevalent during the era of the periodical essay. Hazlitt, a master of the essay form himself, provided astute observations on the nature of knowledge, the role of intellectuals in society, and the potential pitfalls of excessive learning. By examining his perspective, we gain a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding intellectualism and its impact on individuals and society as a whole. The periodical essay often adopted a familiar and informal style, creating a sense of intimacy between the writer and the reader. This approach allowed essayists to address complex issues in an approachable manner, making their work accessible to a broad audience. The essays frequently explored themes related to morality, manners, literature, and politics, reflecting the intellectual currents of the time. Through vivid prose and engaging narratives, periodical essay writers sought to enlighten, entertain, and provoke thought among their readers. The rise of the periodical essay coincided with the growth of print culture and the expansion of literacy in Europe. Newspapers and magazines became increasingly popular, providing a ready outlet for essayists to share their work. This accessibility contributed to the widespread influence of the form, as periodical essays became a staple of reading material for the educated public. The format also encouraged a sense of dialogue between writers and readers, fostering a vibrant intellectual community. The periodical essay played a crucial role in shaping public discourse and contributing to the development of modern journalism. In examining Hazlitt's views on learned men, we encounter a nuanced perspective on the value and limitations of intellectual pursuits. Hazlitt, a scholar himself, recognized the importance of knowledge and learning but also cautioned against the potential for intellectual arrogance or detachment from the realities of everyday life. His essays on this topic offer a valuable counterpoint to idealized notions of intellectualism, prompting readers to consider the broader implications of knowledge and its application in the world. This exploration of the periodical essay and Hazlitt's views will shed light on a significant chapter in literary history and its enduring relevance to contemporary society.

The periodical essay, as a literary genre, is distinguished by its appearance in regularly published magazines or newspapers, typically on a weekly or monthly basis. This format influenced both the style and content of the essays, as writers aimed to capture the attention of a diverse readership within the constraints of a recurring publication schedule. The essays were often characterized by their brevity, accessibility, and focus on contemporary issues, reflecting the interests and concerns of the reading public. The periodical essay emerged as a prominent form of writing during the 18th century, a period marked by significant social, political, and intellectual changes. The rise of print culture and the expansion of the reading public created a demand for accessible and engaging content. Periodical essays filled this need, offering a platform for writers to explore a wide range of topics, from manners and morals to literature and politics. The essays served as a means of shaping public opinion, fostering intellectual debate, and providing entertainment to readers seeking enlightenment and diversion. The accessibility of the periodical essay was a key factor in its popularity. Writers adopted a conversational tone, often addressing the reader directly and employing wit and humor to engage their audience. The essays were typically shorter than traditional essays or treatises, making them easily digestible for readers with busy schedules. This format also allowed for a greater diversity of voices and perspectives, as magazines and newspapers sought to cater to a broad readership. The periodical essay frequently adopted a familiar style, creating a sense of intimacy between the writer and the reader. This approach allowed essayists to address complex issues in an approachable manner, making their work accessible to a wide audience. The essays often explored themes related to morality, manners, literature, and politics, reflecting the intellectual currents of the time. Through vivid prose and engaging narratives, periodical essay writers sought to enlighten, entertain, and provoke thought among their readers. Prominent figures in the development of the periodical essay include Joseph Addison and Richard Steele, whose collaborative work on The Tatler and The Spectator set the standard for the genre. These publications established a model for the periodical essay that emphasized wit, elegance, and social commentary. Addison and Steele used their essays to explore the manners and morals of their time, offering gentle satire and insightful observations on human nature. Their work influenced generations of essayists and helped to shape the cultural landscape of 18th-century England. Other notable periodical essay writers include Samuel Johnson, Oliver Goldsmith, and William Hazlitt, each of whom brought their unique perspective and style to the form. Johnson's essays in The Rambler and The Idler are characterized by their moral seriousness and intellectual rigor, while Goldsmith's essays are known for their charm and wit. Hazlitt, a Romantic essayist, brought a passionate and personal voice to the genre, exploring topics ranging from literature and art to politics and social issues. The periodical essay played a significant role in the development of modern journalism and the essay form as a whole. Its emphasis on accessibility, engagement with contemporary issues, and the cultivation of a personal voice paved the way for future generations of writers and journalists. The legacy of the periodical essay can be seen in the op-ed pages of newspapers, the personal essays published in magazines, and the blog posts and online articles that circulate today. By understanding the characteristics and historical context of the periodical essay, we gain a deeper appreciation for its enduring influence on literary and journalistic traditions.

