"Critical and Historical Essays — Volume 2" by Thomas Babington Macaulay is a collection of essays published in 1843. Originally appearing in the Edinburgh Review over twenty years, these pieces cover major historical and literary figures from Milton to Addison. Macaulay's essays became enormously popular across the English-speaking world for their brilliant, lucid style and sweeping perspectives. However, they also drew criticism for their rigid Whig interpretation of history and occasional inaccuracy. The collection showcases Macaulay's gift for creating interest while revealing his unshakeable opinions and advocacy. (This is an automatically generated summary.)