SELECTED FROM THE WRITINGS OF JOHN RUSKIN WITH INTRODUCTORY INTERPRETATIONS AND ANNOTATIONS This fair tree Igdrasil of Human Art can only flourish EDITED BY MRS. LOIS G. HUFFORD TEACHER OF ENGLISH LITERATURE IN THE HIGH SCHOOL OF BOSTON, U.S.A. PUBLISHED BY GINN & COMPANY 1894 + 88.78530 Harvard University, TRANSFERRED TO HARVARD COLLEGE LIBRARY COPYRIGHT, 1894 By LOIS G. HUFFORD ALL RIGHTS RESERVED Company PREFACE. If it be true that "Literature is a criticism of life," then the writings of John Ruskin deserve to rank high. The papers included in this volume are characteristic expressions of Mr. Ruskin's views on social questions and ethics as applied to all life. His searching examination of conduct and the motives that control the average man in private and public life tend to awaken dissatisfaction with low ideals, and to elevate the standards of personal and social virtue. The main introduction is intended to give briefly (1) Mr. Ruskin's theory of life and art; (2) a sketch of his own life showing what influences contributed to the formation of his character; and (3) the characteristics of his literary style. The special introductions are intended as a concise summary of the individual essays and letters. The text used is that of Mr. Ruskin's authorized English edition. It is hoped that this introduction to one of the most stimulating writers of the present century will prove so helpful and inspiring as to lead to a more intimate acquaintance. INDIANAPOLIS, IND., L. G. H. |