William Hazlitt, a renowned essayist and literary critic of the Romantic era, offered insightful and often critical perspectives on learned men and the nature of intellectualism. His essays delve into the complexities of knowledge, the potential pitfalls of excessive learning, and the role of intellectuals in society. Hazlitt's views provide a valuable counterpoint to idealized notions of scholarship, prompting readers to consider the broader implications of intellectual pursuits and their impact on individuals and the world around them. Hazlitt's critique of learned men stems from his belief that knowledge, while valuable, can also be a source of arrogance, detachment, and social alienation. He observed that some individuals, consumed by their intellectual pursuits, may become disconnected from the realities of everyday life and lose sight of the importance of human connection and empathy. In his essays, Hazlitt cautioned against the dangers of intellectual snobbery and the tendency for learned individuals to look down upon those with less formal education. He argued that true wisdom lies not merely in the accumulation of knowledge but in the ability to apply it to practical situations and to engage with the world in a meaningful way. Hazlitt also questioned the notion that learning alone is sufficient for moral or ethical superiority. He noted that some of the most learned individuals have also been among the most morally corrupt, suggesting that intellectual ability does not necessarily translate into virtuous behavior. This perspective challenges the assumption that education is a guaranteed path to moral improvement, highlighting the importance of character, empathy, and social responsibility. In his essays, Hazlitt often contrasted the learned man with the common man, arguing that the latter possesses a certain wisdom and understanding that cannot be acquired through books alone. He celebrated the virtues of common sense, practical intelligence, and the ability to navigate the complexities of human relationships. Hazlitt believed that these qualities were essential for a fulfilling life and that they were often undervalued in intellectual circles. Hazlitt's perspective on learned men is not entirely negative, however. He recognized the importance of scholarship and the pursuit of knowledge, acknowledging that intellectuals play a vital role in society. He admired individuals who possessed both intellectual ability and a genuine commitment to truth and justice. Hazlitt's critique is directed primarily at those who use their learning to elevate themselves above others or who become so immersed in their intellectual pursuits that they lose touch with the world around them. Hazlitt's essays on learned men reflect the intellectual and social concerns of his time. The Romantic era was marked by a growing emphasis on individualism, emotion, and the importance of personal experience. Hazlitt's critique of intellectualism aligns with this broader cultural trend, as he sought to challenge traditional hierarchies and to celebrate the value of human feeling and intuition. His essays encourage readers to question conventional wisdom and to form their own judgments based on careful observation and critical thinking. By examining Hazlitt's views on learned men, we gain a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding intellectualism and its impact on individuals and society. His essays serve as a reminder that knowledge is a powerful tool, but it must be wielded with wisdom, humility, and a genuine concern for the well-being of others. Hazlitt's perspective encourages us to cultivate a balanced approach to learning, one that values both intellectual pursuits and the importance of human connection and empathy.

