Patriotic Book Explores 'Inner Jefferson'
Jon Stone, Staff Writer
June 29, 2000, 11:35 a.m. EDT
Thomas Jefferson, being one of the better known founding fathers, was a complex individual and a man of vision. Author Andrew Burstein goes into the mind of Jefferson and examines his life trials.
Burstein portrays Jefferson as a man who goes from deep despair to unlimited optimistic vision. His concepts and experiences are covered in many aspects in the book, from losing his wife to founding the University of Virginia to cataloging the wildlife on Monticello Estate.
Jefferson conceptualized America as being a nation of agrarian communities: people would live in vast farms with a limited government.
In regards to government, Burstein writes that Jefferson regarded cities as corrupt and regressive. His respect for young America's wilderness extended to honoring Native Americans, who he thought could integrate into the American equation. These ideals were in vast contrast to his contemporaries.
"Inner Jefferson" is an interesting examination of one of this nation's founders but, because it is an intense read, the book might be better taken in doses.
In the end, the narrative illustrates how Jefferson's work and life are still strong in the venue of ideas.
The Inner Jefferson: Portrait of a Grieving Optimist
Written by Andrew Burstein
University Press of Virginia
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