This volume, Vorlesungen über die Philosophie des Rechts IV: Anhang (Lectures on the Philosophy of Right IV: Appendix), serves as a supplementary text to Hegel’s Lectures on the Philosophy of Right, providing an addition to Hegel’s lectures on law, ethics, and the state. As the concluding fourth volume to the three-part edition (GW 26,1–3), it includes an “Editorial Report” and extensive notes that further illuminate Hegel’s philosophy.
The volume opens with a section on symbols, sigla, and abbreviations, offering readers a guide to the shorthand and notation used throughout the work. The “Editorial Report” provides an in-depth account of the development of Hegel’s philosophy of law, detailing the manuscript transcriptions, textual variations, and editorial decisions that shaped this edition. This section is particularly valuable for scholars, offering insights into the complexities of editing and interpreting Hegel’s texts.
Following the editorial report is a comprehensive notes section that clarifies and contextualizes Hegel’s arguments while connecting them to broader themes within his philosophy. These notes are essential to understanding Hegel’s dense prose, correcting common misconceptions, and elucidating the sources and intellectual context of his lectures. A specialized index of biblical references catalogues instances where Hegel cites or alludes to biblical texts, illustrating the intersections between his philosophical ideas and religious thought.
The volume concludes with a “Bibliography” listing all works cited in the editorial report and notes, and an “Index of Persons” that includes all individuals mentioned across the four volumes. Finally, an errata section addresses known errors or corrections for Hegel: Gesammelte Werke, Volume 26, ensuring readers have access to the most accurate information. This supplementary volume provides a thorough, scholarly approach to Hegel’s lectures, supporting readers in navigating his intricate ideas on philosophy, law, and ethics.
Simon Gros 
Leave a comment