The Customs of Old England   By: F. J. (Frederick John) Snell (1862-)

In "The Customs of Old England" by F. J. Snell, readers are taken on an enlightening journey to explore the rich tapestry of English customs throughout history. Snell's comprehensive study provides a fascinating glimpse into the varied traditions, practices, and rituals that have shaped the cultural landscape of old England.

From the outset, Snell's meticulous research and attention to detail shine through, making this a valuable resource for anyone interested in the subject matter. The book covers a wide range of customs, delving into ancient pagan festivities, medieval rituals, and the influence of Christianity on everyday life. Snell brings these practices to life with vivid descriptions, shedding light on the symbolic significance and social context behind each tradition.

One of the book's strengths lies in Snell's ability to weave historical anecdotes and personal accounts into the narrative. This adds an intimate touch, captivating readers and making the customs more relatable and accessible. Whether recounting the boisterous celebrations of May Day or the solemnity of the Harvest Festival, Snell invites us to envision ourselves as participants in these time-honored traditions.

Furthermore, Snell seamlessly addresses the broader societal implications of these customs. He delves into their connections to class divisions, gender roles, and political structures, analyzing how they reflected and reinforced the cultural norms of their respective eras. Snell's insightful commentary elevates this work beyond a mere catalog of customs, transforming it into a thought-provoking exploration of English society.

Although the book is rich in detail, some readers may find the sheer volume of information overwhelming at times. The numerous customs discussed can occasionally blur together, making it challenging to retain a clear mental picture of each one. However, the book's organization, with each chapter focusing on a particular theme or time period, helps mitigate this issue to an extent.

In terms of writing style, Snell's prose is engaging and accessible, striking a fine balance between scholarly analysis and readability. The author's passion for the subject matter is evident, infusing the book with an infectious enthusiasm that draws readers in from cover to cover. Additionally, the inclusion of illustrations and photographs throughout the text further enhances the reading experience, providing visual aids that bring the customs to life.

In conclusion, "The Customs of Old England" by F. J. Snell is a captivating and informative exploration of the customs, rituals, and traditions that have shaped English culture throughout the ages. Snell's meticulous research, personal anecdotes, and insightful analysis make this a must-read for history enthusiasts, culture buffs, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the customs that continue to influence English society today.

First Page:

1 The Mighty Atom Marie Corelli 2 Jane Marie Corelli 3 Boy Marie Corelli 231 Cameos Marie Corelli 4 Spanish Gold G. A. Birmingham 9 The Unofficial Honeymoon Dolf Wyllarde 18 Round the Red Lamp Sir A. Conan Doyle 20 Light Freights W. W. Jacobs 22 The Long Road John Oxenham 71 The Gates of Wrath Arnold Bennett 81 The Card Arnold Bennett 87 Lalage's Lovers G. A. Birmingham 92 White Fang Jack London 108 The Adventures of Dr. Whitty G. A. Birmingham 113 Lavender and Old Lace Myrtle Reed 125 The Regent Arnold Bennett 135 A Spinner in the Sun Myrtle Reed 137 The Mystery of Dr. Fu Manchu Sax Rohmer 143 Sandy Married Dorothea Conyers 212 Under Western Eyes Joseph Conrad 215 Mr. Grex of Monte Carlo E. Phillips Oppenheim 224 Broken Shackles John Oxenham 227 Byeways Robert Hichens 229 My Friend the Chauffeur C... Continue reading book >>