02177cam a22003253u 4500 13534 UtSlPG 20260610133323.0 m cr n 260607r2004||||utu|||||o|||||||||||||| d UtSlPG en iso639-1 PR Carlyle, Thomas, 1795-1881 Past and Present Salt Lake City, UT : Project Gutenberg, 2004 1 online resource : multiple file formats text txt rdacontent computer c rdamedia online resource cr rdacarrier There is an improved edition of this title, eBook #26159 Release date is 2004-09-27 Produced by Jake Jaqua “Past and Present” by Thomas Carlyle is a political and philosophical tract written during the mid-19th century. The work reflects on England's socio-political landscape, tackling themes of wealth, labor, and the moral responsibilities of both the rich and poor. Through a series of powerful observations and critiques, Carlyle aims to awaken the conscience of his contemporaries regarding their societal conditions. The opening of “Past and Present” sets the stage by highlighting the paradox of England’s prosperity and the stark reality of its impoverished workers. Carlyle draws a vivid picture of the unemployed, languishing in workhouses, and contrasts it with the wealth surrounding them, likening the situation to a form of enchantment that prevents them from benefiting from their labor. He uses allegorical references, such as King Midas and the Sphinx, to illustrate the dangers of superficiality and the necessity of acknowledging deeper truths. This portion not only emphasizes the urgency for meaningful reform but also critiques societal complacency and the moral consequences of neglecting the plight of the working class. (This is an automatically generated summary.) Original publication data not identified Social problems Great Britain -- Social conditions -- 19th century https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/13534 54923 54923