Tracing debates and controversies of the past is often difficult. One
especially useful source is
TITLE Dictionary of the history of ideas; studies of selected pivotal
ideas. Philip P. Wiener, editor in chief.
PUBLISHER New York, Scribner [1973-74]
Leyburn-Reference CB5 .D52
The articles are drawn from Journal of the History of Ideas, and the
fifth volume is an indispensable index to the other four. It may be
useful to look up the names of prominent individuals (viz: Andrew
Marvell) and then read the articles in which they are referenced.
There are important intellectual history sources which can shed light
on arguments and personalities, but these tend to be specific to
historical periods. Examples include:
/Briggs Victorian People/