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Chartism
Chartism, was written by Thomas Carlyle, was one of his early works, written at the age of 34, which was first published in 1829, (and later reprinted in 1840 by James Fraser). It presents his first analysis and criticism of the Chartist movement and what was termed the "condition of England question". The work is from a vein of analysis he did into the problems of poverty, uncontrolled industrialisation, materialism, and exploitation of the poor, to which the Chartist movement was largely a reaction to.
84 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1840
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306 people want to read
About the author
Thomas Carlyle
1,716 books525 followersThomas Carlyle, Scottish historian, critic, and sociological writer. was born in the village of Ecclefechan, Dumfriesshire, eldest child of James Carlyle, stonemason, and Margaret (Aitken) Carlyle. The father was stern, irascible, a puritan of the puritans, but withal a man of rigid probity and strength of character. The mother, too, was of the Scottish earth, and Thomas' education was begun at home by both the parents. From the age of five to nine he was at the village school; from nine to fourteen at Annan Grammar School. where he showed proficiency in mathematics and was well grounded in French and Latin. In November 1809 he walked to Edinburgh, and attended courses at the University till 1814, with the ultimate aim of becoming a minister. He left without a degree, became a mathematical tutor at Annan Academy in 1814, and three years later abandoned all thoughts of entering the Kirk, having reached a theological position incompatible with its teachings. He had begun to learn German in Edinburgh, and had done much independent reading outside the regular curriculum. Late in 1816 he moved to a school in Kirkcaldy, where he became the intimate associate of Edward Irving, an old boy of Annan School, and now also a schoolmaster. This contact was Carlyle's first experience of true intellectual companionship, and the two men became lifelong friends. He remained there two years, was attracted by Margaret Gordon, a lady of good family (whose friends vetoed an engagement), and in October 1818 gave up schoolmastering and went to Edinburgh, where he took mathematical pupils and made some show of reading law.
During this period in the Scottish capital he began to suffer agonies from a gastric complaint which continued to torment him all his life, and may well have played a large part in shaping the rugged, rude fabric of his philosophy. In literature he had at first little success, a series of articles for the Edinburgh Encyclopaedia bringing in little money and no special credit. In 1820 and 1821 he visited Irving in Glasgow and made long stays at his father's new farm, Mainhill; and in June 1821, in Leith Walk, Edinburgh, he experienced a striking spiritual rebirth which is related in Sartor Resartus. Put briefly and prosaically, it consisted in a sudden clearing away of doubts as to the beneficent organization of the universe; a semi-mystical conviction that he was free to think and work, and that honest effort and striving would not be thwarted by what he called the "Everlasting No."
For about a year, from the spring of 1823, Carlyle was tutor to Charles and Arthur Buller, young men of substance, first in Edinburgh and later at Dunkeld. Now likewise appeared the first fruits of his deep studies in German, the Life of Schiller, which was published serially in the London Magazine in 1823-24 and issued as a separate volume in 1825. A second garner from the same field was his version of Goethe's Wilhelm Meister which earned the praise of Blackwood's and was at once recognized as a very masterly rendering.
In 1821 Irving had gone to London, and in June 1821 Carlyle followed, in the train of his employers, the Bullers. But he soon resigned his tutorship, and, after a few weeks at Birmingham, trying a dyspepsia cure, he lived with Irving at Pentonville, London, and paid a short visit to Paris. March 1825 saw him back; in Scotland, on his brother's farm, Hoddam Hill, near the Solway. Here for a year he worked hard at German translations, perhaps more serenely than before or after and free from that noise which was always a curse to his sensitive ear and which later caused him to build a sound-proof room in his Chelsea home.
Before leaving for London Irving had introduced Carlyle to Jane Baillie Welsh daughter of the surgeon, John Welsh, and descended from John Knox. She was beautiful, precociously learned, talented, and a brilliant mistress of cynical satire. Among her numerous suitors, the rough, uncouth
During this period in the Scottish capital he began to suffer agonies from a gastric complaint which continued to torment him all his life, and may well have played a large part in shaping the rugged, rude fabric of his philosophy. In literature he had at first little success, a series of articles for the Edinburgh Encyclopaedia bringing in little money and no special credit. In 1820 and 1821 he visited Irving in Glasgow and made long stays at his father's new farm, Mainhill; and in June 1821, in Leith Walk, Edinburgh, he experienced a striking spiritual rebirth which is related in Sartor Resartus. Put briefly and prosaically, it consisted in a sudden clearing away of doubts as to the beneficent organization of the universe; a semi-mystical conviction that he was free to think and work, and that honest effort and striving would not be thwarted by what he called the "Everlasting No."
