One of the landmark works of the eighteenth century, De L'Esprit des Lois had an immeasurable influence on jurisprudence and political thought, especially in America.

Explores the essentials of good government; compares and contrasts despotism, monarchy, and democracy; and discusses the factors that lead to the corruption of governments; education of the citizenry, crime and punishment, abuse of power ...

With biting satire they compare East and West, while unsettling news from the harem provides a suspenseful plot of jealousy and passion. This is the first English translation based on the original text.