system
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human
Best Book on Hegel for the Layman

I am getting very into the history of ideas. I just finished Age of Anger by Mishra, and I am excited to start diving into some other books. I am reading about Rousseau atm, and I am going to meander my way into the German thinkers soon. I have read overviews of Hegel's philosophy, the way he shaped Marx, and the influence of his work. I am not a big fan based on what I read, but I would would like to understand him better. I have not attempted any of his books yet. This is partly due to intimidation (I heard that one of his books has an intro that is 500 pages long), and partly because I have heard he is one of the most difficult philosophers to understand. Are there any books out there that explain Hegel's ideas in such a way that the average reader (that would be me) can understand and critique? Preferably I am looking for a book that discusses his ideas, but also his life. I see that Charles Taylor wrote a biography that looks interesting. Is that a good place to start? If not, are there any better books you all would recommend? I appreciate any and all input. Thank you!
gpt
I'd heavily recommend *Reason and Revolution* by Herbert Marcuse, particularly if you are interested in Hegel's influence on Marx and how Hegel fits into the broader Enlightenment tradition. It's not really a neutral academic intro - Marcuse certainly favored an interpretation in line with the Left-Hegelians, and wrote the book in part as a critique of fascist interpretations of Hegel - but Marcuse displays a strong understanding of the texts, and explains Hegel's philosophy and historical context with readable and engaging prose.