For about a year, from the spring of 1823, Carlyle was tutor to Charles and Arthur Buller, young men of substance, first in Edinburgh and later at Dunkeld. Now likewise appeared the first fruits of his deep studies in German, the Life of Schiller, which was published serially in the London Magazine in 1823-24 and issued as a separate volume in 1825. A second garner from the same field was his version of Goethe's Wilhelm Meister which earned the praise of Blackwood's and was at once recognized as a very masterly rendering.
In 1821 Irving had gone to London, and in June 1821 Carlyle followed, in the train of his employers, the Bullers. But he soon resigned his tutorship, and, after a few weeks at Birmingham, trying a dyspepsia cure, he lived with Irving at Pentonville, London, and paid a short visit to Paris. March 1825 saw him back; in Scotland, on his brother's farm, Hoddam Hill, near the Solway. Here for a year he worked hard at German translations, perhaps more serenely than before or after and free from that noise which was always a curse to his sensitive ear and which later caused him to build a sound-proof room in his Chelsea home.
Before leaving for London Irving had introduced Carlyle to Jane Baillie Welsh daughter of the surgeon, John Welsh, and descended from John Knox. She was beautiful, precociously learned, talented, and a brilliant mistress of cynical satire. Among her numerous suitors, the rough, uncouth
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
November 28, 2024
A phenomenal place to start when discussing how capitalism has reduced the value of human relationships to mere market transactions.
This book discusses the pressing contemporary issue of how many elites in the "anglosphere" are not diligently governing the populations that they oversee and are making claims of "laize faire" as a copt-out for said elite to refuse to give concern for the social health of the commoners.
He notes how the ideas of Adam Smith further the lack of true concern for the health of the commons.
The wide use of cash, as he notes, has produced a situation of indifference amongst the governing classes about the health of those they govern. Before the wide use of cash, it was existential for rulers to be concerned for the health of the people (salus populi). Relationships were not based on market transactions, but rather, on a formal understanding of the direct social responsibility of what the rulers owed to the ruled. Since cash is now the main means of relations, it allows for an indifference to become prevalent.
This can be translated today. Most of the governing intelligentsia of the American metropole are little concerned for the social health of the population. Why does it matter to the Smithian if the population is sterile, so long as the consumption of slop has nominally increased, there is nothing to be concerned about? The 'laize fairre' ideas ultimately represent a pig philosophy.
Carlyle's critique of lackluster aristocracy can also be seen in his writings on the French Revolution. Ultimately, Carlyle did not agree with the political demands of the Revolutionaries, however, Carlyle articulated that if an aristocracy governs as terrible as the French aristocracy did then it deserves to be destroyed.
"Salus populi" above all.
This book discusses the pressing contemporary issue of how many elites in the "anglosphere" are not diligently governing the populations that they oversee and are making claims of "laize faire" as a copt-out for said elite to refuse to give concern for the social health of the commoners.
He notes how the ideas of Adam Smith further the lack of true concern for the health of the commons.
The wide use of cash, as he notes, has produced a situation of indifference amongst the governing classes about the health of those they govern. Before the wide use of cash, it was existential for rulers to be concerned for the health of the people (salus populi). Relationships were not based on market transactions, but rather, on a formal understanding of the direct social responsibility of what the rulers owed to the ruled. Since cash is now the main means of relations, it allows for an indifference to become prevalent.
This can be translated today. Most of the governing intelligentsia of the American metropole are little concerned for the social health of the population. Why does it matter to the Smithian if the population is sterile, so long as the consumption of slop has nominally increased, there is nothing to be concerned about? The 'laize fairre' ideas ultimately represent a pig philosophy.
Carlyle's critique of lackluster aristocracy can also be seen in his writings on the French Revolution. Ultimately, Carlyle did not agree with the political demands of the Revolutionaries, however, Carlyle articulated that if an aristocracy governs as terrible as the French aristocracy did then it deserves to be destroyed.
"Salus populi" above all.
May 10, 2016
A scathing condemnation of the self-serving practices of Victorian era politicians and their laissez-faire policies which favoured the propertied class in amassing more wealth on the backs of their work-force.
