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End of an Era (Paperback)
John Sergeant Wise; Edited by Paul Dennis Sporer
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R645
Discovery Miles 6 450
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Ships in 10 - 15 working days
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This memoir constitutes one of the best first-person narratives of
the Civil War experience. It is written with power, candour,
objectivity and elegance. The story that John Sergeant Wise
recounts is a colourful, almost novelistic account of a young
Confederate soldier's life and views. END OF AN ERA is a valuable
archive of sociological and anthropological information about a
bygone era. Wise affectionately recounts the cultural and economic
diversity of his social landscape. He describes many of the small
towns, villages, and territories of early Virginia, recalling the
demographic, economic, religious, and political aspects that made
them notable. In the book's detailed prose, the various strands
that made up the fabric of antebellum Southern culture are captured
beautifully. He also describes the privations and horrors of war,
and the failings of Southern leaders, with unflinching honesty. He
does not glorify the Southern army or its government, nor does he
try to justify his occasionally ungentlemanly conduct and speech.
The full range of his emotions is exhibited in this memoir,
reactions he had to the complex changes that occurred within his
own circle, as well as in larger Southern society.
Even with the strongest motivation to make the ideal of love a
reality, men and women have always had the greatest difficultly in
bringing such desire to fulfilment in a world that does not
understand deep feeling, dominated as it is by the tenets of
materialism. Consequently, intimate companionship, as a unique,
mutually reinforcing partnership that develops within a particular
social and economic context, must be carefully considered from
various perspectives. Indeed, even in the happiest marriage, the
couple do not live on an island, but are affected by the events
that unfold around them. The expression of "love" is more than
simply two people occupying the same residence, for they must deal
with mundane issues, such as income and employment, as well as
bills and expenses. Western society has offered guidance in the
form of viable patterns of living, a succession of accomplishments,
that can lead to contentment, but finding these "pathways" in the
modern age can be elusive.In The Dimensions of Companionship, Paul
Dennis Sporer examines the realities of marriage in the
contemporary world, where the individual attempts to reconcile
complex emotional desires with numerous material demands. Through
exacting and innovative use of statistics and records, Sporer
undertakes an unprecedented wide-ranging analysis of how economic
and social factors affect the individual's interpretation of
intimate relationships, by studying the interactions between living
arrangements, education, mass communication, and the desire for
privacy. Using these methods, this work attempts to address the
issue of whether the modern preoccupations with self-sufficiency
and social advancement are compatible with married life. Sporer
investigates the problems that can arise when the various forces of
society interfere with the individual's endeavor to plan his life
in a way that takes into account the strengths and limitations of
his own personality. Many men and women claim that they have
"freely" selected their life path, especially in the domain of
relationships. This independent attitude has resulted in an
alteration in the timeline of meaningful events, and the attainment
of important roles, such as graduate, career person, spouse, and
parent, now occurs in a different sequence than in the past,
leading to difficulties in obtaining both occupation and
relationship satisfaction. The common view is that modern people
are strong enough to tolerate emotional denial, but evidence
indicates that the opposite is true, and people will take whatever
steps necessary to obtain the happiness that they lack. Research
shows that a seemingly "irrational" desire to inaugurate an
intimate relationship is often the result of background issues,
such as a lack of privacy, a large family, or the loss of a parent,
particularly a father who acted as a mentor; the relationship is
sought that will provide the emotional and mental support that was
lacking at home. Various factors, therefore, can lead to delaying
or denying the experience of beneficial companionship. The men and
women of our time undoubtedly utilize much of their intellectual
and emotional energy for the purpose of increasing their income and
career status. Sporer concludes that, despite this materialistic
emphasis, the ultimate goal for all individuals is to develop and
maintain a companionate relationship that delivers respect and
consideration, in congruence with the requirements of a modern
industrial social environment. However, the influences that can
bring about failure in marriage are more powerful than ever, and
ironically, this is happening in a period when marriage is the only
truly stable intimate relationship. The Dimensions of Companionship
puts forward the idea that any intelligent and resourceful man or
woman can bring their ideal of love into reality, by understanding
the way in which the material demands of life integrate with
individual motivations.
