Originally published in 1961, this study challenges the stereotype of Kierkegaard as being socially aloof and politically conservative. Bukdahl does a through job of contextualizing Kierkegaard in nineteenth-century Denmark, shedding light on his relationships with his family, various religious groups, and the leading intellectual figures of his time. At the same time, Kierkegaards fundamental interest in the plight of "the common man" is revealed both from his writings and his social encounters. In addition to crafting a fine translation, Bruce Kirmmse has expanded the usefulness of Bukdahl's work by including a significant biographical introduction, informative notes identifying events and figures referenced in the text, and a guide pointing readers to English translations of all of Kierkegaard's writings.