The Atlantic Monthly, Volume 17, No. 100, February, 1866 / A Magazine of Literature, Science, Art, and Politics

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

21009

Title

The Atlantic Monthly, Volume 17, No. 100, February, 1866 / A Magazine of Literature, Science, Art, and Politics

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

This February 1866 issue of The Atlantic Monthly presents a diverse collection of essays and fiction. It features a candid analysis of English opinions on the American Civil War, a romantic narrative exploring class and character, a tribute to the free-trade advocate Richard Cobden, and a medical treatise on hair and scalp health. The volume balances political discourse with literary fiction and scientific inquiry.

Summary up to 500 words

Published in February 1866, Volume 17, No. 100 of *The Atlantic Monthly* presents a diverse collection of essays, fiction, and reviews reflecting the era's political and social currents. The volume opens with an essay by a London-based author of Italian heritage, who articulates a nuanced English perspective on the American Civil War. Writing as a sympathetic Northerner, he distinguishes between the abstract right of insurrection and the specific moral wrong of the Southern rebellion to preserve slavery. He argues that while the South possessed a theoretical right to secede, their motives rendered their cause unjust. The essay categorizes various English viewpoints, ranging from those who supported the North's sincerity to those prioritizing anti-slavery principles over strict constitutional rights. The fiction piece, "Court-Cards," follows the artist Mr. Locksley and his interactions with Miss Blunt, a schoolteacher. Their dialogue explores themes of social class, the nature of friendship, and the complexities of romantic attraction. Locksley is portrayed as aloof and satirical, while Miss Blunt is earnest and observant. The narrative includes a subplot involving Miss Blunt's father, the Captain, and a suitor named Mr. Johnson, capturing the nuances of social standing and the quiet disappointments of life. The story culminates in a moment of potential romance interrupted by the arrival of other characters. A biographical sketch of Richard Cobden follows, highlighting his role as the "Apostle of Free-Trade." The text details his efforts to abolish the Corn Laws, his friendship with John Bright, and his dedication to peace and education. It notes his financial sacrifices for public welfare and his opposition to Lord Palmerston. Cobden's speeches are quoted, emphasizing his belief in a free press, American education, and universal suffrage. Finally, the volume includes a medical review of Dr. B. C. Perry's book on hair and scalp diseases. Dr. Perry argues that hair is a delicate vegetable often damaged by harsh treatments like stiff brushes and hot water. He advocates for gentle care, cleanliness, and vegetable-based remedies, condemning the common nostrums of the day as filthy and mischievous. The book also discusses cutaneous diseases and constitutional debility affecting the scalp.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Periodicals