Category Archives: History

The Royal Wedding of William & Catherine

I stood in the crowds just outside St. James’s Palace… The excitement was palpable and the camaraderie amazing – everyone I spoke with – strangers- were friendly and joyous. I regard that day as one of the best days of my life. I will never forget being a part of that wonderful feeling of happiness to see such… Read on

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Kensington Palace Garden History Tours

This is the first time Kensington Palace has offered Garden History Tours! They will be free of charge and last between 45 minutes to 1 hour. All you need to do is sign up at either the Queen’s Entrance or the hub area inside the palace. Please be aware these tours are only for the summer months, from… Read on

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“Writing The Tudors” – an Evening with Michael Hirst

The Tudors television series was a massively popular hit around the world. It’s sexy! It’s entertaining! Everyone looks like a model! Henry VIII wasn’t a ginger fat bloke, but a dark-haired god! Well, to be perfectly blunt, it’s become a bit of a joke within the academic world. Historians have criticised the show, and its writer, Michael Hirst, for being lax… Read on

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A Visit to Exeter Cathedral

I recently went to Exeter to visit some of my husband’s friends and also to do some research at Exeter Cathedral – which is a very impressive cathedral. William of Orange (King William III) came here during his progress during the Glorious Revolution of 1688, so it was imperative for my research to come here. I firmly believe… Read on

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“Judith Slaying Holofernes” – Artemisia Gentileschi

This powerful, violent, bloody painting by Artemisia Gentileschi is an excellent example of Baroque art. It is currently located in il Museo Nazionale di Capodimonte, Napoli, Italy. If you’d like to learn more about Artemisia, click here: http://www.artemisia-gentileschi.com/index.shtml

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The Virtues by Marcus Aurelius

* Auctoritas – “Spiritual Authority” – The sense of one’s social standing, built up through experience, Pietas, and Industria. * Comitas – “Humour” – Ease of manner, courtesy, openness, and friendliness. * Clementia – “Mercy” – Mildness and gentleness. * Dignitas – “Dignity” – A sense of self-worth, personal pride. * Firmitas – “Tenacity” – Strength of mind,… Read on

A Trip to Shakespeare’s Birthplace

I recently went to Stratford-upon-Avon to visit the birthplace of my favourite writer William Shakespeare.  The building is located in very close proximity to the town centre, which boasts several good pubs and shops. Upon entering and paying the entry fee, we walked through to a dark room which had a very good video about Shakespeare and the… Read on

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“Seventeenth Century Lady” by William Merritt Chase

Image: The Metropolitan Museum of Art.     This painting by William Merritt Chase is called, “Seventeenth Century Lady.” Why, I do not know, for the dress is definitely not 17th century, it is from the 19th century.

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