The periodical essay, a dominant literary form during the 18th and 19th centuries, possessed several key characteristics that distinguished it from other types of writing. These features, shaped by the format of regular publication in magazines and newspapers, contributed to the essay's popularity and influence. Understanding these characteristics is crucial to appreciating the unique qualities of the periodical essay and its lasting legacy. One of the defining features of the periodical essay is its accessibility. Writers aimed to engage a broad readership, often employing a conversational tone and avoiding overly academic or technical language. The essays were typically shorter than traditional essays or treatises, making them easily digestible for readers with limited time. This emphasis on accessibility contributed to the widespread appeal of the periodical essay and its ability to shape public opinion. The periodical essay also distinguished itself through its focus on contemporary issues. Writers addressed topics that were of immediate relevance to their readers, such as manners, morals, politics, literature, and social trends. This engagement with current events made the essays timely and engaging, fostering a sense of dialogue between writers and their audience. The periodical essay served as a platform for intellectual debate and social commentary, contributing to the vibrant cultural landscape of the time. Another key characteristic of the periodical essay is its emphasis on wit and humor. Writers often employed satire, irony, and other forms of humor to entertain their readers and to make their points more effectively. Wit served as a tool for social critique, allowing essayists to expose follies and absurdities while maintaining a lighthearted tone. The use of humor also made the essays more accessible and engaging, attracting a wider readership. The periodical essay frequently adopted a personal and reflective tone. Writers often shared their own experiences, thoughts, and feelings, creating a sense of intimacy with their readers. This personal approach allowed essayists to explore complex issues from a unique perspective, adding depth and nuance to their writing. The emphasis on personal voice also contributed to the development of the essay as a distinct literary genre, separate from more formal or academic forms of writing. The periodical essay also played a significant role in shaping the development of English prose style. Writers like Addison and Steele cultivated a clear, elegant, and balanced style that became a model for future generations. They emphasized precision, clarity, and the use of vivid language to engage the reader's imagination. The periodical essay helped to establish a standard for good writing that influenced both literary and journalistic practices. The legacy of the periodical essay can be seen in the op-ed pages of newspapers, the personal essays published in magazines, and the blog posts and online articles that circulate today. Its emphasis on accessibility, engagement with contemporary issues, wit, personal voice, and clear prose style continues to resonate with writers and readers alike. By understanding the key characteristics of the periodical essay, we can appreciate its enduring influence on literary and journalistic traditions and its ongoing relevance in the digital age.

In conclusion, the periodical essay stands as a significant literary form, characterized by its accessibility, engagement with contemporary issues, wit, personal voice, and influence on English prose style. Its rise during the 18th and 19th centuries reflects the growth of print culture and the expansion of the reading public, providing a platform for writers to shape public opinion, foster intellectual debate, and entertain a diverse audience. The essays of Addison, Steele, Johnson, Goldsmith, and Hazlitt, among others, exemplify the genre's versatility and enduring appeal. Furthermore, William Hazlitt's views on learned men offer a valuable perspective on the complexities of intellectualism and its impact on individuals and society. His essays challenge idealized notions of scholarship, prompting readers to consider the potential pitfalls of excessive learning and the importance of balancing intellectual pursuits with human connection and empathy. Hazlitt's insights remain relevant today, as we grapple with the role of knowledge in a rapidly changing world. The legacy of the periodical essay extends beyond its historical context, influencing the development of modern journalism, the essay form, and various forms of online writing. Its emphasis on accessibility, engagement with contemporary issues, and the cultivation of a personal voice continues to resonate with writers and readers alike. The periodical essay serves as a reminder of the power of concise, engaging prose to inform, entertain, and provoke thought. By examining the characteristics of the periodical essay and the perspectives of writers like Hazlitt, we gain a deeper appreciation for the rich history of the essay form and its ongoing relevance in contemporary society. The periodical essay, with its unique blend of accessibility, wit, and social commentary, remains a vital part of our literary heritage. Its influence can be seen in the op-ed pages of newspapers, the personal essays published in magazines, and the blog posts and online articles that circulate today. The periodical essay has demonstrated its adaptability and staying power, continuing to evolve and find new forms of expression in the digital age. As we reflect on the legacy of the periodical essay, we are reminded of the importance of clear, engaging writing in shaping public discourse and fostering intellectual exchange. The essays of the past provide valuable insights into the social, political, and cultural issues of their time, while also offering timeless reflections on human nature and the complexities of the human experience. The study of the periodical essay offers a unique window into the literary and intellectual history of the 18th and 19th centuries, while also providing valuable lessons for writers and readers in the 21st century. By embracing the principles of accessibility, engagement, and personal voice, we can continue to harness the power of the essay to inform, entertain, and inspire.