Old St. Paul's Cathedral By: William Benham (1831-1910)
Old St. Paul's Cathedral by William Benham is a captivating and insightful exploration of one of London's most iconic landmarks. Benham's extensive research and attention to detail make this book an absolute delight for history enthusiasts. The book takes readers on a journey through time, starting with the origins of the original cathedral in the 7th century and chronicling its transformation over the centuries. Benham's descriptive narrative paints a vivid picture of life in medieval London and the significance of St. Paul's Cathedral to the city's inhabitants. One of the most commendable aspects of this book is Benham's ability to balance historical facts with engaging storytelling. He brings to life the key figures involved in the cathedral's construction, such as the legendary architect Christopher Wren, and their struggles to create a masterpiece against all odds. The author's passion for the subject matter shines through his writing, making it easy for readers to become fully immersed in the historical events. What sets Old St. Paul's Cathedral apart from other historical texts is Benham's inclusion of lesser-known anecdotes and tidbits about the cathedral. From the aftermath of the Great Fire of London to the daily routines of the cathedral clergy, the book offers a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the cathedral's role in society beyond its architectural significance. Additionally, the inclusion of beautiful illustrations and photographs further enhances the reading experience, allowing readers to visualize the magnificence of the cathedral in its various iterations. Whether it's the detailed engravings of the Gothic structure or the stunning depictions of the cathedral's interior, these visual elements truly bring the history of Old St. Paul's to life. While the book's primary focus is on the architectural and historical aspects of the cathedral, Benham also touches on the spiritual and religious significance of St. Paul's throughout the centuries. This multi-dimensional approach adds depth to the narrative, making it a well-rounded exploration of the cathedral's legacy. In conclusion, Old St. Paul's Cathedral by William Benham is a must-read for history buffs and anyone interested in the rich tapestry of London's past. Benham's meticulous research, captivating storytelling, and the inclusion of breathtaking visuals make this book a true gem. It is a fitting tribute to a remarkable structure that has stood the test of time and continues to inspire awe and wonder. First Page: [Illustration: Old St Paul's and the Three Cranes Wharf.] OLD ST. PAUL'S CATHEDRAL By WILLIAM BENHAM, D.D., F.S.A. Rector of St. Edmund the King, Lombard Street, and Honorary Canon of Canterbury [Illustration] LONDON SEELEY AND CO. LIMITED, GREAT RUSSELL STREET NEW YORK: THE MACMILLAN COMPANY 1902 LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS OLD ST. PAUL'S AND THE THREE CRANES WHARF. Compiled from old Drawings and Prints. Frontispiece. A BISHOP PLACING RELICS IN AN ALTAR. From a Pontifical of the Fourteenth Century. British Museum, Lans. 451. P. 6 A PAPAL LEGATE. From a MS. of the Decretals of Boniface VIII. British Museum, 23923. P. 6 A FUNERAL PROCESSION. From a MS. of the Hours of the Virgin. British Museum, 27697. P. 10 A PONTIFICAL MASS. From a Missal of the Fifteenth Century. British Museum, 19897. P. 54 BISHOP AND CANONS IN THE CHURCH OF ST. GREGORY BY ST. PAUL'S. From a MS. of Lydgate's Life of St. Edmund. British Museum, Harl. 2278. P. 62 Wenceslaus Hollar to whose engravings of Old St. Paul's we are indebted for our exceptional knowledge of the aspect of a building that has perished was born in Prague in 1607, and was brought to England by the Earl of Arundel, who had seen some of his work at Cologne. He soon obtained profitable employment, producing engravings both of figures and views in rapid succession, and about 1639 he was appointed drawing master to the Prince of Wales, afterwards Charles II... Continue reading book >>

Old St. Paul's Cathedral By: William Benham (1831-1910)

Old St. Paul's Cathedral by William Benham is a captivating and insightful exploration of one of London's most iconic landmarks. Benham's extensive research and attention to detail make this book an absolute delight for history enthusiasts.

The book takes readers on a journey through time, starting with the origins of the original cathedral in the 7th century and chronicling its transformation over the centuries. Benham's descriptive narrative paints a vivid picture of life in medieval London and the significance of St. Paul's Cathedral to the city's inhabitants.

One of the most commendable aspects of this book is Benham's ability to balance historical facts with engaging storytelling. He brings to life the key figures involved in the cathedral's construction, such as the legendary architect Christopher Wren, and their struggles to create a masterpiece against all odds. The author's passion for the subject matter shines through his writing, making it easy for readers to become fully immersed in the historical events.

What sets Old St. Paul's Cathedral apart from other historical texts is Benham's inclusion of lesser-known anecdotes and tidbits about the cathedral. From the aftermath of the Great Fire of London to the daily routines of the cathedral clergy, the book offers a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the cathedral's role in society beyond its architectural significance.

Additionally, the inclusion of beautiful illustrations and photographs further enhances the reading experience, allowing readers to visualize the magnificence of the cathedral in its various iterations. Whether it's the detailed engravings of the Gothic structure or the stunning depictions of the cathedral's interior, these visual elements truly bring the history of Old St. Paul's to life.

While the book's primary focus is on the architectural and historical aspects of the cathedral, Benham also touches on the spiritual and religious significance of St. Paul's throughout the centuries. This multi-dimensional approach adds depth to the narrative, making it a well-rounded exploration of the cathedral's legacy.

In conclusion, Old St. Paul's Cathedral by William Benham is a must-read for history buffs and anyone interested in the rich tapestry of London's past. Benham's meticulous research, captivating storytelling, and the inclusion of breathtaking visuals make this book a true gem. It is a fitting tribute to a remarkable structure that has stood the test of time and continues to inspire awe and wonder.

First Page:

[Illustration: Old St Paul's and the Three Cranes Wharf.]

OLD ST. PAUL'S CATHEDRAL

WILLIAM BENHAM, D.D., F.S.A.

Rector of St. Edmund the King, Lombard Street, and Honorary Canon of Canterbury

[Illustration]

LONDON

SEELEY AND CO. LIMITED, GREAT RUSSELL STREET

NEW YORK: THE MACMILLAN COMPANY

1902

LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS

OLD ST. PAUL'S AND THE THREE CRANES WHARF. Compiled from old Drawings and Prints. Frontispiece.

A BISHOP PLACING RELICS IN AN ALTAR. From a Pontifical of the Fourteenth Century. British Museum, Lans. 451. P. 6

A PAPAL LEGATE. From a MS. of the Decretals of Boniface VIII. British Museum, 23923. P. 6

A FUNERAL PROCESSION. From a MS. of the Hours of the Virgin. British Museum, 27697. P. 10

A PONTIFICAL MASS. From a Missal of the Fifteenth Century. British Museum, 19897. P. 54

BISHOP AND CANONS IN THE CHURCH OF ST. GREGORY BY ST. PAUL'S. From a MS. of Lydgate's Life of St. Edmund. British Museum, Harl. 2278. P. 62

Wenceslaus Hollar to whose engravings of Old St. Paul's we are indebted for our exceptional knowledge of the aspect of a building that has perished was born in Prague in 1607, and was brought to England by the Earl of Arundel, who had seen some of his work at Cologne. He soon obtained profitable employment, producing engravings both of figures and views in rapid succession, and about 1639 he was appointed drawing master to the Prince of Wales, afterwards Charles II... Continue reading book >>

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History

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