Elephants and Golden Thrones


Book Description

With contributions from the Palace Museum (the official museum of the Forbidden City), this is a definitive guide to one of the wonders of the world.




Thirty-Three Ways of Looking at an Elephant


Book Description

Elephants have captivated the human imagination for as long as they have roamed the earth, appearing in writings and cultures from thousands of years ago and still much discussed today. In Thirty-Three Ways of Looking at an Elephant, veteran scientific writer Dale Peterson has collected thirty-three essential writings about elephants from across history, with geographical perspectives ranging from Africa and Southeast Asia to Europe and the United States. An introductory headnote for each selection provides additional context and insights from Peterson’s substantial knowledge of elephants and natural history. The first section of the anthology, “Cultural and Classical Elephants,” explores the earliest mentions of elephants in African mythology, Hindu theology, and Aristotle and other ancient Greek texts. “Colonial and Industrial Elephants” finds elephants in the crosshairs of colonial exploitation in accounts pulled from memoirs commoditizing African elephants as a source of ivory, novel targets for bloodsport, and occasional export for circuses and zoos. “Working and Performing Elephants” gives firsthand accounts of the often cruel training methods and treatment inflicted on elephants to achieve submission and obedience. As elephants became an object of scientific curiosity in the mid-twentieth century, wildlife biologists explored elephant families and kinship, behaviors around sex and love, language and self-awareness, and enhanced communications with sound and smell. The pieces featured in “Scientific and Social Elephants” give readers a glimpse into major discoveries in elephant behaviors. “Endangered Elephants” points to the future of the elephant, whose numbers continue to be ravaged by ivory poachers. Peterson concludes with a section on fictional and literary elephants and ends on a hopeful note with the 1967 essay “Dear Elephant, Sir,” which argues for the moral imperative to save elephants as an act of redemption for their systematic abuse and mistreatment at human hands. Essential to understanding the history and experience of this beloved and misunderstood creature, Thirty-Three Ways of Looking at an Elephant is a must for any elephant lover or armchair environmentalist.




The Burman


Book Description




The Burman, His Life and Notions


Book Description

This classic introduction to Burmese cultures includes the following short chapters: I. First Years II. School Days III. Buddhist Baptism IV. Life in the Monastery V. Tattooing VI. Ear-Boring VII. Marriage VIII. Domestic Life IX. The House and Its Belongings X. The Earth and Its Beginning XI. The Ladder of Existence XII. The Noble Order of the Yellow Robe XIII. The Monasteries XIV. Schismatics XV. Pagodas XVI. The Legend of the Rangoon Pagoda XVII. Images XVIII. Bells XIX. A Pagoda Feast XX. Duty Days XXI. The End of Lent XXII. Nats and Spirit-Worship XXIII. Rice Cultivation XXIV. A Gracious Ploughing XXV. A Harvest Feast XXVI. Silk-Growing XXVII. Lacquer Ware XXVIII. Nga-Pee XXIX. Plays XXX. Dancing XXXI. Music and Songs XXXII. The Tawadehntha Feast XXXIII. A Sohn-Daw-Gyee Feast XXXIV. A Work of Merit XXXV. The New Year’S Feast XXXVI. A Boat-Race XXXVII. Chess XXXVIII. Games XXXIX. Lucky and Unlucky Days XL. The Butterfly Spirit XLI. Cholera Specifics XLII. Making Gold XLIII. Sumptuary Laws and Etiquette XLIV. Wizards, Doctors, and Wise Men XLV. Slaves and Outcasts XLVI. Forming the National Character XLVII. The Lord of the Celestial Elephant and of Many White Elephants XLVIII. King Theebaw XLIX. King Theebaw L. King Theebaw LI. The Palace LII. The Lord White Elephant LIII. Ministers of State LIV. The Burmese Army LV. Judicial Administration LVI. Revenue System LVII. Land Tenure LVIII. Mandalay and Rangoon LIX. Eras, Computation of Time, Weight, Etc. LX. The Language LXI. Selections From the Literature LXII. Stray Notes LXIII. A Pohn-Gyee Byan LXIV. Death and Burial




War Elephants


Book Description

Elephants have fought in human armies for more than three thousand years. This is the largely forgotten tale of the credit they deserve and the sacrifices they endured.




