CHAPTER XI.

ENGLISH ESSAYISTS OF THE GEORGIAN ERA.

Early Essayists whose Writings have furnished Thackeray with the Accessories of Portions of his Novels and Lectures -- Works from the Novelist's Library, elucidating his Course of Reading for the Preparation of his 'Lectures' -- 'Henry Esmond,' 'The Virginians,' &c. -- Characteristic Passages from the Lucubrations of the Essayists of the Augustan Era illustrated with original Marginal Sketches, suggested by the Text, by Thackeray's hand -- The 'Tatler' -- Its History and Influence -- Reforms introduced by the purer Style of the Essayists -- The Literature of Queen Anne's Reign -- Thackeray's Love for the Writings of the Period -- His Gift of reproducing their masterly and simple style of Composition; their Irony, and playful Humour -- Extracts from notable Essays; illustrated with original Pencillings from the Series of the 'Tatler,' 1709 221