formal element of the activity of the absolute Idea。 The realising activity of which we have spoken
is the middle term of the Syllogism； one of whose extremes is the Universal essence； the Idea；
which reposes in the peralia of Spirit； and the other； the plex of external things； objective
matter。 That activity is the medium by which the universal latent principle is translated into the
domain of objectivity。
§ 29
I will endeavour to make what has been said more vivid and clear by examples。
The building of a house is； in the first instance； a subjective aim and design。 On the other hand we
have； as means； the several substances required for the work； — Iron； Wood； Stones。 The
elements are made use of in working up this material： fire to melt the iron； wind to blow the fire；
water to set wheels in motion； in order to cut the wood； &c。 The result is； that the wind； which has
helped to build the house； is shut out by the house； so also are the violence of rains and floods；
and the destructive powers of fire； so far as the house is made fire…proof。 The stones and beams
obey the law of gravity； — press downwards； — and so high walls are carried up。 Thus the
elements are made use of in accordance with their nature； and yet to co…operate for a product； by
which their operation is limited。 Thus the passions of men are gratified； they develop themselves
and their aims in accor