This introductory chapter begins with a discussion of Hegel's thought and the renaissance of Hegel studies in English language scholarship. It then analyses Hegel's Phenomenology of Spirit, arguing that it is, in its epistemological aims and methodology, thoroughly shaped by Hegel's response to Kant's philosophical criticism. An overview of the chapters included in this volume is presented. Keywords:Kant,
Hegel,
Phenomenology of Spirit,
philosophical criticism