Throughout history, men and women during courtship have paid close
attention to each other's beliefs and opinions. The reason for this
is clear: the relationship could not possibly endure if there were
serious disagreements about the "right" or "wrong" way to do
things. Reaching the ideal form of companionship necessitates
establishing a foundation of interlocking attributes upon which to
build a marriage. Yet certain issues remain, such as how much
should one press for similarity in viewpoint, how differences in
outlook should be handled, and what level of difference should be
considered too extreme. Equal but Different, by Paul Dennis Sporer,
is an exceptional book that provides an original perspective on how
we might comprehend a person's true nature through the
interpretation of traits. Using analyses of historical events,
census statistics, opinion polls, surveys, and studies, Sporer
examines the devices that people use to cognize, match, and adjust
patterns of opinions and attitudes. He finds that similarities
between men and women in preferences and habits can smooth the path
through courtship and into married life. However, it is essential
to understand that differences can serve a vital function as well;
"difference" is not fundamentally equivalent to "disagreement" or
"dispute." Although perceptions of "difference" are to an extent
derived from familial and cultural factors, prejudices can stand in
the way of seeing how variations in personality can actually
strengthen a relationship. The book investigates changes in
interpretative concepts about personality attributes, where the
traditional ideal of love has not been rejected, but instead has
been "put on hold." A new, defective ideal has taken its place, one
that incorporates self-centered motivations. Sporer finds that in
the present generation, many men and women strongly prefer that the
range of traits be "compressed" into simplistic conformity. He
identifies the reasons why spouses are expected to be more similar
to each other in personality. Indeed, a remarkable overlapping in
temperament, background, and opinions in the "ideal" marriage
partner is now required because fewer compromises have to be made;
the perception is that less sacrifice means more independent
behavior and thus higher social status. Innovative social methods
are utilized to create a congruent and homogeneous set of traits,
with higher level education being the most powerful and durable of
these. Sporer also focuses on the difficulties that result from the
"homogenizing" of relationships, such as increased competition
between older and younger men for a younger woman's attentions. The
book also explores the historic roots of these contemporary
manifestations. In the early modern age, the fears engendered by
interpersonal differences first led to various attempts to delay
marriage, as well as an increase in unusual arrangements, such as
marriage of first cousins. In fact, the changes in gender roles in
the Nineteenth century can be largely attributed to efforts in
homogenizing personality traits. Further effects included the
modification of a range of beliefs about domestic life, such as
reducing the size of the "ideal" number of children that a woman
should have. We can see that the understanding of the most
distinctive, intimate, and individualistic aspects of a person
should be of critical importance in developing a long-lasting,
viable relationship. Equal but Different gives us an enlightened
new perspective on the inner meaning and value of personality
traits, and how such attributes affect relations between the sexes.
Although similarities in viewpoint and background can be strongly
attractive from the beginning of a relationship, dissimilarities
can open up rewarding new vistas that benefit both the man and
woman.
Over the course of many generations, the concept of family has
served a vital function in every community. It has always had the
power to transform a household, from a mere collection of persons,
into a healthy, solid base from which individuality can naturally
spring forth. Family stands as a vanguard in civilized society, and
in fact, it is the only place where consideration, respect, and
mutual reliance can effectively interact to create a nurturing
environment. The loss of support within the childhood home can lead
to potentially devastating consequences later in life, due to
poorly conceived attitudes about relationships. The Concept of
Family, by Paul Dennis Sporer, is a valuable contribution to the
field of family studies. Through a comprehensive investigation,
this work reveals many of the most overlooked issues concerning
family life. In his research, Sporer has discovered, that contrary
to popular opinion, people living before the modern age were
morally stronger and more individualistic than in our time, and men
and women were able to co-exist harmoniously with each other in
happier relationships. European societies have for centuries
endeavored to give everyone the platform upon which to build a
distinctive, fulfilling life, by developing the individual's mental
faculties through the positive interactions found in the family
home. Such inner strength meant that our ancestors could achieve
success in business and community while maintaining their
individuality, oftentimes with relatively few resources. The book
elucidates the reasons for this traditional superior standard of
individual accomplishment. Older European cultures believed it was
important to teach children about mutualism and reciprocity from a
young age, by elaborating on those aspects that strengthen and
solidify a relationship. Family structure factors were significant,
since positive mental qualities could only be gained in households
where one-to-one relations provided meaningful information, advice,
and training. In these families, children developed evaluative
mechanisms early in life, allowing them to correctly ascertain
appropriate behavior. Further, parents encouraged their children to
form their own rules and values, as preparation for the day when
they would take their position in a complex and changing society.
Perhaps most importantly, parents wanted their children to look at
all facets of a situation, not only parts of it. Social principles
are ineffective when applied piecemeal, and so children were
motivated to prioritize and bring together these ideas into an
integrated whole by using mature, advanced methods. Yet, despite
the importance of creating healthy individualism, in modern society
the concept of family is poorly integrated, because many men and
women find themselves drawing their experiences about "family" from
unrewarding and disjointed situations. Thus, in considering the
pitfalls inherent in contemporary cultures, it is apparent that
social factors exist that can overpower the process of
individuation. Sporer concludes that, even in an environment where
there are many failed relationships resulting from immaturity and
selfishness, there are still effective ways to find a marriage
partner without compromising moral principles or personal goals. To
this end, the dynamics of companionship must be adequately
assimilated in childhood, so that, as adults, men and women can
apply this wisdom to the family that they will establish. It is
indeed difficult to bring into reality the ideal relationship that
one holds in the mind, but The Concept of Family facilitates the
realization of this elusive image of fulfillment by revealing what
lies behind the great intrinsic need for genuine respect and
considerate behavior.
