Hegel: The Philosopher of Freedom

A new biography of Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel paints a vivid portrait of his life and work, providing readers with an intimate account of his times and the milieu in which he developed his thought. It highlights Hegel's relevance for today, depicting him as a vital figure in the history of philosophy.

Format: Hardback
Length: 488 pages
Publication date: 12 December 2023
Publisher: Stanford University Press

A remarkable new biography delves into the life and work of a pivotal yet often overlooked pioneer in modern philosophy. When a painter once confided in Goethe, expressing his aspiration to capture the most renowned figure of his time, Goethe guided him toward Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel. Hegel embraced the belief that to philosophize was to cultivate the art of living freely. While his philosophical development unfolded at a deliberate pace, his intellectual journey resembled an odyssey of the mind, filled with twists, turns, suspense, and even moments of danger.

In this groundbreaking biography, philosopher Klaus Vieweg presents a fresh perspective on the life and ideas of the foremost representative of German idealism. Through his vivid portrayal, readers gain an intimate insight into Hegel's era and the milieu that shaped his thought. Detailed and insightful analyses of Hegel's four major works accompany this narrative, offering a new interpretation of the philosopher through the lens of reason and freedom.

Vieweg's research, conducted through extensive archival exploration, has unearthed a wealth of previously undiscovered documents and handwritten notes related to Hegel's work. This research sheds light on Hegel's engagements with prominent thinkers and writers of his era, including Kant, Fichte, Schelling, Hölderlin, and others. By challenging prevailing misconceptions and misunderstandings about Hegel, Vieweg also provides a robust defense of the philosopher's more progressive impulses.

Upon its release in Germany, this monumental work received widespread acclaim, being hailed as setting a new standard in biographical writing. It emphasizes Hegel's enduring relevance for contemporary times, portraying him as a vital figure in the history of philosophy.

Weight: 804g
Dimension: 164 x 237 x 32 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781503630574