Born on December 4, 1795, in Galloway, Scotland, Thomas Carlyle grew up to become a philosopher, essayist, historian, along with many other professions. Growing up his father was a stern Calvinist, thus greatly influencing Carlyle’s later philosophies. Throughout his childhood he had always been recognized for his ability in academics and at the age of 14 entered the University of Edinburgh pursuing a career in military. Later as he explored the fields of mathematics and teaching he would eventually settle for a career in writing. In 1826 Carlyle wed Jane Welsh, a fellow aficionado. They remained married for 40 years and much of their relationship is chronicled in an abundance of letters. As Carlyle began to publish his essays, the couple decided to move to London. In Carlyle’s later life he became an essayist and in the mid-1830s, he published one of his well known works, “Sartor Resartus.” Carlyle’s “Sartor Resartus” was published in Fraser’s Magazine, which was later converted to a book format. His next publication was in 1837, “The French Revolution,” a novel which brought him great fame. After publishing his works, Carlyle became a top literary figure in Victorian England. His works was defined by the hierarchical order and God- bound duty which was a constant recurring theme in his works. After the death of his beloved, Carlyle mourned her death for many years. Carlyle died on February 5, 1881, in London, England and was buried adjoining his parent’s remains in Scotland. Many of his significant works are reissued and are taught all over the world to a variety of different people. Thomas Carlyle's “Great Man Theory” sets forth certain criteria that The Great Man must fit, which includes: their action must be intentional, in that it was not simply accidental, including the accompaniment of a vision that illustrates how their actions will be beneficial in the furthering of societal goals, and also that this man must be able to be held responsible for the good that comes about through these actions. Both Alexander and Julius Caesar are Great Men according to Carlyle's theory, but Augustus is the "greater” Great Man. Augustus lives long enough to see his vision fulfilled and in doing so demonstrates that his vision was truly his intention after all. However, by not recognizing how well the achievements of Alexander and Caesar were set up for them, Carlyle's theory is short sighted and may end up giving greater value to their "visions  than is deserved. Thomas Carlyle's Great Man Theory attempts to explain the way different ages in history have been brought about by the hands of Great Men. In his theory, he argues that all ages have a potential and that most of the time they are not realized, but when they are they are realized with the help of these Great Men. Combining his interest in history and a focus on individuals, the six lectures expand the conception o