The Best of the World's Classics, Restricted to Prose, Vol. IV (of X)—Great Britain and Ireland II

"The Best of the World's Classics, Restricted to Prose, Vol. IV (of X)—Great...." is a collection of classic prose works edited by Henry Cabot Lodge, likely written in the early 20th century. This volume focuses specifically on notable literary figures from Great Britain and Ireland from the period of 1672 to 1800, presenting selections from renowned authors such as Sir Richard Steele, Lord Bolingbroke, and Alexander Pope. The anthology showcases excerpts that reflect the thoughts, manners, and cultural issues of the time, appealing to readers interested in literature's rich historical context. The opening portion introduces the volume and outlines the content, beginning with a piece by Sir Richard Steele titled "Of Companions and Flatterers." Steele reflects on the nature of friendships, the pitfalls of flattery, and the complexities of human interactions. He provides insights into the cultural and social behaviors of his day, noting that true companionship lies with those who neither excessively flatter nor criticize. The subsequent pieces promise to delve deeper into various themes related to society, love, and human behavior, through the eyes of prominent 17th and 18th-century writers, setting the stage for a rich exploration of classic literature.