Hours in a Library, Volume 2 New Edition, with Additions

"Hours in a Library, Volume 2" by Leslie Stephen, is a compilation of literary analyses from the late 1800s, presenting perspectives on significant intellectual and literary contributors like Dr. Johnson, George Crabbe, and William Hazlitt. This volume explores the essence of writing, the shift from traditional to contemporary literary styles, and the reflection of human life within literary creations, intended for readers with an interest in literary history and critical thought. The essays begin by scrutinizing Dr. Johnson, highlighting both the impact of his concepts and the difficulties his writing style poses for modern readers. The collection examines Johnson’s prose, sets it against his peers, and those who wrote about him, such as Macaulay and Carlyle, finding him to be intellectually profound but stylistically challenging. The book establishes an environment for a deeper understanding of how Johnson’s life informed his writing and how it continues to affect readers over time, combining admiration for Johnson's insights with a careful inspection of his work's approachability.