Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr.
Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr. was an American physician, poet, and polymath based in Boston. A member of the Fireside Poets, his peers acclaimed him as one of the best writers of the day. His most famous prose works are the 'Breakfast-Table' series, which began with 'The Autocrat of the Breakfast-Table.' He was also an important medical reformer. Born on August 29, 1809, he was the father of Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr., an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States.
Books
This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.
-
1. The Common Law
"The Common Law" is a seminal work that explores the historical development and underlying principles of the common law system, which originated in England and became the foundation for the legal system in the United States and many other former British colonies. The book delves into the evolution of legal concepts over time, examining how laws adapt to social needs and the influence of moral judgments on legal decisions. It discusses the role of precedent and judicial interpretation, and it emphasizes the importance of experience and practical outcomes in shaping the law. The author, a renowned legal scholar and Supreme Court Justice, provides a deep analysis of topics such as liability, criminal law, and property rights, offering insights into the logic and changing nature of legal rules.
The 5935th Greatest Book of All Time -
2. Elsie Venner
The novel follows the life of a young woman who, due to a prenatal snakebite, exhibits serpent-like characteristics that influence her behavior and relationships. Set in a small New England town, the story explores themes of sin, guilt, and redemption as the protagonist struggles with her dual nature and the townspeople react to her with a mix of fear, fascination, and sympathy. Through a blend of romance, tragedy, and philosophical musings, the narrative delves into the complexities of human nature and the influence of heredity and environment on one's character.
The 6293rd Greatest Book of All Time -
3. The Autocrat Of The Breakfast Table
"The Autocrat of the Breakfast Table" is a collection of essays presented as a series of table talks among the residents of a New England boarding house. Through the voice of the charming and insightful Autocrat, the author explores a wide range of topics, from love and philosophy to society and human nature. The essays are interspersed with poems and witty observations, providing a rich tapestry of thought and language. The work, characterized by its conversational style and intellectual depth, captures the essence of American life and thought in the mid-19th century.
The 6737th Greatest Book of All Time -
4. Holmes Laski Letters
The book is a collection of correspondence between a prominent American Supreme Court Justice and a distinguished British political theorist, spanning from 1916 to 1935. These letters provide a deep insight into their personal philosophies, political views, and responses to contemporary events, including World War I and the Great Depression. The exchange reveals a profound intellectual friendship that influenced both men's thoughts and writings, offering readers a unique perspective on early 20th-century legal and political thought.
The 8697th Greatest Book of All Time
