William Hazlitt, Essayist and Literary Critic

William Hazlitt was a significant English essayist, literary critic, and philosopher known for his passionate humanistic essays and sharp criticism of literature, particularly during the Romantic movement. His literary career spanned various genres, with a unique style admired for its insightful observations and genuine warmth. Although he initially faced financial challenges, Hazlitt's career began to soar after he started lecturing on philosophy and reporting for the Morning Chronicle around 1811. This opportunity helped establish his reputation as a respected critic and essayist.

A major turning point came in 1817 when Hazlitt published Characters of Shakespeare’s Plays, pioneering a volume of critical essays that provided personal, enthusiastic, and engaging evaluations of Shakespeare's work. Unlike earlier critics, who often took a more academic approach, Hazlitt wrote for a general audience, emphasizing the emotional and human elements of the characters. His next important work, A View of the English Stage (1818), further solidified his status in literary criticism.

From 1817 to 1818, Hazlitt contributed to Leigh Hunt’s Examiner, which led to the creation of The Round Table (1817)—a two-volume collection of essays mostly written by him. He was also recognized for his abilities as a lecturer, presenting topics on literature such as On the English Poets (1818) and On the English Comic Writers (1819). These lectures showcased his broad literary interests and skills in public speaking.

In 1819, he published Lectures on the Dramatic Literature of the Age of Elizabeth, which focused on dramatists from that era other than Shakespeare; this work was well received and signified the peak of his critical acclaim. Shortly after, he began sharing the widely recognized Table Talk essays (1821–1822)—a collection of thirty-three reflective essays covering various topics like art, human nature, and culture. Notably included are the essays “The Indian Jugglers” and “On Genius and Common Sense.”

Despite facing personal struggles and contentious relationships, Hazlitt continued to create significant works. His publications included Sketches of the Principal Picture Galleries in England (1824), The Plain Speaker (1826), and the political commentary The Spirit of the Age (1825). He completed his last major project, the four-volume Life of Napoleon (1828–1830), during his final years in France. Hazlitt's essays are celebrated for their blend of critical insight, personal reflection, and emphasis on shared humanity, marking him as one of the leading essayists and critics of the early 19th century.