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  • Essay / The Fourth Earl of Orford: Horace Wolpole - 1046

    In the book Letters of Horace Walpole, author Toynbee has collected a collection of letters written by Horace Walpole, the fourth Earl of Orford. In this volume, Walpole wrote to numerous acquaintances ranging from reverends to dukes between 1771 and 1774. Horace Walpole, a Whig man of letters and politician, was the son of the first Prime Minister Robert Walpole (Langford). He is most famous for his letters which he wrote at his house in Strawberry Hill (Langford). In it, Walpole writes to the Earl of Strafford. The Earl of Strafford, named William Wentworth, was an English nobleman from the 1700s. In this message to the Earl of Strafford, Horace Walpole provides in-depth insight into the Englishman's thoughts and ideals in the 18th century. Written on June 20, 1771 at Strawberry Hill, Horace Walpole transcribed to the Earl of Strafford before he left for his trip to Paris. Walpole opens by stating: “I have been waiting impatiently, my dear Lord, for something worth putting into a letter; but trees do not speak in Parliament” (Toynbee, 47). This shows how actively he listened for any valuable news to send to the Count. Walpole then begins to discuss his intentions for his trip to Paris. He originally mentions that the purpose of this trip is to visit a blind friend named Madame du Deffand (Toynbee, 47). Once he has declared the purpose of his trip to Paris, Walpole then asks the Earl and Lady of Strafford if there are any matters they would like him to attend to during his trip. With the subject of Paris raised, Walpole then turns to the political situation in France. He shares his ideas on how he thinks their current government will not...... middle of paper ...... and reinforces this through the examples provided above, also by explaining how he is unhappy to see foreign nobles. This source not only provides insight into the minds of the British nobility regarding their views on France, but also provides insight into the social hierarchy of the 18th century. By the way Walpole speaks to the Earl of Strafford, he presents himself as his servant and ready to carry out whatever tasks are asked of him during his journey. This gives valuable insight into the lifestyle of those below their acquaintances in the hierarchy by showing how they are willing to help members of the aristocracy improve themselves and hopefully increase their position in the future. Written from friend to friend, Walpole clearly shows his admiration and loyalty to the earl and gives a wonderful understanding of 18th century England..