There is only one place in a civilized society where men and women
can see the various ideals about life effectively balanced, and
that is in the intimate relationship of marriage. The path to
matrimony starts with friendship, but an essential mutual
commitment must then occur that deepens the relationship, and takes
it from the merely mundane into the transcendent. The love that
begins in courtship will find completeness in a partnership that is
characterized by devotion, truthfulness, and empathy. Therefore, by
marrying, men and women make the deliberate choice to forego some
aspects of their former life with the hope of achieving greater
happiness by sharing everything with another person. Yet, the
decisions that have to be made on this path are sometimes
difficult, and the individual may be unable to find advantageous
direction and guidance. Liberating Love, by Paul Dennis Sporer, is
a unique book that examines the inspired process of building
relationships from an historical standpoint, with step-by-step
coverage of an ideal marriage, from initial friendship, to weighing
social, economic, and emotional variables, to securing lasting
mutual enhancement. Thus, the stages of relationship construction
are explored, with detailed discussions about the substantive
facets of each stage. From these studies it becomes apparent that
contented, fulfilling relationships were not only common in the age
before the modern era, but expected. In order to understand how
effectively our ancestors carefully and conscientiously built their
marital relationships, information is drawn from numerous events
and lives across history and cultures, demonstrating instances of
expert handling of difficult issues in a variety of environments.
The personal thoughts people had in relation to intimacy are
reconstructed, not only revealing their goals, fears, strengths,
and supports, but clarifying the methods they used to deal with
loneliness, work, travel, and social pressures. From examining the
experiences of others, everyone will find something useful to
integrate into their own life. For example, Sporer reflects on the
marriages of famous persons such as W. A. Mozart, John Donne,
Heinrich Schutz, and St. Elizabeth of Hungary; he analyzes the
intriguing array of relationship practices found in a range of
countries, such as Britain, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Spain,
and Switzerland; he also reviews the guidance offered on marriage
by Roman Catholic and Protestant theologies. These analyses
indicate that past generations found success in marriage, because
they were more disciplined, broad-minded, and solicitous compared
to the people of today. Whatever the individual aspects of a
marriage situation, a foundation was established upon which a
strong relationship could be built. Men and women often proceeded
along a course guided by objective thinking, with a flexible and
innovative use of resources. Emotional closeness could readily be
obtained through the network of family relations, which was
traditionally governed by customs arising from a locally modified
form of the universal European "spirit." In this environment, total
freedom of association was guaranteed, and people could choose
their spouse without interference. It is clear that married couples
were also more contented about their place in society, because
their status was increased through the empowerment of a cooperative
partnership. Indeed, both spouses became stronger than before their
marriage. Only within this framework can the ideal of love truly be
liberated. Individuals today can learn much from the wisdom that
aided the formation of the relationships of our ancestors.
Liberating Love is an invaluable source of ideas that can help
modern men and women comprehend critical aspects of intimate
relationships, for their own benefit and that of others.
In lively and witty prose, Albert Rhodes describes in The French at
Home the allures and foibles of the Gallic race. Early in American
history, before certain prejudices had set in, this diplomat living
in France shows the varied facets of French life, in an age when
traditional ideas still predominated. Using many charming examples,
Rhodes addresses such subjects as chivalry, speech, epigrams,
dress, food - all the things that make the French so distinctive.
Rhodes had many opportunities to observe European life during a
lengthy foreign residence in the consular and diplomatic service;
and the results of his observations are presented here in a form
that could be considered both brilliant and instructive. Rhodes not
only conveys the ordinary activities he observed as a resident in
France, but he also attempts to look deeply into the French
character, into a nation's "personality," to perceive what makes
them better or worse than Americans. The French at Home is a long
neglected book that brings to life the manners and customs of the
French at a time when the codes of gallantry were still in force,
and art and culture were held in high esteem. Americans have always
made rather interesting appraisals of the French. On the one hand,
the citizens of the New World have criticized their European
counterparts for their social instability, their love of monarchy,
their preoccupation with finery, their lack of interest in
industrialism; yet at the same time, they have admired their
elegance, traditions, art, music and great international influence.
Rhodes was well aware of his young nation's uncertain, and at times
unreasonable, assessments of this old European country, and his
theories aboutthe origins of these views make for fascinating
reading. The French at Home is a uniquely rewarding work for both
Americans and Frenchmen who desire to understand the cultural
factors that shape current international public opinions. Albert
Rhodes was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania in 1840. He held many
important government positions, representing America abroad. During
the administration of President Johnson, he was United States
consul at Jerusalem, and under President Grant, he was consul at
Rotterdam and charge d'affaires at the Hague. He was also consul at
Rouen, France, and at Elberfeld, Germany, from 1877 to 1885. Rhodes
frequently contributed to American, French, and British
periodicals, largely on the characteristics of life and people on
the European continent. Among his books are Jerusalem as it Is
(London, 1867); and Monsieur at Home (London, 1886). Paul Dennis
Sporer has edited other important works that describe and examine
uniquely American social and psychological issues, such as An
Incident of Travel, by Arthur Jerome Eddy, End of an Era, by John
Sergeant Wise, and Newer Ideals of Peace by Jane Addams.
A masterpiece of psychological evaluation of culture, religion,
patriotism and rebellion, The Heart of ryvarta is a penetrating
investigation of a complex society at a critical time in its
history. At the beginning of the 20th century, India's evolving
nationalist movement, led by educated and cultured men such as
Gandhi, was gaining strength. The British, whose colonial agencies
had dominated Indian life for generations, were unable to fathom
this desire for independence. Lawrence Dundas (1876-1961), a
statesman and administrator, unlike most of his countrymen, did not
contemptuously dismiss this movement, but committed himself to
fully understanding the underlying economic and political factors
that drove forward its systematic rejection of British rule.
