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Cover of The Tatler, Volume 1

The Tatler, Volume 1

Written by Richard Steele,Joseph Addison

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Great BritainEnglish essaysEnglish wit and humor

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About this book

"The Tatler, Volume 1" by Sir Richard Steele and Joseph Addison is a collection of essays and articles written in the early 18th century. This periodical, which began publication in 1709, aimed to offer commentary on social manners, public affairs, and domestic life, while also providing entertainment for its readers. It is famously associated with its fictional editor, Isaac Bickerstaff, who critiques society, discusses contemporary topics, and shares personal anecdotes. The opening of "The Tatler" introduces the concept of a paper designed to engage and enlighten its audience. Steele outlines his goal to serve both as a source of news and entertainment, particularly for women, and presents himself as an astute observer of the human condition. The first articles illustrate various scenes and character sketches from London life, including humorous tales of a lovesick gentleman and theatrical performances, all enlivened by wit and social commentary. As such, the publication seeks to pull back the curtain on the follies and vices present in society, while promoting virtues like simplicity and authenticity.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in The Tatler, Volume 1, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 12 hours
  • intermediate
  • humorous
  • witty
  • observational

"The Tatler, Volume 1" is the inaugural collection of essays and articles from the influential early 18th-century periodical, co-authored by Sir Richard Steele and Joseph Addison. Published under the guise of the fictional editor Isaac Bickerstaff, the work offers a vibrant tapestry of social commentary, political musings, and moral instruction, all presented with keen wit and observational humor. It aims to both entertain and enlighten its readers by dissecting contemporary London life, critiquing societal follies, and advocating for virtues like authenticity and simplicity. Through diverse vignettes and character sketches, the volume establishes "The Tatler" as a significant voice in the burgeoning public sphere, shaping public opinion and literary taste.

“"The general purpose of this paper is to expose the false arts of life, to pull off the disguises of cunning, vanity, and affectation, and to recommend a general simplicity in our dress, our discourse, and our behavior."”

Key themes

Social Critique and Satire
This is the bedrock of "The Tatler." The authors, through Bickerstaff, relentlessly lampoon the follies, affectations, and vices of early 18th-century society. They target everything from the absurdities of fashion and dueling to the pretenses of false learning and political corruption, using humor and irony to expose societal shortcomings and provoke self-reflection.
Manners and Morality
A core aim of "The Tatler" is to instruct its readers in proper conduct and virtue. Bickerstaff frequently advocates for simplicity, authenticity, good sense, and honor, contrasting these virtues with the affectations and moral laxity he observes. The essays often serve as gentle didactic pieces, guiding readers towards a more refined and ethical way of living.
The Power of the Press and the Public Sphere
"The Tatler" itself is a testament to this theme. It demonstrates how a periodical could create a 'public sphere'—a space for rational-critical debate and the formation of public opinion, accessible to a broader readership than ever before. Bickerstaff consciously uses his paper to inform, entertain, and influence, highlighting the nascent power of print media to shape cultural and political discourse.

Worth discussing

How does the persona of Isaac Bickerstaff enhance the effectiveness of "The Tatler"'s social critique?

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