His contempt for their use of statistics to get the results they desire is still relevant.
Carlyle shows the consequences of the vicious poor laws and exposes the image of the poor as lazy and degenerate as rhetoric condemning the masses protesting their situation. He warns them of the inevitable social eruptions if they continue to ignore the demands of the majority, as expressed in the Chartist movement, and offer them no other recourse to improve their lot but armed resistance.
Carlyle is very astute in his observations, since Chartism, despite its initial failure as a political movement, inspired later political parties and reform movements, and many of their demands were implemented in the following decades.
His contempt for their use of statistics to get the results they desire is still relevant.
Carlyle shows the consequences of the vicious poor laws and exposes the image of the poor as lazy and degenerate as rhetoric condemning the masses protesting their situation. He warns them of the inevitable social eruptions if they continue to ignore the demands of the majority, as expressed in the Chartist movement, and offer them no other recourse to improve their lot but armed resistance.
Carlyle is very astute in his observations, since Chartism, despite its initial failure as a political movement, inspired later political parties and reform movements, and many of their demands were implemented in the following decades.
January 21, 2022
i guess this was an interesting read.. but im not doing a history degree so like why did i have to read it?
December 29, 2022
hard read but some good content
June 20, 2023
“Chartism" by Thomas Carlyle provides a comprehensive analysis of the social and political movement known as Chartism, which emerged in nineteenth-century Britain as a response to the working-class grievances and demands for political reform. Carlyle, a prominent Victorian essayist and historian, offers a critical examination of Chartism's origins, motivations, and outcomes, shedding light on the complexities of working-class politics during this transformative period. This review aims to provide an academic evaluation of Carlyle's arguments, discussing the book's strengths, weaknesses, and its significance within the fields of social history, political theory, and labor studies.
In "Chartism," Carlyle explores the origins and development of the Chartists' movement, highlighting the social and economic conditions that fueled discontent among the working class. He delves into the Chartists' demands for political reform, including universal suffrage, secret ballots, and the establishment of a people's charter. Carlyle examines the movement's leaders, the nature of their appeals, and the response of the ruling elite and the government.
One of the notable strengths of Carlyle's work lies in his meticulous research and vivid portrayal of the socio-political context of nineteenth-century Britain. He draws upon primary sources, historical events, and personal narratives to provide a nuanced understanding of the conditions that gave rise to Chartism and the diverse motivations behind its supporters. Carlyle's detailed analysis sheds light on the complexities of class struggle, political consciousness, and the aspirations of the working class during this period.
Carlyle's deep engagement with the primary sources and his ability to capture the spirit of the era make "Chartism" a valuable contribution to the understanding of working-class politics in nineteenth-century Britain. His vivid descriptions and evocative language provide readers with a vivid sense of the tumultuous times and the aspirations of the Chartists.
Furthermore, Carlyle's critique of the political establishment and the ruling elite reveals his empathy for the working-class struggle and his commitment to social justice. His exploration of the cultural and moral dimensions of Chartism adds depth to the historical analysis, making the book a rich resource for scholars interested in the intersection of politics, culture, and social movements.
While Carlyle's work offers a comprehensive analysis of Chartism, some critics argue that his perspective is colored by his own biases and prejudices. His elitist views and paternalistic tone have drawn criticism for overshadowing the agency and diverse perspectives of the working-class movement. A more nuanced examination of the internal divisions, ideological debates, and competing visions within Chartism would have enhanced the book's analytical breadth.
Additionally, scholars contend that Carlyle's limited engagement with the experiences and voices of women within Chartism neglects a crucial dimension of the movement. A more comprehensive analysis that incorporates the gendered aspects of the movement would provide a more nuanced understanding of its dynamics and goals.
"Chartism" holds significant importance within the fields of social history, political theory, and labor studies. Carlyle's examination of the Chartists' movement sheds light on the social and political struggles faced by the working class in nineteenth-century Britain. The book's enduring significance lies in its ability to contribute to scholarly debates, challenge prevailing narratives, and inspire further research on the intersections of class, politics, and social change.
"Chartism" by Thomas Carlyle provides a detailed and compelling analysis of the working-class movement in nineteenth-century Britain. Carlyle's meticulous research, vivid storytelling, and critical insights contribute to a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by the working class and the aspirations that drove the Chartists.