Outline of History


Book Description

Embark on a captivating journey through time with "Outline of History" by H.G. Wells, a timeless exploration of humanity's past, present, and future that offers readers a sweeping panorama of world history. Join Wells as he takes readers on an epic odyssey from the dawn of civilization to the modern age, weaving together the threads of human achievement, discovery, and evolution into a rich tapestry of human experience. In this magisterial work, H.G. Wells traces the course of human history from its earliest origins to the present day, offering readers a comprehensive overview of the key events, movements, and developments that have shaped the world we live in. From the rise and fall of ancient civilizations to the great conflicts and revolutions of the modern era, Wells provides readers with a panoramic view of the forces that have shaped the course of human civilization. Through his engaging prose and insightful analysis, Wells illuminates the interconnectedness of human history, revealing the ways in which the actions of individuals and societies have shaped the course of world events. From the achievements of great leaders and thinkers to the struggles of ordinary people, Wells brings to life the triumphs and tribulations of the human journey, offering readers a deeper understanding of the forces that have shaped the world we inhabit. The overall tone and mood of "Outline of History" are one of curiosity and wonder, as Wells invites readers to explore the vast tapestry of human experience with open minds and hearts. With his characteristic wit and insight, Wells guides readers through the corridors of time, shedding light on the hidden truths and forgotten moments that have shaped the course of human history. Widely acclaimed for its breadth of scope and depth of insight, "Outline of History" has stood the test of time as a classic work of historical scholarship. Wells's engaging prose and wide-ranging perspective make this book accessible to readers of all backgrounds and interests, offering a compelling introduction to the sweep of human history for scholars and casual readers alike. Designed to appeal to readers of all ages and backgrounds, "Outline of History" is a timeless masterpiece that continues to inspire and enlighten readers around the world. Whether you're a student of history or simply curious about the human journey, this book offers a fascinating glimpse into the past and a thought-provoking reflection on the present and future of humanity. In comparison to other works of historical scholarship, "Outline of History" stands out for its accessibility, readability, and breadth of coverage. Wells's engaging prose and wide-ranging perspective make this book a valuable resource for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of the forces that have shaped the world we live in. On a personal level, "Outline of History" resonates with readers by offering a compelling narrative of the human journey, filled with moments of triumph, tragedy, and transformation. Wells's insightful analysis and thought-provoking reflections encourage readers to think critically about the lessons of history and their implications for the present and future. Don't miss your chance to explore the epic sweep of human history with "Outline of History" by H.G. Wells. Let this timeless masterpiece be your guide to a deeper understanding of the forces that have shaped the world we live in. Grab your copy now and embark on an unforgettable journey through time with one of history's greatest storytellers.




THE ESSENTIAL H. G. WELLS: Novels, Short Stories, Essays & Articles in One Edition


Book Description

This carefully edited collection has been designed and formatted to the highest digital standards and adjusted for readability on all devices. H. G. Wells, was a prolific English writer in many genres, including the novel, history, politics, and social commentary, and textbooks and rules for war games. He is now best remembered for his science fiction novels, and Wells is called a father of science fiction. Table of Contents: H. G. Wells by J. D. Beresford Mr. Wells as Historian by Arnold Wycombe Gomme Mr. H. G. Wells and the Giants by G. K. Chesterton Essays and Articles Novels and Short Stories: A Modern Utopia Ann Veronica Bealby In the Days of the Comet Joan and Peter Kipps Love and Mr. Lewisham Marriage Mr. Britling Sees It Through The Chronic Argonauts The First Men in the Moon The Food of the Gods The History of Mr Polly The Invisible Man The Island of Dr Moreau The New Machiavelli The Passionate Friends The Prophetic Trilogy The Research Magnificent The Sea Lady The Secret Places of the Heart The Soul of a Bishop The Time Machine The Undying Fire The War in the Air The War of the Worlds The Wheels of Chance The Wife of Sir Isaac Harman The Wonderful Visit The World Set Free Tono-bungay When the Sleeper Wakes Collections of Short Stories Short Stories: A Catastrophe A Deal in Ostriches A Dream of Armageddon A Slip Under the Microscope A Story of the Days to Come A Story of the Stone Age A Tale of the Twentieth Century A Talk with Gryllotalpa How Gabriel Became Thompson How Pingwill Was Routed In the Abyss Le Mari Terrible Little Mother Up the Morderberg Miss Winchelsea's Heart Mr. Brisher's Treasure Mr. Ledbetter's Vacation Mr. Marshall's Doppelganger...




