La Bruye`Re und Vauvenargues: Selections from the Characters [And] Reflexions and Maxims

The book Selections from the Characters Reflexions and Maxims of La Bruyere and of Vauvenargues by Elizabeth Lee provides insights into the lives and works of two great unsystematic philosophers. La Bruyere born in 1645 led a life of observation and contemplation gaining experiences from teaching the Duke of Bourbon. His work Characters or the Manners of the Age aimed to describe the manners of his time through portraits and reflections. La Bruyere's style was characterized by rich vocabulary conciseness and original illustrations of abstract ideas. Vauvenargues born in 1715 came from a poor family and pursued a military career. His health issues led him to turn to writing and his work Introduction to the Knowledge of the Human Mind received praise from Voltaire. Vauvenargues's writings on religion faith and friendship reflect his deep thoughts and struggles with poverty and illness. Despite his untimely death at the age of 32 his works were later recognized and published posthumously. The book provides a glimpse into the lives and philosophies of these two philosophers highlighting their unique perspectives on human nature society and personal experiences. Through their characters reflections and maxims readers can explore the wisdom and insights of La Bruyere and Vauvenargues shedding light on the complexities of life and the human condition. The end of the book reflects on the qualities of great men emphasizing the importance of noble souls courage intelligence and ambition. It discusses the fear of mediocrity and the ambition of those with feeble resources. The text also delves into the nature of war dependence and the pursuit of luxury. It touches on the value of experience the beauty of youth and the sweetness of fame. The reflections and maxims explore themes of courage wisdom peace deception talent justice and ingratitude. The book concludes with a discussion on the tiresome nature of high affairs and the inequality of merit and fortune.