The Connoisseur


Book Description




John Wilkes


Book Description

John Wilkes remains one of the most colourful and intriguing characters of eighteenth-century Britain. Born in 1725, the son of a prosperous London distiller, he was given the classical education of a gentleman, before entering politics as a Whig. Finding his party in opposition following the accession of George III in 1760 he took up his pen with sensational effect, and made a career out of excoriating the new administration and promoting the Whig interest. His charismatic style and vicious wit soon ensured that he became a figurehead for the radical cause, earning him many admirers and many enemies. Amongst the latter were the king, and the artist William Hogarth who famously depicted Wilkes as a grinning, squint-eyed, pug-nosed agent of misrule. Whilst Wilkes's political career has been much explored, particularly the period between 1763 and 1774, much less has been written about his remarkable private life. This biography provides a more comprehensive examination of Wilkes throughout his long life than has hitherto been available. Taking a thematic, rather than chronological approach it is divided into six main chapters covering family, ambition, sex, religion, class and money, which allows a much more rounded picture of Wilkes to emerge. In so doing it provides a fascinating insight, not only into one of the most intriguing characters of the Georgian period, but also into wider eighteenth-century British society and its shifting attitudes to morality, politics and gender.




Queen of the Courtesans


Book Description

Fanny Murray (1729-1778) was a famous Georgian beauty and courtesan, desired throughout England and often to be found pressed to a gentleman’s heart in the form of a printed disc secretly tucked into their pocket-watch. She rose from life in the ‘London stews’ to fame and fortune, through her career as a high-class courtesan. She was seduced and then abandoned, aged just 12, by Jack Spencer, grandson of Sarah, Duchess of Marlborough (and related to the Althorp-based Spencers). Her luck turned when she caught the eye of the infamous Beau Nash, ‘King of Bath’. But it was her time in London that promoted her to national fame and notoriety. After ten years at the top, she was heavily in debt, but managed to secure an arranged marriage to a respectable man. The scandals of her past caught up with her as she was named in the national scandal surrounding Wilke’s pornography case at the High Court.







The Ladies' Repository


Book Description




The Survey


Book Description




Doubtful Plays


Book Description




The Story Girl


Book Description

Reproduction of the original. The publishing house Megali specialises in reproducing historical works in large print to make reading easier for people with impaired vision.




LUCY MAUD MONTGOMERY - The Woman Behind The Books: Autobiography & Private Letters (Including The Complete Anne of Green Gables Series, Emily Starr Trilogy & The Blue Castle)


Book Description

Lucy Maud Montgomery's autobiography, 'The Woman Behind The Books,' offers readers a glimpse into the life of the beloved author known for her timeless works such as the 'Anne of Green Gables' series, 'Emily Starr Trilogy,' and 'The Blue Castle.' Through her private letters and personal reflections, Montgomery's literary style is revealed to be deeply rooted in her own experiences, painting a vivid picture of the inspirations behind her iconic characters and enchanting settings. This compilation provides a valuable insight into the literary context of Montgomery's work, showcasing the author's talent for storytelling and her ability to capture the essence of Canadian life in the early 20th century. Montgomery's writing is characterized by its nostalgic charm, engaging narratives, and universal themes of love, friendship, and the pursuit of one's dreams. Lucy Maud Montgomery's own life experiences, from her early struggles to her later successes, undoubtedly influenced her writing and shaped the narratives that have resonated with readers for generations. As a woman ahead of her time, Montgomery defied societal norms and pursued her passion for writing, ultimately leaving a lasting legacy in the world of literature. Her autobiography and private letters offer a rare and intimate look into the mind of a prolific author, shedding light on the personal motivations and struggles that fueled her creative genius. For fans of Lucy Maud Montgomery's work, 'The Woman Behind The Books' is a must-read, as it provides a deeper understanding of the author's life and the inspirations behind her beloved characters. Whether you are a longtime admirer of Montgomery's writing or a newcomer to her novels, this comprehensive compilation offers a unique opportunity to delve into the world of one of Canada's most celebrated literary figures.