The Genius of H. G. Wells: 120+ Sci-Fi Novels & Stories in One Volume


Book Description

This carefully edited collection has been designed and formatted to the highest digital standards and adjusted for readability on all devices. H. G. Wells (1866-1946) was a prolific English writer of fiction works, history and politics. Wells is called a father of science fiction. Table of Contents: A Modern Utopia Ann Veronica Bealby In the Days of the Comet The Chronic Argonauts The First Men in the Moon The Invisible Man The Island of Dr Moreau The New Machiavelli The Passionate Friends The Prophetic Trilogy The Research Magnificent The Sea Lady The Secret Places of the Heart The Soul of a Bishop The Time Machine The Undying Fire The War in the Air The War of the Worlds The World Set Free Tono-bungay When the Sleeper Wakes Collections of Short Stories Short Stories: A Catastrophe A Deal in Ostriches A Dream of Armageddon A Slip Under the Microscope A Story of the Days to Come A Story of the Stone Age A Tale of the Twentieth Century A Talk with Gryllotalpa How Gabriel Became Thompson How Pingwill Was Routed In the Abyss Le Mari Terrible Miss Winchelsea's Heart Mr. Brisher's Treasure Mr. Ledbetter's Vacation Mr. Marshall's Doppelganger Mr. Skelmersdale in Fairyland My First Aeroplane Our Little Neighbour Perfect Gentleman on Wheels Pollock and the Porroh Man The Empire of the Ants The Flying Man The Grisly Folk The Inexperienced Ghost The Land Ironclads The Lord of the Dynamos The Loyalty of Esau Common The Magic Shop The Man Who Could Work Miracles The Man with a Nose The Moth The New Accelerator The New Faust The Obliterated Man The Pearl of Love The Presence by the Fire The Purple Pileus The Rajah's Treasure The Reconciliation The Red Room The Sea Raiders The Star The Stolen Body The Story of the Last Trump The Story of the Stone Age The Temptation of Harringay The Thing in No. 7...







Mapping the Acehnese Past


Book Description

Aceh has become best known in our times for its twin disasters—the worst earthquake and tsunami of modern times in December 2004, and a long-running separatist conflict that rent Indonesia for most of its independent history. Although this book emerged from the process of recovery from those traumas, it turns the spotlight on a more positive and neglected claim Aceh has on our attention, as the Southeast Asian maritime state that most successfully and creatively maintained its independent place in the world until 1874. Like Burma, Siam and Vietnam, all better protected by geography, Aceh has its own story to tell of a unique culture struggling for survival through the European colonial era. Unfortunately the sources for this story are scattered, since Aceh’s own records have not well survived the ravages of climate, civil war and eventual foreign conquest. To recover its cosmopolitan history an unparalleled range of sources and skills had to be brought together. Aceh’s central role in the creation of Malay literature out of Arabic, Persian, Indian and Indonesian elements had to be explored with reference to texts surviving in a dozen world libraries (Teuku Iskandar, Amirul Hadi). The rich archeological record, neglected through the long years of conflict, had again to be brought into play (Daniel Perret), and the extensive relations of the Aceh sultanate with the Ottoman Empire (Ismail Göksoy and Ismail Kadı, Andrew Peacock & Annabel Gallop), Portugal (Jorge Alves), England (Annabel Gallop), and the Netherlands (Sher Banu and Jean Taylor) had to be explored, chiefly in European archives by experts in these respective fields. The result of this combined work in this volume is the most comprehensive picture so far of sources for the history of Aceh.




Recent Books