Thomas Carlyle was one of the most influential commentators of the nineteenth century: writer, critic, historian, biographer and brilliant correspondent, he dominated his age. Described as `the greatest writer of his time' his Reminiscences lovingly trace the triumphs, sorrows, and achievements of his often turbulent marriage with Jane Welsh. Devastated by his wife's death, Carlyle set down his recollections of their life together with moving directness, in an account that reveals much about his own character. This is the only complete unabridged edition of his work, and a detailed introduction and notes further illumintate Carlyle's compelling and vivid prose.