Prefaces, and Introduction On Taste Part I Summary and Analysis

Preface to the First Edition: Burke states that he conceived of and wrote this volume because he and others were "greatly at a loss" for a theory of our passions. Previous theories of beauty or the sublime are confusing and inaccurate, and "beauty" in particular has been an abused and too-general concept.

To fix this state of affairs, Burke will diligently examine passion, survey those things that influence passion, and investigate the laws of nature as they apply to passion.

Preface to the Second Edition: Burke has amended several portions of the original work, after conferring with friends and listening to what the public had to say about the first edition. However, he believes the central idea of the text is sound, and it remains untouched. Anything added is...