this volume provides background on the historical context of Bacon's essays and emphasizes their significance in the evolution of Western thought. It outlines the development of the essays from their first publication in 1597, through various editions that expanded their scope and depth. The preface illustrates Bacon's intention to reflect on human experience and moral philosophy, while the "Wisdom of the Ancients" section delves into mythological bases and fables, interpreting them as valuable lessons on human behavior and societal norms. Overall, the beginning sets the stage for a collection that aims to blend civil wisdom with practical morality, encouraging readers to reflect on their own lives through Bacon's insightful observations. (This is an automatically generated summary.)