However, Dundas takes the discussion much further than politics.
Using first-hand observation, as well as in-depth research, he
articulates the positive goals of the Indian nationalists, which
were founded on the idea of a return to a golden age of peace,
wisdom, and fulfilment that existed before the arrival of the
colonialists. He also sagaciously analyses the complex social and
intellectual mechanisms that regulated, stifled or encouraged the
attacks on the institutions of British colonial authority. These
mechanisms were often outwardly expressed as religious concepts,
some quite startling in their ingenuity. In fact, Dundas believed
it was essential to understand these remarkable "myths," and he
explains them at length, in a manner that a Westerner can easily
comprehend. The author, an aide-de-camp and biographer of the
famous Lord Curzon, was extremely unusual, in being a high-ranking
political official in India with a scholarlyinterest in sociology,
psychology, metaphysics and history. His studies resulted in a very
original analysis of current affairs, social class, educational
goals, morality and ethics. One might argue that in certain ways he
resembled, and even surpassed, Carl Jung in his interpretation of
Indian symbolism and cosmology. The Heart of ryvarta is an
ambitious work that is almost unique in its impressive ability to
reconcile the mystical with the political. Despite his position and
background, Dundas demonstrates that he has a profound knowledge of
the deep-seated human need for social and cultural development free
from external interference. He sympathises with the difficulties of
the Indian people, and sincerely attempts to see their desire for
autonomy from their perspective. Paul Dennis Sporer has edited
other important works that analyze the intersection of social,
cultural and political factors, such as Is Secession Treason?, by
Albert Bledsoe, Newer Ideals of Peace, by Jane Addams, and The
French at Home, by Albert Rhodes.
Although Harriet Beecher Stowe's Uncle Tom's Cabin is considered to
be the book that most motivated a nation against slavery, it was
not a work of fiction, but rather a sociological treatise that
perhaps should take that honor. Hinton Rowan Helper, a
slaveholder's son, wrote a well-researched and persuasive
indictment of slavery, which not only became widely known but also
had a major impact on American politics. In fact, it was
instrumental in helping Abraham Lincoln win the Presidential
election of 1860. However, this work, The Crisis of the American
South, is complex, and it would be a mistake to look at it solely
as anti-slavery propaganda. Helper, as other authors, argued that
the basic injustices within the institution of slavery were a
heinous offence against Christian principles. Yet, he went much
further than others to document the harm that was actually being
done to society by this institution. For example, Helper claimed
that slavery was keeping the South backwards agriculturally and
industrially, that it was destroying land prices, and hindering
railroad building. In addition, he brought much needed attention to
key cultural aspects that were usually ignored, such as the
dependence of Southerners on the products of Northern industry, a
lack of patriotism amongst the Southern elite, and the inability of
the illiterate poor whites of the South to express their desires
and aims. It is clear from his writing, that although Helper was
sympathetic to the plight of blacks, he empathized most with the
downtrodden whites of the South. Ultimately, Helper's larger goal
was to provoke a type of socialist revolution, and the emancipation
of slaves was only one aspect of this. Hinotn Rowan Helper
(1829-1909) was born and raised in North Carolina, his father dying
only a year after his birth. His family owned a few slaves, working
them on a small farm. After a wasted three years in California
during the "gold rush," he apparently contemplated a work that
would address the economic problems in his own part of the country,
the South. After much difficulty in publishing this book, Helper
eventually achieved great success and popularity. He went on to
live in South America, being appointed by President Lincoln as U.S.
consul to Buenos Aires. Although respected as a scholar for his
landmark anti-slavery work, his later writings became strident and
polemical. Through various publications, he warned Americans about
the threat that blacks and other non-white races posed for American
society. His erstwhile supporters came to regard his post-war views
with distaste, and they could not allow themselves to be associated
with his program of nativism. Paul Dennis Sporer has edited many
other works that contribute to the understanding of American
society, such as End of an Era, by John Sergeant Wise, Is Secession
Treason? by Albert Bledsoe, Newer Ideals of Peace, by Jane Addams,
and Half a Century, by Jane Swisshelm.
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The New Birth (Paperback)
Austin Phelps; Edited by Paul Dennis Sporer
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R428
Discovery Miles 4 280
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Ships in 10 - 15 working days
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This highly rewarding work goes back to a time when theological
discussion was not considered "heavy." It contains an inspirational
treatment of the subject of conversion, and sees faith as creating
fresh possibilities that can lead to great accomplishments. In
modest, inspiring, but still powerful language, it puts forward
many important ideas using a sensible, logical plan that helps the
individual interact with God in his new-found spiritual life. As
the title suggests, The New Birth views the concept of conversion
as a momentous, singular event. Austin Phelps discusses the subject
in relation to the subjects of guilt, self-respect, ritual, laws,
mysticism, regeneration, the power of truth, the role of the
preacher, and personal responsibility. Phelps strikes just the
right balance of advice, admonition, dogma and social commentary.
