This is an economic, social and cultural analysis of the nature of production and consumption activities in households in the counties of Kent and Cornwall. It yields important new insights on the transition to capitalism in England.

Consumption is well established as a key theme in the study of the eighteenth century. Spaces of Consumption brings a new dimension to this subject by looking at it spatially. Taking English towns as its scene, this inspiring new study focuses on moments of consumption - selecting and purchasing goods, attending plays, promenading - and explores the ways in which these were related together through the spaces of the town: the shop, the theatre and the street. Using this fresh form of analysis, it has much to say about sociability, politeness and respectability in the eighteenth century.

Consumption is well established as a key theme in the study of the eighteenth century. Spaces of Consumption brings a new dimension to this subject by looking at it spatially.

Taking English towns as its scene, this inspiring new study focuses on moments of consumption - selecting and purchasing goods, attending plays, promenading - and explores the ways in which these were related together through the spaces of the town: the shop, the theatre and the street.

Using this fresh form of analysis, it has much to say about sociability, politeness and respectability in the eighteenth century.

This is an economic, social and cultural analysis of the nature and variety of production and consumption activities in households in the counties of Kent and Cornwall. It yields important new insights on the transition to capitalism in England.