“All too often, Hobbes’s engagement with Scripture, revelation, and the possibility of miracles has been shunted to one side by readers focused on that great man’s political science and psychology. This scrupulously edited translation calls for a change of focus and enables it with abundant aid. Thanks to the exemplary rigor, clarity, and fearlessness of Strauss’s analysis, the neglected second half of Leviathan lies open for reconsideration. Many riches await those coming to it with freshly opened eyes.”

Ralph Lerner, University of Chicago

“This book sheds provocative light on Strauss’s analysis of the Hobbesian and Cartesian roots of modern rationalism in its response to the challenge of revealed religion.”

Thomas L. Pangle, University of Texas at Austin

“An indispensable resource for both students of early modern thought and for those interested in the thought of Leo Strauss. Strauss’s early essays on Hobbes address with remarkable force and directness key concerns of such well-known later works as Natural Right and History and What Is Political Philosophy? Strauss’s comparison of Hobbes and Descartes alone is well worth the price of admission. His analysis of parts 3 and 4 of Hobbes’s Leviathan is both painstaking in its detail and sweeping in its conclusions. Strauss’s early essays are a remarkable philosophic contribution in their own right and a significant aid to an understanding of Hobbes.”

Susan Meld Shell, Boston College

“This is a very impressive volume. Hobbes’s Critique of Religion and Related Writings will be a most welcome addition to the publications by and on Strauss.”

Richard L. Velkley, Tulane University