Who Was He: German philosopher, one of the founders of German Idealism. Career Highlights: Phenomenology of Spirit (1807) and Elements of the Philosophy of Right (1822). Hegels use of dialectics and writings on the relationship between the state and society were hugely controversial and influential, having a particular impact on the young Karl Marx (more on him later). Context of Last Words: When Hegel was working at the University of Berlin, a cholera epidemic hit the city in August 1831 causing him and his family to flee. Hegel returned in October, believing that the epidemic had subsided and keen to begin teaching again, but by November he was dead. Last Words: Delivered to his favourite student: only you have ever understood me and you got it wrong.
Freelance copywriter, film buff, community radio presenter. Former host of The Movie Hour podcast (http://www.lionheartradio.com/ and click 'Interviews'), currently presenting on Phonic FM in Exeter (http://www.phonic.fm/). Other loves include theatre, music and test cricket.
