Lloyd Strickland presents a new translation of the ‘Monadology’, alongside key parts of the ‘Theodicy’, and an in-depth, section-by-section commentary that explains in detail not just what Leibniz is saying in the text but also why he says it. The sharp focus on the various arguments and other justifications Leibniz puts forward makes possible a deeper and more sympathetic understanding of his doctrines. Written in 1714, the ‘Monadology’ is widely considered to be the classic statement of Leibniz’s mature philosophy. In the space of 90 numbered paragraphs, totalling little more than 6000 words, Leibniz outlines — and argues for — the core features of his philosophical system. Although rightly regarded as a masterpiece, it is also a very condensed work that generations of students have struggled to understand.