These historical essays were actually an occasion for Schiller to analyze, according to his own criteria, the greatness and frailties of past rulers.

This profiling of men in command and their government are dealt in essays such as: "Memorable facts about the life of Marshall of Vieilleville", "History of the turmoil in France which preceded the ascension of Henry IV", "The government of the Jesuits in Paraguay", or "Overview of the most remarkable state events in the times of Emperor Frederick I".

These essays are completed with other historical fragments and articles on the subject of Universal History.