The Uncollected Writings of Thomas De Quincey, Vol. 2: With a Preface and Annotations by James Hogg

A collection of essays and articles written in the mid-19th century. The volume covers a range of topics, indicating De Quincey's diverse interests including critiques on Shakespeare's text, discussions on morality and warfare, and explorations of literature and language. This compilation showcases the author's intellectual engagement with pressing cultural and historical questions of his time, making it a compelling read for those interested in Victorian thought and literary criticism. At the start of the book, the content reveals De Quincey’s reflections on the English in China, meticulously examining the moral implications of British colonial actions in the context of the Anglo-Chinese conflicts. The opening essay, originally published in 1857, serves as a commentary on British imperialism, reflecting on the ethical dilemmas faced by the British as they navigated their interests abroad amid rising tensions in China. De Quincey's analysis merges historical narrative with moral inquiry, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of cultural interactions and the responsibilities of nations towards one another.