His writing is almost poetic, yet it is also steady, careful,
straightforward and compelling. Although Phelps saw great value in
the spreading of ideas through preaching, he perceived this form of
address as more than a lecture; indeed, it was a kind of
conversation, where people could stop to think, ask questions, and
proceed to learn further. The author understood that the
profundities of Christianity could not be laid out in a simple
sermon; they need to be ex-pounded upon with a great diligence and
earnestness, in direct language that does not trivialize, but still
maintains the purity of the fundamental concept. Austin Phelps'
books are, generally speaking, devotional, homiletical, and
theological in character. The Still Hour was published in 1860 in
both America and Britain, and was extremely popular, selling some
200,000 copies. He also published anumber of books about the
difficult and varied tasks of a minister: The Theory of Preaching;
Lectures on Homiletics (1881); Men and Books; or Studies in
Homiletics (1882); My Study and Other Essays (1886) Rhetoric; Its
Theory and Practice (1895). Paul Dennis Sporer has edited other
significant books that deal with the complex dynamics of personal
growth and transformation, such as The Missionary, by Samuel
Mazzuchelli, Half a Century, by Jane Swisshelm, and Born Three
Times by Thomas L. Johnson.
General Robert E. Lee uttered to Albert Bledsoe these important
words: "You have a great work to do; we all look to you for our
vindication." The "work" Lee was referring to was in essence a
Confederate political bible, that would clarify and explain the
principles of self-determination upon which the Secession from the
United States of America was based. Bledsoe was truly inspired to
write a most deftly argued book defending the South's "unthinkable"
action. This treatise, originally called Is Davis a Traitor?, is
finally returned to print in a new edition, with a new preface and
index. Albert Taylor Bledsoe (1809-1877) could be characterized as
a traditionalist, an "unreconstructed Southerner," a fighter for
various causes and a firm believer in the dangers of modernism and
foreign influence. Yet he was no stooge working for the Southern
"Brahmins"- he was an intelligent man of letters, soldier and
educator, clergyman and lawyer, friend of wealthy men, social
investigator, and seasoned traveler. Because of his intellectual
perspicacity, and his connections to important leaders in the
South, he became an apologist for the Southern Confederacy, and the
pre-war Southern "mentality." Is Secession Treason? represents the
pinnacle of Bledsoe's work. The centerpiece of his position is the
critical distinction between the words "constitution" and
"compact." Drawing from the texts of numerous political and
philosophical documents, he presents ample justification for the
assertion that the union of former colonies in the 1780s was
voluntary and not perpetual, and their inherent independence was
not taken away by their acceding to the "compact" that joined them.
Limitation on the power of thecentral authority over the states was
actually a key factor in the minds of the participants attending
the Constitutional Convention, as the author so ably proves. In the
pursuit of honesty and openness, Bledsoe strives to present both
sides of the debate, and states with great clarity and force the
positions of Webster, Madison, Jefferson, Hamilton, Calhoun and
many others. After careful reflection and analysis, he arrives at
two powerful conclusions: Secession was allowed under the
Constitution, and the military attack by the Federal government on
the Confederacy was illegal. So well-reasoned were his arguments,
that his book proved to be a source of material for the defense of
Jefferson Davis, President of the Southern Confederacy, from
charges of treason. Despite Albert Bledsoe's unwavering devotion to
his beloved homeland, one could say that his treatise is more of a
fair and balanced treatment of Secession, than many recently
published works covering the same subject. Paul Dennis Sporer has
edited other books that contribute to the understanding of the
complex social and political dynamics of the American Civil War
period, such as End of an Era, by John Sergeant Wise, Half a
Century, by Jane Swisshelm, and Tupelo by James Hill Aughey.
A common lament among artists is that there are no books available
that give specific, practical information about the procedures used
by those creative geniuses collectively known as the Old Masters.
The reason for this dearth is that such a work's author would have
to possess extraordinarily wide-ranging expert knowledge and
skills. Thomas Gullick's credentials indicate a great capability in
taking up this challenge. He was a professional artist and scholar
living in the mid-19th century, and so was in an exemplary position
to discuss the intricacies of traditional techniques, and to
compare modern systems to the styles and methods of previous eras.
The book's exceptionally insightful combination of art history,
aesthetic theory and erudite analysis made it highly regarded at
the time, and it was given as a prize for outstanding achievement
at the Royal College of Art in London. In this important new
edition, with a newly compiled comprehensive index, Gullick
authoritatively covers the aims and objectives the artist should
have when interpreting reality, with stress laid on accuracy of
detail, depth and transparency. Apropos of these principles, he
skilfully discusses the surprisingly complex theories of art that
existed in ancient times, including that of the Egyptians,
Assyrians, Greeks, Etruscans, and Romans. Also, the spiritual
features of Christian Medieval art are explored, as are the
distinctive traits of the national schools of Italy, Germany, the
Low Countries, and England. Of particular value to the working
artist are the detailed sections dealing with technical issues of
pre-modern forms of painting, many of which are poorly understood
today, but that could, if used, greatly facilitate and expand the
range of visual expression. The reader will learn about various
physical processes such as encaustic, mosaic, tempera, fresco, oil
and miniature painting. There is also a wealth of knowledge
pertaining to implements, vehicles, varnishes, grounds, colours,
subjectiles (i.e. supports), chemical formulations, the arrangement
of the work-room and studio, and much more. Despite the
sophisticated nature of the material, the author does not neglect
the human dimension, for he cites pertinent facts, as well as witty
anecdotes, from the life stories of many well-known and not so
well-known artists.
