This edition of the classic 18th century periodical The Spectator features a biographical and critical preface by noted scholar G. Gregory Smith and explanatory notes throughout. The Spectator was a hugely influential publication in its time and remains a fascinating look at 18th century English society and culture. This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work is in the "public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.