Books Should Be Free
Loyal Books
Free Public Domain Audiobooks & eBook Downloads
Search by: Title, Author or Keyword

Alexandria and Her Schools; four lectures delivered at the Philosophical Institution, Edinburgh   By: (1819-1875)

Book cover

In "Alexandria and Her Schools; four lectures delivered at the Philosophical Institution, Edinburgh," Charles Kingsley takes readers on a captivating journey through the renowned ancient city of Alexandria, shedding light on its profound influence on the intellectual landscape of the time.

Kingsley's writing style effortlessly blends historical facts with an engaging narrative, ensuring that readers are both educated and entertained. The author's meticulous research is evident as he presents a comprehensive account of Alexandria's schools and philosophers, covering topics from literature and philosophy to mathematics and astronomy.

One of the remarkable aspects of Kingsley's lectures is his ability to transport readers back in time, allowing them to witness the intellectual fervor that permeated Alexandria in its prime. Through vivid descriptions, readers can almost feel the bustling streets, smell the aroma of the Library of Alexandria, and hear the passionate debates among scholars.

The author masterfully delves into the lives and philosophies of key figures such as Plato, Euclid, and Ptolemy while highlighting their contributions to human knowledge. Kingsley appreciates the multifaceted nature of these philosophers' works, often interweaving anecdotes and historical context to provide a more personal understanding of their intellectual struggles.

While the book delves into the brilliance of Alexandria's schools, it does not shy away from the controversies and conflicts that marked the city's intellectual landscape. Kingsley explores the tensions between various schools of thought, highlighting the clash between pagan beliefs and the rise of early Christianity. Such discussions add depth to the narrative and depict the complexities of Alexandria's cultural tapestry.

In addition to the rich historical content, the author also raises thought-provoking questions about the decline and ultimate destruction of Alexandria's intellectual hub. With insightful analysis, he examines factors like changing political climates, religious conflicts, and the loss of the city's glorious Library. These reflections prompt readers to consider the importance of preserving knowledge and the fragility of intellectual achievements throughout history.

Kingsley's lectures in "Alexandria and Her Schools" are a testament to his talent as a storyteller and historian. His ability to bring the past to life is commendable, making this book a must-read for anyone fascinated by ancient civilizations, philosophy, and the pursuit of knowledge. Through his immersive narrative, readers gain a deeper appreciation for the city of Alexandria and its profound impact on intellectual history.

First Page:

ALEXANDRIA AND HER SCHOOLS {1}

PREFACE

I should not have presumed to choose for any lectures of mine such a subject as that which I have tried to treat in this book. The subject was chosen by the Institution where the lectures were delivered. Still less should I have presumed to print them of my own accord, knowing how fragmentary and crude they are. They were printed at the special request of my audience. Least of all, perhaps, ought I to have presumed to publish them, as I have done, at Cambridge, where any inaccuracy or sciolism (and that such defects exist in these pages, I cannot but fear) would be instantly detected, and severely censured: but nevertheless, it seemed to me that Cambridge was the fittest place in which they could see the light, because to Cambridge I mainly owe what little right method or sound thought may be found in them, or indeed, in anything which I have ever written. In the heyday of youthful greediness and ambition, when the mind, dazzled by the vastness and variety of the universe, must needs know everything, or rather know about everything, at once and on the spot, too many are apt, as I have been in past years, to complain of Cambridge studies as too dry and narrow: but as time teaches the student, year by year, what is really required for an understanding of the objects with which he meets, he begins to find that his University, in as far as he has really received her teaching into himself, has given him, in her criticism, her mathematics, above all, in Plato, something which all the popular knowledge, the lectures and institutions of the day, and even good books themselves, cannot give, a boon more precious than learning; namely, the art of learning... Continue reading book >>




eBook Downloads
ePUB eBook
• iBooks for iPhone and iPad
• Nook
• Sony Reader
Kindle eBook
• Mobi file format for Kindle
Read eBook
• Load eBook in browser
Text File eBook
• Computers
• Windows
• Mac

Review this book



Popular Genres
More Genres
Languages
Paid Books