Bell's Cathedrals: The Cathedral Church of Wells A Description of Its Fabric and a Brief History of the Episcopal See   By: Percy Dearmer (1867-1936)

In Bell's Cathedrals: The Cathedral Church of Wells, Percy Dearmer provides readers with an exquisite and detailed description of the magnificent Wells Cathedral. Coupled with a concise yet comprehensive history of the Episcopal See, Dearmer offers a captivating exploration of this architectural treasure.

From the very beginning, Dearmer's passion for Wells Cathedral shines through his expressive words, immediately drawing the reader into the grandeur of this sacred space. Through his vivid descriptions, Dearmer paints a rich tapestry of the architecture, from the awe-inspiring beauty of the nave to the intricate details of the stained glass windows. His meticulous attention to detail allows readers to truly envision the awe-inspiring beauty of Wells Cathedral.

Additionally, Dearmer's inclusion of a brief history of the Episcopal See enhances the reading experience by providing invaluable context. He effortlessly weaves together the historical narratives of bishops and monarchs, imparting a greater understanding of how the cathedral and the diocese have evolved over time. This historical perspective further deepens the reader's appreciation for Wells Cathedral, creating a multidimensional experience.

Dearmer's prose is both eloquent and accessible, making the book a pleasure to read for both scholars and casual readers alike. While his deep knowledge of architecture and ecclesiastical history is evident, he presents the information in a digestible manner, avoiding overwhelming technical jargon. This allows readers to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for Wells Cathedral without feeling intimidated or excluded.

Furthermore, Dearmer's passion for preservation and restoration is evident throughout the book. His dedication to ensuring the longevity and continued beauty of Wells Cathedral shines through, raising awareness of the ongoing efforts required to maintain such a magnificent structure. This serves to deepen the reader's connection to the cathedral and its historical significance.

However, one aspect that could be improved upon is the inclusion of more visual aids such as photographs or illustrations. While Dearmer's descriptions paint a vivid picture, visual representations would greatly enhance the reader's ability to fully grasp the detailed intricacies of Wells Cathedral.

Overall, Bell's Cathedrals: The Cathedral Church of Wells is an outstanding work of literature. Percy Dearmer's passion, knowledge, and eloquence make this book a delightful and informative read. Whether one is interested in architecture, history, or simply fascinated by the beauty of cathedrals, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking to explore the magnificence of Wells Cathedral and its Episcopal See.

First Page:

To specify all the authorities which have been made use of in each case would be difficult and tedious in this place. But amongst the general sources of information which have been almost invariably found useful are: (1) the great county histories, the value of which, especially in questions of genealogy and local records, is generally recognised; (2) the numerous papers by experts which appear from time to time in the Transactions of the Antiquarian and Archaeological Societies; (3) the important documents made accessible in the series issued by the Master of the Rolls; (4) the well known works of Britton and Willis on the English Cathedrals; and (5) the very excellent series of Handbooks to the Cathedrals originated by the late Mr John Murray; to which the reader may in most cases be referred for fuller detail, especially in reference to the histories of the respective sees... Continue reading book >>