The Encyclopedia of the Philosophical Sciences represents Hegel's effort to present his entire philosophical system in a comprehensive yet condensed form. Originally published in 1817 during his Heidelberg period and substantially revised in 1827 and 1830, the work was conceived primarily as a textbook for his university lectures. It is divided into three major sections - Logic, Philosophy of Nature, and Philosophy of Spirit - presenting the complete circle of philosophical knowledge as Hegel understood it.

The text opens with the Science of Logic (in abbreviated form), establishing the fundamental categories through which reality must be comprehended. Moving through Being, Essence, and the Concept, it provides a more accessible version of the arguments developed at length in the larger Science of Logic. The Philosophy of Nature then examines how logical structures manifest in the natural world, analyzing mechanics, physics, and organic nature. Finally, the Philosophy of Spirit traces the development of consciousness through subjective spirit (individual psychology), objective spirit (law, morality, and ethical life), and absolute spirit (art, religion, and philosophy).

Unlike Hegel's other major works, the Encyclopedia employs a unique structure of numbered paragraphs followed by "remarks" and "additions" (the latter compiled from student lecture notes). This format allows for both concise systematic presentation and more detailed explanation of difficult points. The text's comprehensive scope reveals how Hegel understood the interconnections between different domains of knowledge - showing how logic, nature, and spirit form an integrated whole rather than separate spheres. While sometimes criticized for its schematic nature, the Encyclopedia provides crucial insights into how Hegel envisioned the unity of his philosophical system.

This modern unabridged translation includes an afterword that situates these writings within Hegel's larger philosophical system, providing essential context on the historical and intellectual milieu that shaped his ideas. Alongside a detailed timeline of Hegel's life and works, the afterword explores how this text connects to his broader contributions to metaphysics, epistemology, and social philosophy. The translation employs modern, reader-friendly language, accompanied by a scholarly apparatus designed to immerse contemporary readers in Hegel's intellectual world while emphasizing his enduring relevance today. The translation and accompanying commentary aim to bridge the gap between Hegel’s intricate theoretical frameworks and the modern reader’s quest for understanding, shedding light on his impact on philosophy (including Marx) and beyond. Hegel, often considered one of the most challenging philosophers due to the vast scope and complexity of his thought, is rendered more approachable in this Afterword through the lens of interpretations by influential thinkers such as Tolstoy, Nietzsche, Schopenhauer, and Heidegger.