A common lament among artists is that there are no books available
that give specific, practical information about the procedures used
by those creative geniuses collectively known as the Old Masters.
The reason for this dearth is that such a work's author would have
to possess extraordinarily wide-ranging expert knowledge and
skills. Thomas Gullick's credentials indicate a great capability in
taking up this challenge. He was a professional artist and scholar
living in the mid-19th century, and so was in an exemplary position
to discuss the intricacies of traditional techniques, and to
compare modern systems to the styles and methods of previous eras.
The book's exceptionally insightful combination of art history,
aesthetic theory and erudite analysis made it highly regarded at
the time, and it was given as a prize for outstanding achievement
at the Royal College of Art in London. In this important new
edition, with a newly compiled comprehensive index, Gullick
authoritatively covers the aims and objectives the artist should
have when interpreting reality, with stress laid on accuracy of
detail, depth and transparency. Apropos of these principles, he
skilfully discusses the surprisingly complex theories of art that
existed in ancient times, including that of the Egyptians,
Assyrians, Greeks, Etruscans, and Romans. Also, the spiritual
features of Christian Medieval art are explored, as are the
distinctive traits of the national schools of Italy, Germany, the
Low Countries, and England. Of particular value to the working
artist are the detailed sections dealing with technical issues of
pre-modern forms of painting, many of which are poorly understood
today, but that could, if used, greatly facilitate and expand the
range of visual expression. The reader will learn about various
physical processes such as encaustic, mosaic, tempera, fresco, oil
and miniature painting. There is also a wealth of knowledge
pertaining to implements, vehicles, varnishes, grounds, colours,
subjectiles (i.e. supports), chemical formulations, the arrangement
of the work-room and studio, and much more. Despite the
sophisticated nature of the material, the author does not neglect
the human dimension, for he cites pertinent facts, as well as witty
anecdotes, from the life stories of many well-known and not so
well-known artists.
In the 15th century, a fabulous journey awaited those who could
unlock the secrets of the Earth's geography. Beautifully written
and emotionally compelling, 1492: Admiral of the Ocean-Sea tells of
the famous adventures of Columbus and his men, who sailed into the
almost mythical seas beyond the horizon in search of the "New
World," in the hopes of attaining vast wealth and power. This
brilliant book, by best-selling author Mary Johnston, traces the
long route taken by explorers hoping to locate Asia. Based on their
limited means and understanding of navigation, they struggle to
find their position, while at the same time encountering many
natural wonders and exotic peoples. Tensions build as they appear
to become increasingly lost. Columbus and his crew begin to lose
hope, until they finally receive the vindication of their bold
vision. 1492: Admiral of the Ocean-Sea pays special attention to
the conditions of the late 15th century period. It describes the
competition between classes and ethnic groups in Spain, as well as
the clashes that occurred when people from two very different
cultures, native American and European, interact. These issues are
not merely abstract, since we see them vividly through the eyes of
a disenfranchised individual: a Christian sailor of Jewish
background, who has been compelled to lead a secretive and solitary
existence. The incidents of his life are brought to us in a
handsome, elegant language, uncommon in the books of our day.
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Agatha Webb (Hardcover)
Anna Katharine Green; Edited by Paul Dennis Sporer
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R792
Discovery Miles 7 920
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Ships in 10 - 15 working days
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In this elegant drama, Anna Katharine Green, one of the greatest
mystery writers of all time, weaves a narrative with her usual
consummate skill, and portrays her characters with exceptional
sympathy. On the New England seacoast, not far from Boston, lies a
staid, picturesque village called Sutherlandtown. In these tranquil
surroundings, Agatha Webb and her servant are found murdered. The
task of unraveling the mystery begins at once, and suspicion points
to a number of persons. Agatha herself had a tragic and troubled
past. She suffered the loss of six of her children who died in
infancy; some of the people of the village suspected her of
complicity in these deaths, while others looked upon her as a
victim. Adding to the complexity of the situation, a wealthy local
man is being blackmailed by someone who believes that he is guilty
of Agatha's murder. The solution of the puzzle is uncovered in an
intensely dramatic court scene. In addition to the attraction of
the mystery, there is a great love story. One of the detectives in
the case, Caleb Sweetwater, was first introduced in a minor role in
A Strange Disappearance (1880). Here, the details of his
interesting life story are revealed, considerably fleshing out and
developing his character. We learn that he was raised in
Sutherland-town, maturing into a talented violinist, but
constrained to supporting his mother with limited means. He
relinquishes his musical career in order to become a detective. In
this role he stands out as a trustworthy and conscientious young
man, who volunteers his services to a patron in return for past
consideration. Sweetwater becomes the hero by ultimately solving
the crime in Agatha Webb. He appears again inseveral other Green
novels as Gryce's assistant in the New York Police Department.
