Life and Correspondence of David Hume, Volume 2

"Life and Correspondence of David Hume, Volume 2" by John Hill Burton is a journey into the world of David Hume, a well-known Scottish thinker, through his life experiences and written letters. The mid-1800s account highlights Hume's thinking, friendships, and the world he lived in, exploring his writings and his connections with famous people such as Adam Smith and Rousseau. Specifically, the book opens by describing Hume's life from 1756 to 1759, detailing his efforts to publish his historical writings, including the second volume of his History of the Stuarts and the hurdles he faced in gaining recognition, eventually realizing his intellectual potential. Insights from his letters with publishers and friends can be found, showcasing how he approached writing and how he dealt with public opinion and criticism. The book also considers Hume's changing opinions on religion, his social life, and the difficulties of his Scottish identity, setting a scene to further understand his effects on philosophy and historical writing.