Abstract

In this excellent introductory study, Schulte provides a clear, concise account of Wittgenstein's life and works. Schulte captures the flavor of Wittgenstein's life: the passion and intensity, as well as the desire for solitude and loneliness which inform his writings. The first chapter presents a sensitive and thoughtful picture of Wittgenstein as a man who loved to make things. We suffer with Wittgenstein as he lives to see the suicides of three of his four brothers and contemplates suicide himself, and we feel gladdened when an uncle persuades Wittgenstein to choose a creative endeavor--the writing of his first book. Schulte portrays Wittgenstein in search of the "decent" life. His book is to be commended for introducing us to the Wittgenstein whose forceful personality so markedly colors his work.