To find the fountain of youth - what would that entail, to live
forever, to pass through many generations, without dying? Would it
be a blessing or a curse? We are taken on an amazing journey, as
the man originally known as Kroudhr, Vizier to the King Alexander,
tells his rather bewildered American guest a bizarre story. When he
was a high ranking official of the King's court centuries ago,
Kroudhr secretly discovered the magical elixir that bestows
immortality. He went on to experience many marvelous adventures
over the succeeding generations. He also explains the various
methods he used to conceal his unchanging physical condition.
Unlike other personages in fantasy literature who have claimed
immortality, Kroudhr did not go through a series of guises as the
great composers, writers, government officials, and scientists of
history. Instead, he assumed far more humble personas. However,
from time to time he met, and even helped, geniuses and leaders
with their work. This is an intelligent account of the practical
issues of life without end on Earth: the advantages, the odd
coincidences, the distorted view of human society. The Vizier of
the Two-Horned Alexander focuses on the constantly unfolding
situations, overlapping and shifting, that confront the man who
cannot die. The author gives us a mature, cultured perspective on
this most unusual character. This is a new edition of a long
neglected masterpiece, which was first published in 1897. It
contains a delightful array of fantasy elements, and is one of the
best of its genre.
The small town of Shelby is shaken by a brutal murder. In its
remote outskirts, in a place called Dark Hollow, a man by the name
of Etheridge was found beaten to death. John Scoville, a local
inn-keeper, is convicted and executed for the crime. Many years
later, "a woman in purple" shows up at the house of Ostrander, the
respected judge who had sentenced Scoville to be executed. This
mysterious woman turns out to be the wife of the convicted man, but
she does not believe he was guilty. Deborah Scoville had to move
away with her daughter and change her name to avoid the stigma of
being the wife of a murderer. She visits the Judge, who is now a
recluse, to challenge him on his verdict. He listens to her plea,
but reaffirms his belief in Scoville's guilt. Having nowhere to go,
Deborah is given the position of maid, which she secretly will use
to obtain proof of her husband's innocence and the identity of the
real killer. However, the initial evidence that Deborah collects
points in troubling new directions. It forces disclosures about the
Judge's errant and estranged son. More evidence emerges: peculiar
marks on a walking stick, a knife, a tragic fire, mistaken
identities, heated arguments between friends. All of this produces
astonishing tension, culminating in bitter accusations and an
exciting chase in upstate New York. Finally, all the circumstances
of the crime are revealed. Judge Ostrander carries painful secrets
from long ago, involving his son and his best friend, secrets that
he hoped would never come to light. Dark Hollow is a compelling
tale of hidden guilt, honor, and remorse.
This is a book by pastor William Bacon that attempts to cover a
wide range of issues that parents must confront in helping their
children become responsible Christians. It takes the controversial
position that corporeal punishment, although it should be avoided,
must be used when children do not readily accept other forms of
inducement to obey parental authority. Not everyone will agree with
its premises, but it provides critical information on the
justification for physical discipline. William Bacon believed in
the concept of a household "absolute government"; the child must
understand that ultimate law and justice rest with the parents, and
refusal of requests by children cannot be tolerated. Bacon also
believed in what we today would call behaviorism: that the human
child, like other creatures, can only attain a productive life
through guidance that is clear, steadfast, and goal-orientated. The
natural tendency in man is to disobey, and if his tendencies are
not checked, he will fall into moral ruin. Consequently, Bacon does
not hesitate in condemning parents who are too lazy or too weak to
adequately discipline their children. Discipline to him meant
whatever it took to make children conform to their parents'
requests. Although harsh treatment is distasteful, Bacon believes
not only will this form of correction benefit society, but will
also, according to his analysis of Biblical scripture, immeasurably
help the child's soul.
In the stifling jungles of a small South American country, Robert
Clay works as a civil engineer at a mine. With two American
assistants, he attempts to reap all the rewards found in this
challenging environment. But he also has a secret history as a
mercenary, fighting for whichever side will pay him the most. Clay
finds himself in love with Alice Langham, the daughter of the
wealthy American owner of the mine. His competition for Alice is
Reggie King, who is also from an illustrious and powerful family.
Together, these characters find themselves at the center of an
explosive political situation, where a violent revolution is about
to begin. All are caught up in the uprising, and must take whatever
measures necessary to survive. But Clay and his companions see a
way to make money and gain power in this most dangerous of
enterprises. Soldiers of Fortune is a kind of novel that is not
written anymore: men achieving recognition and honor by engaging in
daring exploits in the midst of arms and warfare. The key to
survival is personal commitment, and politics and patriotism are a
thing of the past. Using an almost journalistic kind of writing,
Davis is able to bring great realism to the story.
The story of men who become rich is not uncommon. But it is rare to
find the story of a man who rose from the very lowest rank in
society, a member of a despised caste known as the chattel slave,
to a position among the greatest, as a renowned missionary and
lecturer. BORN THREE TIMES is a truly inspiring narrative of human
potential and capacity. Thomas Johnson depicts his life under
slavery and his life as a free man. The great change in condition,
from prisoner to world traveller, from an insignificant "nobody" to
celebrated evangelist and speaker - all this seems to be fiction,
but it is absolutely true. He describes his slow steps in
education. Tasks which other people conquer in childhood, such as
learning the alphabet, he must deal with as an adult. Scenes of
life which are taken for granted by the free-born, are challenging
and unnerving to those who had lived in bondage. Further, Johnson
reveals the many complex feelings he had about people and places.