GPT
In "Chartism," Carlyle explores the origins and development of the Chartists' movement, highlighting the social and economic conditions that fueled discontent among the working class. He delves into the Chartists' demands for political reform, including universal suffrage, secret ballots, and the establishment of a people's charter. Carlyle examines the movement's leaders, the nature of their appeals, and the response of the ruling elite and the government.
One of the notable strengths of Carlyle's work lies in his meticulous research and vivid portrayal of the socio-political context of nineteenth-century Britain. He draws upon primary sources, historical events, and personal narratives to provide a nuanced understanding of the conditions that gave rise to Chartism and the diverse motivations behind its supporters. Carlyle's detailed analysis sheds light on the complexities of class struggle, political consciousness, and the aspirations of the working class during this period.
Carlyle's deep engagement with the primary sources and his ability to capture the spirit of the era make "Chartism" a valuable contribution to the understanding of working-class politics in nineteenth-century Britain. His vivid descriptions and evocative language provide readers with a vivid sense of the tumultuous times and the aspirations of the Chartists.
Furthermore, Carlyle's critique of the political establishment and the ruling elite reveals his empathy for the working-class struggle and his commitment to social justice. His exploration of the cultural and moral dimensions of Chartism adds depth to the historical analysis, making the book a rich resource for scholars interested in the intersection of politics, culture, and social movements.
While Carlyle's work offers a comprehensive analysis of Chartism, some critics argue that his perspective is colored by his own biases and prejudices. His elitist views and paternalistic tone have drawn criticism for overshadowing the agency and diverse perspectives of the working-class movement. A more nuanced examination of the internal divisions, ideological debates, and competing visions within Chartism would have enhanced the book's analytical breadth.
Additionally, scholars contend that Carlyle's limited engagement with the experiences and voices of women within Chartism neglects a crucial dimension of the movement. A more comprehensive analysis that incorporates the gendered aspects of the movement would provide a more nuanced understanding of its dynamics and goals.
"Chartism" holds significant importance within the fields of social history, political theory, and labor studies. Carlyle's examination of the Chartists' movement sheds light on the social and political struggles faced by the working class in nineteenth-century Britain. The book's enduring significance lies in its ability to contribute to scholarly debates, challenge prevailing narratives, and inspire further research on the intersections of class, politics, and social change.
"Chartism" by Thomas Carlyle provides a detailed and compelling analysis of the working-class movement in nineteenth-century Britain. Carlyle's meticulous research, vivid storytelling, and critical insights contribute to a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by the working class and the aspirations that drove the Chartists.
GPT
August 26, 2021
A surprisingly readable 180 year old book, Chartism provides fantastic political parallax across time, revealing the problems discussed in the 17th century are similar to today but skewed. Peering into this political time machine it appears issues fall to one political side or another randomly. This reading makes me reconsider if political views are primarily borne out of deep seated differences in principles, but rather social networks. We believe that which will least disturb our social connections and create discord, we then rationalize reasons for doing so. Political parties are a meta-phenomena of this. Carlyle held many repugnant views by the standards of today but I beseech you to reveal unto me an individual from that era without them. (anachronisms, self indulgent language, and pompous insights into human nature left intentionally for your displeasure)
June 26, 2022
A fairly interesting treatise on the matter of democracy and general social health of the British society in the 18th and 19th centuries. Basically, the main argument is that the democracy and general suffrage along with free market economy and Laissez-faire government practices are creating a dangerous self-supporting process to which more suffrage and more freedom are advertised as a cure. It explain Chartism and other suffrage and social reform movements as the direct result of certain policies of the preceding era that made the life of the lower classes worse while benefitting the higher ones, which is a pretty bold argument for the time it was written in. The book is composed in a bit of a baroque way with long sentences including a plead of metaphors, references to varying cultural phenomenons of its time which are a bit tedious to decipher at times, reading it almost two centuries later. It explains the problems well, but the solutions presented in the last chapter seem a bit lacklustre. Still, it is well worth reading if you're interested in critique of early capitalism and Victorian epoch.
August 6, 2019
An easy read and fun look into history and politics of 18th century England.
December 11, 2025
Delivered with the wrath of a Calvinist preacher.
March 23, 2014
The book is good, but the formatting stinks. They said this wasn't from an optical scan file. If so, why the errant running heads? Why all the typical optical sczn spelling errors?
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews