Table-Talk · Chapter
Endnotes explained
The endnotes provide a collection of references, anecdotes, and clarifications that support the main text, including literary allusions, historical notes, and personal reflections on art, criticism, and society.
What happens
The endnotes provide a collection of references, anecdotes, and clarifications that support the main text, including literary allusions, historical notes, and personal reflections on art, criticism, and society.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Resolution.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This passage marks the dramatic climax because it reveals the central psychological reversal: the lady who sco…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Criticism and Critical Practice
The endnotes include critiques of actors, artists, and writers, reflecting on the nature of critical judgment.
- Fame, Reputation, and Public Opinion
Anecdotes about King George III's opinion of Claremont and the public reception of actors illustrate themes of reputation.
- The Psychology of Habit and Novelty
Notes on the psychology of gambling and the persistence of passion in achieving goals touch on habit and novelty.
Characters to notice
- William Hazlitt
Authorial voice throughout the endnotes, providing commentary and personal anecdotes.
- Mr. Munden
Mentioned in an anecdote about visiting King George III at Windsor.
- Mr. Claremont
Mentioned alongside Munden in the Windsor anecdote.
- Master Betty
Recalled in a personal anecdote about an evening spent together discussing acting.
- Dr. Wolcot
Mentioned for discovering and critiquing the painter Opie.
- Benjamin Constant
Referenced in a note about Bonaparte and political maneuvering.
- Sir Joshua Reynolds
Quoted and discussed in notes on art and criticism.
- Mr. Mudford
Mentioned in a note about theatrical criticism and personal rivalry.
Key passages
“their odour from the scent of rose leaves inserted between the pages, and their polish from the smoothness of the paper on which they are printed.”
Their fragrance comes from rose leaves placed between the pages, and their shine from the smooth paper they are printed on.
Describes the superficial qualities of certain writers.
“We sometimes see a whole playhouse in tears. But the audience at a theatre, though a public assembly, are not a public body.”
We occasionally see an entire theater crying. However, the audience, while a public gathering, is not a unified public entity.
Distinguishes between a collective audience and a corporate body.
“Where there is a will, there is a way. A real passion, an entire devotion to any object, always succeeds.”
If there is determination, there is a path. True passion and complete dedication to a goal always lead to success.
Emphasizes the power of will and passion in achieving objectives.
