The original was published in 1762. This American edition was based on the 1823 abridgment published in London. An American 19th century abridgment of 18th century textbook on literary criticism by the Scottish Enlightenment scholar Henry Home, Lord Kames. Explores the role of human nature in literary composition and criticism, particularly the emotions and passions. It also covers aesthetic concerns and forms such as beauty, sublimity, risible objects, congruity and propriety, dignity and grace, ridicule, wit, comparisons, narration and description, epic and dramatic composition, and standard of taste. Includes review questions. The Schultz Archive copy includes the TOC, the introduction, and the chapter on narration and description.