The English Mail-Coach and Joan of Arc By: Thomas De Quincey (1785-1859)
The English Mail-Coach and Joan of Arc by Thomas De Quincey is a remarkable compilation of two distinct yet thematically interconnected essays. De Quincey's eloquent prose takes readers on a captivating journey filled with vivid descriptions, historical insights, and profound reflections. Both pieces exemplify his exceptional ability to merge varied subjects while challenging conventional narratives. The first essay, "The English Mail-Coach," serves as an immersive exploration of the fast-paced and treacherous world of the mail-coach system in early 19th-century England. De Quincey cleverly presents the mail-coach as a symbol of national pride and technological advancements. His meticulous attention to detail breathes life into the narrative, painting a vivid picture of the coachmen's courage and the passengers' anxieties. Through this engaging account, De Quincey ultimately reflects upon the transitory nature of human existence, expanding his exploration beyond the surface-level description of a mail-coach ride. In the second essay, "Joan of Arc," De Quincey shifts gears to examine the historical figure of Joan of Arc from a unique perspective. Rather than focusing solely on her deeds and accomplishments, De Quincey delves into the psychology behind her actions, subtly connecting her story to contemporary sociopolitical events. He delves into the deep emotional turmoil that Joan endured, while highlighting her remarkable resilience and unwavering faith. Through his in-depth analysis, De Quincey ultimately explores the themes of heroism, truth-seeking, and the forces that shape collective memory. What sets this collection apart is De Quincey's masterful storytelling and his ability to tie seemingly unconnected topics together. His rich, sensory descriptions plunge readers into time periods and settings so vivid that one can practically smell the leather of the mail-coach or feel the intensity of Joan's inner conflicts. Furthermore, De Quincey's personal insights and philosophical musings add depth and intellectual stimulation to both essays, making them far more than just historical accounts. Although some readers may find De Quincey's eloquence at times excessively flowery and his tangents slightly distracting, the overall effect is an intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant experience. The English Mail-Coach and Joan of Arc is a thought-provoking collection that showcases De Quincey's literary brilliance and his ability to bridge disparate subjects. It is a testament to the power of language to transport and enlighten, urging readers to reconsider their perceptions of both history and human nature. First Page: THE ENGLISH MAIL COACH AND JOAN OF ARC BY THOMAS DE QUINCEY EDITED WITH INTRODUCTION AND NOTES BY MILTON HAIGHT TURK, PH.D. TO CHARLES DEACON CREE THIS LITTLE VOLUME IS AFFECTIONATELY INSCRIBED Glencairn, Kilmacolm, Scotland June 27, 1905 PREFACE Some portions of this Introduction have been taken from the Athenæum Press Selections from De Quincey ; many of the notes have also been transferred from that volume. A number of the new notes I owe to a review of the Selections by Dr. Lane Cooper, of Cornell University. I wish also to thank for many favors the Committee and officers of the Glasgow University Library. If a word by way of suggestion to teachers be pertinent, I would venture to remark that the object of the teacher of literature is, of course, only to fulfill the desire of the author to make clear his facts and to bring home his ideas in all their power and beauty. Introductions and notes are only means to this end. Teachers, I think, sometimes lose sight of this fact; I know it is fatally easy for students to forget it. That teacher will have rendered a great service who has kept his pupils alive to the real aim of their studies, to know the author, not to know of him. M.H.T CONTENTS INTRODUCTION I. LIFE II. CRITICAL REMARKS III... Continue reading book >>

The English Mail-Coach and Joan of Arc By: Thomas De Quincey (1785-1859)

The English Mail-Coach and Joan of Arc by Thomas De Quincey is a remarkable compilation of two distinct yet thematically interconnected essays. De Quincey's eloquent prose takes readers on a captivating journey filled with vivid descriptions, historical insights, and profound reflections. Both pieces exemplify his exceptional ability to merge varied subjects while challenging conventional narratives.

The first essay, "The English Mail-Coach," serves as an immersive exploration of the fast-paced and treacherous world of the mail-coach system in early 19th-century England. De Quincey cleverly presents the mail-coach as a symbol of national pride and technological advancements. His meticulous attention to detail breathes life into the narrative, painting a vivid picture of the coachmen's courage and the passengers' anxieties. Through this engaging account, De Quincey ultimately reflects upon the transitory nature of human existence, expanding his exploration beyond the surface-level description of a mail-coach ride.

In the second essay, "Joan of Arc," De Quincey shifts gears to examine the historical figure of Joan of Arc from a unique perspective. Rather than focusing solely on her deeds and accomplishments, De Quincey delves into the psychology behind her actions, subtly connecting her story to contemporary sociopolitical events. He delves into the deep emotional turmoil that Joan endured, while highlighting her remarkable resilience and unwavering faith. Through his in-depth analysis, De Quincey ultimately explores the themes of heroism, truth-seeking, and the forces that shape collective memory.

What sets this collection apart is De Quincey's masterful storytelling and his ability to tie seemingly unconnected topics together. His rich, sensory descriptions plunge readers into time periods and settings so vivid that one can practically smell the leather of the mail-coach or feel the intensity of Joan's inner conflicts. Furthermore, De Quincey's personal insights and philosophical musings add depth and intellectual stimulation to both essays, making them far more than just historical accounts.

Although some readers may find De Quincey's eloquence at times excessively flowery and his tangents slightly distracting, the overall effect is an intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant experience. The English Mail-Coach and Joan of Arc is a thought-provoking collection that showcases De Quincey's literary brilliance and his ability to bridge disparate subjects. It is a testament to the power of language to transport and enlighten, urging readers to reconsider their perceptions of both history and human nature.

First Page:

THE ENGLISH MAIL COACH AND JOAN OF ARC

BY THOMAS DE QUINCEY

EDITED WITH INTRODUCTION AND NOTES BY MILTON HAIGHT TURK, PH.D.

TO CHARLES DEACON CREE THIS LITTLE VOLUME IS AFFECTIONATELY INSCRIBED Glencairn, Kilmacolm, Scotland June 27, 1905

PREFACE

Some portions of this Introduction have been taken from the Athenæum Press Selections from De Quincey ; many of the notes have also been transferred from that volume. A number of the new notes I owe to a review of the Selections by Dr. Lane Cooper, of Cornell University. I wish also to thank for many favors the Committee and officers of the Glasgow University Library.

If a word by way of suggestion to teachers be pertinent, I would venture to remark that the object of the teacher of literature is, of course, only to fulfill the desire of the author to make clear his facts and to bring home his ideas in all their power and beauty. Introductions and notes are only means to this end. Teachers, I think, sometimes lose sight of this fact; I know it is fatally easy for students to forget it. That teacher will have rendered a great service who has kept his pupils alive to the real aim of their studies, to know the author, not to know of him.

M.H.T

CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION I. LIFE II. CRITICAL REMARKS III... Continue reading book >>

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