Peter Mark Roget

“Peter Mark Roget” by Nick Rennison is a comprehensive biography of the man who created one of the most enduring reference works in the English language. The book provides a fascinating insight into Roget’s life and work, as well as the cultural and intellectual context in which he lived.

Early Life and Education

The book begins by exploring Roget’s early life and education. Born into a wealthy and intellectually curious family, Roget showed an early aptitude for language and mathematics. He studied medicine at the University of Edinburgh, where he was exposed to the latest scientific and philosophical ideas of the time.

Roget’s Classification System

One of the most interesting aspects of Roget’s life was his lifelong fascination with the classification of knowledge. The book delves into the development of Roget’s classification system, which was base on the idea that all knowledge could be organize into a series of hierarchical categories.

Creation of Roget’s Thesaurus

The book also provides a detailed account of the creation of Roget’s Thesaurus. Rennison explores the intellectual and cultural context in which Roget was working, as well as the specific challenges that he faced in compiling the book. He also delves into the reception of the book, both in Roget’s own time and in the years since its publication.

Legacy of Roget’s Thesaurus

The book also explores the legacy of Roget’s Thesaurus. Rennison discusses the many ways in which the book has influenced the English language, as well as its impact on fields such as linguistics and computer science. He also looks at the continuing relevance of Roget’s ideas about the classification of knowledge, and their potential applications in a variety of fields.

Writing Style and Research

Rennison’s writing style is clear and engaging, making the book an accessible and enjoyable read. He has clearly do extensive research into Roget’s life and work, and the book is fill with fascinating anecdotes and insights. Rennison also provides a detailed bibliography and references, making it easy for readers to explore the sources for themselves.

Conclusion

Overall, “Peter Mark Roget” is an excellent biography of one of the most fascinating figures in the history of the English language. Rennison’s book provides a comprehensive and engaging account of Roget’s life and work, as well as the wider intellectual and cultural context in which he lived. It is a must-read for anyone interest in the history of language and ideas.