In something that is rare in books of this kind, he even discloses
the secret opinions he and other slaves held of different cultures.
England was considered by them to be the greatest nation in the
world, because Queen Victoria had done so much to liberate the
oppressed. Although he acknowledged that as a black man his racial
homeland was in Africa, he appears to have felt surprisingly
limited resonance with the culture he encountered during his
missionary work there. Johnson made what was at the time a very
audacious decision, to move his family overseas to Europe. He felt
his real place was in England, a land with which he had absolutely
no racial, ethnic or cultural affiliations. He makes clear his
reason: the widespreadprejudice in America, North and South, that
existed against former slaves made his life intolerable. However,
he noted that this prejudice was not as evident against those
blacks visiting from other nations-an interesting comment on the
peculiar nature of racism. Johnson believed that there would be
less racism amongst people who had never tolerated slavery in their
own country. One indeed detects in his writing a genuine warmth
towards the people of his new home, an intangible feeling he cannot
explain.
How do the experiences of today's tourist compare with those of
more than a century ago? Views of Old Europe demonstrates that
there are interesting differences, and some surprising
similarities, between the present day traveler and his early modern
counterpart. It is a highly engaging and well-composed account of a
two-year long journey in the 1840s, mostly on foot, through
Britain, Ireland, Germany, Italy, France, Austria and Switzerland.
The work was so popular, that the original edition was followed by
many further printings in less than two years. This new edition,
with a new preface and index, is based on a revised 1850 version.
Although the book's talented young author, Bayard Taylor, went on
to become a diplomat, essayist, and poet, his first employment afer
leaving the family farm was as a printer's apprentice. The
idealistic youth's cherished goal was to visit various European
countries, to see first-hand the circumstances in which great
culture and art arose. When Taylor's cousin asked him to be his
companion on an extended journey through the Old World, Taylor,
although without much money, found the opportunity too tempting to
pass up. This memoir is multi-faceted. A multitude of perceptive
observations about European society are set against the background
of the journey narrative, which keeps moving at a deliberate but
very pleasant pace. In these observations, Taylor strikes just the
right balance between panorama and detail. The communities of that
time, in all their charm, ebullience, traditional customs, and
protectiveness, are brought into clear focus, facilitated by the
copious notes kept by the author. Over the long course, a variety
of beauties both natural and man-made were encountered: mountains,
rivers, lakes and woods, as well as galleries, museums, churches,
mansions, and cathedrals. But the tour had its share of challenges,
including fatiguing hikes on back-roads, inadequate funds, and
avoiding robbers. There was also a dearth of facilities conducive
to material comfort and convenience, such as hotels, restaurants
and shelters. Still, for Taylor, the advantages greatly outweighed
the hardships, and fond reminiscences are evinced in his lovely
prose.
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The New Birth (Hardcover)
Austin Phelps; Edited by Paul Dennis Sporer
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R718
Discovery Miles 7 180
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Ships in 10 - 15 working days
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This highly rewarding work goes back to a time when theological
discussion was not considered "heavy." It contains an inspirational
treatment of the subject of conversion, and sees faith as creating
fresh possibilities that can lead to great accomplishments. In
modest, inspiring, but still powerful language, it puts forward
many important ideas using a sensible, logical plan that helps the
individual interact with God in his new-found spiritual life. As
the title suggests, The New Birth views the concept of conversion
as a momentous, singular event. Austin Phelps discusses the subject
in relation to the subjects of guilt, self-respect, ritual, laws,
mysticism, regeneration, the power of truth, the role of the
preacher, and personal responsibility. Phelps strikes just the
right balance of advice, admonition, dogma and social commentary.
His writing is almost poetic, yet it is also steady, careful,
straightforward and compelling. Although Phelps saw great value in
the spreading of ideas through preaching, he perceived this form of
address as more than a lecture; indeed, it was a kind of
conversation, where people could stop to think, ask questions, and
proceed to learn further. The author understood that the
profundities of Christianity could not be laid out in a simple
sermon; they need to be expounded upon with a great diligence and
earnestness, in direct language that does not trivialize, but still
maintains the purity of the fundamental concept.
Jane Addams was an important reformer whose work for peace, social
justice and prosperity won her the Nobel Prize. She is most
well-known for establishing in 1889 a reform residence called Hull
House, located on the West Side of Chicago. She also supported the
movement for women's suffrage and was instrumental in the founding
of several key peace organizations. Her activism has become
legendary, but she also wrote eleven books. Newer Ideals of Peace
is perhaps her most important written work, now finally back in
print in a new edition. Although originally published in 1907, it
still is astonishingly relevant to our own time. In this book,
Addams presents in a compelling and concise format, the problems
that America faces in the interaction between industrialism,
militarism and patriotism. She also discusses the dynamics of
ethnicity and race, especially in an urban context. Moreover, she
provides sober, realistic solutions to these difficulties. Her
reputation is once again restored to its rightful place by the
reissue of this profound and far-seeing work. It undoubtedly will
enlighten a whole new generation about the limitations and failures
of modern government.
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