The Martyrdom of Man is a philosophical and historical book written by Winwood Reade. Published in 1872, the book is a comprehensive study of human history, from the earliest known civilizations to the modern era. Reade's central argument is that the history of mankind is a story of struggle and sacrifice, and that the progress of humanity has been achieved through the martyrdom of countless individuals who have given their lives for the cause of human advancement.The book is divided into several chapters, each of which ...
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The Martyrdom of Man is a philosophical and historical book written by Winwood Reade. Published in 1872, the book is a comprehensive study of human history, from the earliest known civilizations to the modern era. Reade's central argument is that the history of mankind is a story of struggle and sacrifice, and that the progress of humanity has been achieved through the martyrdom of countless individuals who have given their lives for the cause of human advancement.The book is divided into several chapters, each of which explores a different period of history. Reade begins with the prehistoric era, discussing the early development of human societies and the emergence of religion. He then moves on to the ancient civilizations of Egypt, Greece, and Rome, examining their political and social structures, as well as their contributions to art, literature, and philosophy.Reade's focus then shifts to the Middle Ages, a period he sees as marked by religious fanaticism and oppression. He discusses the rise of Christianity and its impact on European society, as well as the Crusades and the Inquisition. He also examines the Renaissance and the Enlightenment, two periods of intellectual and cultural awakening that paved the way for modernity.Throughout the book, Reade emphasizes the importance of individual freedom and the need for human progress. He argues that the sacrifices made by martyrs throughout history have been instrumental in advancing the cause of humanity, and that it is the duty of each generation to continue this legacy. He also explores the role of science and reason in human progress, and the dangers of superstition and dogmatism.Overall, The Martyrdom of Man is a thought-provoking and insightful exploration of human history and the struggle for progress. Reade's writing is engaging and accessible, making this book a valuable resource for anyone interested in philosophy, history, or the human condition.1923. The author commenced this book intending to prove that Negroland or Inner Africa is not cut off from the mainstream of events as writers of philosophical history have always maintained, but that it is connected by means of Islam with the lands of the East, and also that it has, by means of the slave trade, powerfully influenced the moral history of Europe, and the political history of the United States.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.
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I bought this book because of the regard in which it was held by Ludovic Kennedy. It was also esteemed by H G Wells, Churchill & Michael Foot, but I ,personally, find it quite exceptionally heavy going, although I am determined to finish it. It is not without arresting comments, but it is perhaps handicapped by the fact that it was published as long ago as 1872 and scholarship has moved on since then, the author's style also now seeming decidedly old-fashioned.
Dennis Goffin
Chorleywood UK
