The Spectator's Account of Himself | Joseph Addison | Study Guide

Author: Joseph Addison

 

Year: 1711 (first published in The Spectator)

 

Type: Essay

 

Genre: Periodical essay, Satire

 

About "The Spectator's Account of Himself":

The Spectator's Account of Himself was founded by Joseph Addison in 1711. This essay provides readers with insight into the purpose and character of The Spectator, outlining its aims, principles, and intended audience.

 

Characters:

The Spectator: The collective pseudonym used by Joseph Addison, Richard Steele, and other contributors to The Spectator. In this context, "The Spectator" represents the persona through which the essays are presented to readers.

 

Summary:

In "The Spectator's Account of Himself," Addison and Steele adopt the persona of the fictional character Mr. Spectator, who serves as the narrator and central figure of the periodical. Mr. Spectator introduces himself to the readers, explaining his motivations for launching "The Spectator" and outlining the objectives of the publication.

Mr. Spectator describes "The Spectator" as a platform for examining various aspects of society and human behavior, with a focus on promoting virtue, morality, and civility. He emphasizes the importance of cultivating good manners, refined taste, and intellectual curiosity among readers, in order to elevate the cultural and moral standards of society.

Throughout the essay, Mr. Spectator reflects on the role of the periodical in shaping public opinion and fostering a sense of community among readers. He envisions "The Spectator" as a forum for open dialogue and exchange of ideas, where readers can engage with each other and with the writers in meaningful discussions on a wide range of topics.

Mr. Spectator also discusses the format and style of "The Spectator," which includes essays, letters, and fictional narratives, all written in an accessible and engaging manner. He highlights the importance of wit, humor, and storytelling in capturing the interest of readers and conveying moral lessons in an entertaining and thought-provoking way.

 

Symbols:

The Spectator: Symbolizes the collective voice of the authors and contributors behind the publication, representing their shared commitment to enlightening and entertaining readers.

Wit and humor: Serve as essential elements of The Spectator's style, helping to engage readers and convey complex ideas in an accessible manner.

Community: Symbolizes the sense of fellowship and camaraderie fostered among readers of The Spectator, who are united by their shared appreciation for the publication's content.

 

Themes:

Morality and virtue: The essay underscores The Spectator's commitment to promoting ethical principles and good behavior among its readership.

Social commentary: The Spectator aims to offer insightful observations on contemporary society, addressing various issues and trends of the time.

Unity and fellowship: Through its inclusive and engaging approach, The Spectator seeks to create a sense of community among its diverse audience.

 

In "The Spectator's Account of Himself," Addison and Steele establish the foundation for The Spectator as a publication dedicated to enriching the lives of its readers through wit, wisdom, and moral instruction. Through its engaging and thought-provoking essays, The Spectator seeks to entertain, enlighten, and unite its audience in pursuit of common values and ideals.