The Wodrow-Kenrick Correspondence 1750-1810

This book offers a deep dive into the correspondence between Samuel Kenrick and Reverend James Wodrow, showcasing British Enlightenment culture.

In The Wodrow-Kenrick Correspondence 1750-1810, readers are invited to explore the rich and extensive correspondence between Samuel Kenrick and Reverend James Wodrow. Meeting as students at the University of Glasgow in the 1740s, their friendship blossomed through letters exchanged over six decades, from 1750 until Wodrow's death in 1810. This volume, which covers the years 1750-1783, offers a unique glimpse into British culture and society during the Enlightenment period. The surviving letters, which make up approximately 85% of their correspondence, are preserved in Dr Williams's Library, London, and provide invaluable insights into the thoughts and concerns of two highly literate men of their time.

The letters between Kenrick and Wodrow touch upon a myriad of topics, including politics, religion, and the significant revolutions of their era. Their discussions are not only lively but also reflect the intellectual climate of the time, showcasing their differing opinions, especially regarding the American and French Revolutions. This exchange of ideas highlights their commitment to exploring complex societal issues and reveals the dynamics of their friendship, which primarily unfolded through written correspondence after Kenrick moved to England in 1765.

The Wodrow-Kenrick Correspondence 1750-1810 stands as a remarkable resource for scholars and anyone interested in the Enlightenment. It emphasizes the importance of letter writing as a means of maintaining relationships and intellectual discourse across distances and decades. The correspondence serves as a testament to the enduring nature of friendship and the exchange of ideas during a transformative period in history.