Tractatus in Context: The Essential Background for Appreciating Wittgenstein's Tractatus Logico-Philosophicus

Ludwig Wittgenstein's Tractatus Logico-Philosophicus (1922) is a significant philosophical work, but it lacks guidance for readers. James C. Klagge's Tractatus in Context provides the necessary background and insights into Wittgenstein's thoughts, including his early reactions, discussions, and correspondence with others, and his commentary on the book after its publication. The book offers a unique perspective on Wittgenstein's masterpiece, drawing on new or little-known sources and connecting the background context to specific passages.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 408 pages
\n Publication date: 30 September 2021
\n Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd
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Ludwig Wittgenstein's renowned Tractatus Logico-Philosophicus (1922) stands as one of the most significant philosophical works of the 20th century, yet it provides limited guidance for the reader. The initial encounter leaves the reader wondering about its essence, while scholars find themselves with scarce interpretative direction. To unravel the complexities of this profound text, James C. Klagge offers a comprehensive exploration in Tractatus in Context. This invaluable resource not only provides the historical background essential for understanding Wittgenstein's masterpiece but also includes the initial reviews written in 1922-1924. By delving into discussions and correspondence with others, as well as Wittgenstein's post-publication reflections expressed through letters, lectures, and conversations, Klagge presents a unique perspective—an interpretation that reflects Wittgenstein's thoughts on the Tractatus itself.

Key Features:
1. Illumination: Tractatus in Context sheds light on the central stakes of the Tractatus by presenting the perspectives of those who engaged Wittgenstein during its composition. It unveils the influences and inspirations that shaped Wittgenstein's ideas, offering a deeper understanding of the philosophical terrain upon which the Tractatus stands.
2. Earlier Thoughts: The book incorporates Wittgenstein's earlier thoughts on the ideas present in the Tractatus, as recorded in his notebooks, letters, and conversations. It provides a glimpse into the genesis of these ideas, shedding light on the development of Wittgenstein's philosophical framework.
3. Retrospective Comments: In addition to his earlier reflections, Tractatus in Context also includes Wittgenstein's later, retrospective comments on the ideas he explored in the Tractatus. These comments offer a fresh perspective on the text, highlighting its enduring significance and relevance.
4. New or Little-Known Sources: Klagge draws upon a wealth of new or little-known sources, including Wittgenstein's coded notebooks, Hermine's notes, Frege's letters, Hänsel's diary, Ramsey's notes, and Skinner's dictations. These sources provide valuable insights into Wittgenstein's thought processes and the broader context in which the Tractatus was written.
5. Proposition-by-Proposition Commentary: The book employs a proposition-by-proposition commentary, which meticulously examines the text section by section. It connects the background context to specific passages in the Tractatus, facilitating a deeper comprehension of the philosophical arguments and ideas presented therein.

By exploring the Tractatus in the context of its historical, intellectual, and personal influences, Tractatus in Context offers a comprehensive and insightful journey into the mind of Ludwig Wittgenstein. It serves as a valuable resource for scholars, students, and anyone seeking to delve deeper into the complexities of this influential philosophical work.

\n Weight: 618g\n
Dimension: 152 x 229 x 29 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9780367465568\n \n