Speaking of Thomas Jefferson –

Posted on February 9, 2005 by sheila

If you’re interested in the guy, and in reading a WONDERFUL book about him … pick up American Sphinx: The Character of Thomas Jefferson, by Joseph Ellis.

It’s not a typical biography. It’s not really a biography at all. It’s more of a contemplation, I would say … a contemplation on “the character of Thomas Jefferson”. Ellis doesn’t start with: “Thomas Jefferson was born a poor black child …” or whatever. Ellis is more interested in delving into the Sphinx-like nature of Jefferson, why he still has such a hold on the American imagination, even with all his contradictions, and Ellis is able to LIVE with those contradictions, rather than trying to explain them away, or take sides (like sooo many historians do. “I agree with THIS aspect of Jefferson’s personality … and so THAT is obviously the REAL Jefferson”. Thomas Jefferson is a mystery wrapped in an enigma. While we do know quite a bit about him, anyone who claims to say they have found the real Thomas Jefferson should not be trusted.)

Ellis has proven time and time again that even though he is a historian, he is quite capable of saying, flat-out, “You know, there is only so much we can actually know. I have no idea of what Thomas Jefferson was thinking at this point … but let’s take a look at the context of those turbulent months.” He’s all about context. And from there? You’re just guessing.

Also, it doesn’t hurt that Ellis is a lovely writer.

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7 Responses to Speaking of Thomas Jefferson –

  1. David says:
    February 9, 2005 at 11:56 pm

    Borrowed Founding Brothers, read it, ordered it, ordered American Sphinx, ordered the George Washington book. Also looking for his book on Westpoint as it is out of print however my faithful source ABEBooks will find a used copy for me. You got me going with your report on Founding Brothers. Do you think I’m Made of Money??? Right now I’m chewing my way through Isaiah Berlin The Enemies of Liberty and Four Essays on Liberty. I’d send you copies but I spent all my cash on Ellis. David

  2. JFH says:
    February 10, 2005 at 8:32 am

    David-
    That’s the advantage of being a popular blogger; Shiela gets other people to buy her books. ;)

  3. red says:
    February 10, 2005 at 8:38 am

    David:

    hahahahaha I am so proud that I have brought you to this state!!

  4. dad says:
    February 10, 2005 at 9:03 am

    Dearest: my exercise bike reading at present is Founding Brothers. I agree, Ellis is a fine writer. love, dad

  5. David says:
    February 10, 2005 at 9:22 am

    Keep on Bikin’ Pops!

  6. red says:
    February 10, 2005 at 10:47 am

    dad –

    I loved that book!

    Can’t wait to see you this weekend.

  7. Ed says:
    February 10, 2005 at 12:29 pm

    …Ellis doesn’t start with: “Thomas Jefferson was born a poor black child …”

    That’s funny…on so many levels. Thanks for the review! The book is now next on my list…

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