This collection brings together a curated selection of essays from two pioneering eighteenth-century periodicals, "The Tatler" and "The Spectator." Conceived and written by Joseph Addison and Richard Steele, these essays offer insightful, witty, and often moralistic observations on society, manners, and literature of their time. Through a blend of satire, criticism, and instruction, the authors aimed to both entertain and edify their readers, promoting virtues such as charity, friendship, and honesty. Their work not only reflects the intellectual and cultural milieu of early 1700s England but also significantly contributed to the development of English prose and the periodical essay as a literary form.

The book is a detailed and candid collection of personal diaries, offering an intimate glimpse into the life and times of the 18th-century Scottish writer. It chronicles his experiences, observations, and reflections, ranging from his ambitious legal career and lively social life to his travels and interactions with notable figures of his era. Renowned for its rich portrayal of the author's personality and the social mores of the period, the journals provide a valuable historical account, as well as a deep exploration of the author's inner world, his aspirations, insecurities, and intellectual pursuits.

This compilation brings together the diverse works of a notable 19th-century English essayist, known for his rich autobiographical narratives and insightful literary criticism. The collection spans a variety of topics, from personal confessions about his opium addiction to musings on murder, philosophy, and economics. The author's intricate prose and psychological depth offer readers a profound look into the human condition, as well as the social and cultural milieu of his time. His most famous piece within this anthology delves into the profound effects of drug dependency on the human psyche, a groundbreaking and candid exploration for its era.