Also included in Electronic Enlightenment, Ralph Leigh’s masterly edition in 52 volumes of Rousseau’s correspondence is the first and only available set that gathers together all 8,000 letters written to and by one of the most important figures of eighteenth-century intellectual history, as well as the correspondence between third parties relating to the writer and his time. Drafts and copies have been collated against the original manuscripts and all variants reproduced. The extensive annotations identify individuals, events and places, explain the linguistic usages of the eighteenth century, give bibliographical information and clarify obscure allusions.
‘The result of exceptional scholarly vigour, this edition brings into sharp focus the entire work of this major Enlightenment figure. The 7,000 letters paint a picture of the life of a most singular author, and reveal his fascinating interior dialogue. With huge research potential, the Correspondance continues to offer new and deeper insights into Rousseau and his time’ (Nathalie Ferrand, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique).
The Correspondence Complete De Rousseau can be ordered under this link.