Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel: The Giants of Philosophy

I suspect I will have the same thing to say about all of the books in this series, as they are all narrated by Charlton Heston and are similar in quality. These books are a lot of fun as they are concise, easy to understand, clear on the main points, and masterfully read. The recording is also excellent. Although my political leanings kept me from being excited about downloading a book read by Charlton Heston, I have to admit that he has a style and flair that make the books very listenable. The "European" accented readings of other philosophers by other actors are a little cheesy at first, but do help with the atmosphere.

This is one of the best introductions to Hegel’s thought that I have encountered in over twenty years of reading Hegel. It is challenging and requires effort of the listener to work through the outline, but in the end, a very clear picture of Hegel’s overall thought is developed. This is in no way a watered-down account. The lecture deals with Hegel’s most important and difficult ideas: dialectic, his critique of the understanding, the organic and developmental nature of concepts, Hegel’s view of the state, Hegel’s understanding of art, religion, and philosophy, as well as the critiques off Kierkegaard, Schopenhauer, and Marx. The author challenges the listener to think through Hegel’s arguments without ever becoming tedious or too opaque (we are talking about Hegel). Charlton Heston’s voice is perfect for easing one through the difficult nature of Hegel’s thought (forget about his politics!) The accents are corny, but the selections of readings are perfect and compliment the course itself. This recording is more than well worth the two hours and five dollars spent.

George Hegel...what a treat. If you have even a remote interest in one of the great philosophical leaders, you owe it to yourself to procure this particular work. Just a fine introduction to Hegel's works and philosophy.

The use of a pseudo German accent for Hegel was not only annoying but completely inept. The accent and the rhythm made these quotes practically useless. Heston was excellent. I am not sure why those who record philosophy feel the need to make the philosophers prigs. Hegel is difficult enough without providing a well paced easily understood voice for the presentation. A philosophical analysis should not feel the need to be high school drama.

I will serious reconsider trying any more philosophical tracts.

Heston in his own voice was excellent

Anger and annoyance.

The Fake German accent is so silly as make me laugh. It completely negates the quality of the underlying writing by Hegel.

Too bad, since I am a fan of Heston the narrator.

It is very hard to evaluate this introduction to Hegel - the lecture itself seems for now to be fine - but don't underestimate the importance of what another reviewer said: The passages by Hegel - which are crucial for understanding of the lecture - are read in an absolutely idiotic fake German accent. It is almost impossible to concentrate on the meaning of the passages and the entire lecture sounds like a farce.