Wittgenstein's Tractatus: An Introduction (Midway Reprints)

This is a fun and light approach to one of the more difficult and obscure philosophical works of the early 20th century. Although the Tractatus has a repuation of being difficult, this book and and Donald Peterson's "Introduction to Wittgenstein's Early Philosophy" have shown that, underneath the surface of Wittgenstein's aphoristic and obtuse language, there is a relatively simple line of thought. If you are only going to purchase one book on the topic, I would reccomend Peterson. However, this one is a little more fun.

Mounce's book is excellent. It earns very high marks for clarity and is highly recommended students. But I think it would be good for anyone interested in Wittgenstein - early or late. Mounce is particulary strong on explaining the logical and mathematical portions of the Tractatus, which can be nearly impossible without some background.

Mounce makes a lot of sense of Wittgenstein's attractive but very difficult to comprehend magnum opus. Mounce studied with one of W's literary executors, so it is likely that his interpretation is close to the "correct" one. Presumes no previous knowledge of philosophy or logic. All in all a fantastic resource.