A Year's Journey through France and Part of Spain, Volume 2   By: Philip Thicknesse (1719-1792)

In Volume 2 of "A Year's Journey through France and Part of Spain," author Philip Thicknesse continues to delight readers with his vivid descriptions and amusing anecdotes from his travels. This travelogue serves as an invaluable glimpse into 18th-century Europe, capturing the essence of French and Spanish cultures with remarkable detail.

Thicknesse's writing style remains charmingly candid and refreshingly honest. Through his observations, he immerses readers in the bustling streets of Paris, the picturesque landscapes of Bordeaux, and the vibrant city of Madrid. His keen eye for detail brings each destination to life, painting a vivid picture that enables readers to visualize themselves wandering through the streets and experiencing the local customs firsthand.

One of the most captivating aspects of this travelogue is Thicknesse's ability to transport readers to a bygone era. His descriptions of historical landmarks, such as the Palace of Versailles and the Louvre Museum, are written with such passion and reverence that one can almost feel the weight of the history that surrounds them. The author's deep appreciation for art and architecture shines through his words, making these passages particularly captivating.

What sets this volume apart is the author's engaging storytelling. Thicknesse's encounters with various individuals, both influential and ordinary, are recounted with wit and humor. Whether it is his amusing interactions with locals or his encounters with notable figures, such as Voltaire, the author's anecdotes add a layer of entertainment to the narrative, making it both enlightening and enjoyable.

As with any travelogue, there are moments when the pace slows down, particularly during Thicknesse's more reflective musings on culture and society. While these sections provide valuable insights into the author's perceptions, they may not appeal to readers seeking a fast-paced narrative. However, Thicknesse's wit and engaging prose ensure that these moments are still worth savoring.

While the absence of a title makes it challenging to recommend this book directly, it is undoubtedly a must-read for history enthusiasts, fans of travel literature, and those with an interest in 18th-century Europe. Philip Thicknesse's "A Year's Journey through France and Part of Spain, Volume 2" offers a captivating blend of adventure, history, and cultural immersion that will leave readers yearning for more.

First Page:

I am very certain that a man may travel twice through Spain, and half through France, before he sees a woman of so much beauty, elegance, and breeding, as the mistress of the house I lodge in near this city. I was directed to the house, and recommended to the lady, as a lodger; but both were so fine, and superior in all respects to any thing I had seen out of Paris, that I began to suspect I had been imposed upon. The lady who received me appeared to be (it was candle light) about eighteen, a tall, elegant figure, a beautiful face, and an address inferior to none: I concluded she was the daughter, till she informed me, that Mons. Saigny , her husband, was gone to Avignon . What added, perhaps, to this lady's beauty in my eyes, or rather ears, was her misfortune, she could not speak louder than a gentle whisper. After seeing her sumptuous apartments, I told her I would not ask what her price was, but tell her what I could afford only to give; and observed, that as it was winter, and the snow upon the ground, perhaps she had better take my price than have none... Continue reading book >>