In the Name of the Bodleian, and Other Essays

Name: In the Name of the Bodleian, and Other Essays
Author: Augustine Birrell

By Augustine Birrell

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Essays, Letters & Speeches

About This Book

A series of short, reflective essays examines books, libraries, and the habits of readers and collectors, opening with an impression of a famous university library and extending to meditations on book-collecting, decay and preservation, and the quirks of librarians and bibliophiles. Several essays offer concise portraits of literary and public figures and probe issues of authorship, biography, editorial legend, and copyright, while others take up legal and parliamentary practices, epitaphs, and travel impressions. The pieces blend anecdote, mild irony, and bibliographical detail to consider how texts, institutions, and readers contribute to cultural memory.

About the Author

Augustine Birrell

Augustine Birrell was an English author and politician, known for his essays and literary criticism. His works often reflect a deep appreciation for literature and the arts, as seen in titles such as "Men, Women, and Books" and "Obiter Dicta." Birrell's writing is characterized by its wit and insight, making significant contributions to the understanding of notable literary figures, including his biographical study of Andrew Marvell. In addition to his literary pursuits, he served as a member of Parliament and held the position of Chief Secretary for Ireland, intertwining his political career with his literary endeavors.