Author
George Borrow
1803-1881
George Borrow (1803-1881) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by George Borrow
The Bible in Spain, Vol. 1 [of 2] Or, the Journeys, Adventures, and Imprisonments of an Englishman in an Attempt to Circulate the Scriptures in the Peninsula
"The Bible in Spain, Vol. 1 [of 2]" by George Borrow is a travel book published in 1843. Borrow recounts his adventures as a Bible salesman traversing Spain during the turbulent Carlist Civil War from 1835 to 1838. Facing opposition from the Catholic Church and politicians, he navigates encounters with everyone from prime ministers to beggars, Gypsies to crypto-Jews. His mission to distribute Spanish New Testaments leads to imprisonment, illness, and ultimately suppression, all while capturing vivid portraits of a wild, diverse Spain.
Romano Lavo-Lil: Word Book of the Romany; Or, English Gypsy Language With Specimens of Gypsy Poetry, and an Account of Certain Gypsyries or Places Inhabited by Them, and of Various Things Relating to Gypsy Life in England
"Romano Lavo-Lil: Word Book of the Romany; Or, English Gypsy Language" by George Borrow is a linguistic and cultural study written in the late 19th century. The book explores the Romany language, also known as the English Gypsy language, providing a detailed vocabulary alongside insights into the culture and customs of the Gypsies in England. It investigates the origins of Gypsy words, their grammatical structures, and how the language has evolved through interaction with other languages and cultures. The opening of the work begins with a playful exchange that's a sort of poetic introduction to the Romany language, inviting readers to engage with Gypsy culture through questions about language and music. Borrow then delves into the complexities and nuances of the Romany language, speaking to its rich but fragmented state, characterized by words from various languages and dialects. He discusses the origins of the Gypsy tongue, outlining the number of original Romany words in use today and the interesting grammatical features that set it apart from English. The author promises to elaborate on the vocabulary and poetry of the Romany people, emphasizing their unique linguistic heritage and the challenges of preserving their language in a predominantly English-speaking society.
The Bible in Spain Or, the Journeys, Adventures, and Imprisonments of an Englishman, in an Attempt to Circulate the Scriptures in the Peninsula
"The Bible in Spain" by George Borrow is a travel book published in 1843. It chronicles Borrow's adventurous journey through Spain as a Bible salesman during the turbulent Carlist Civil War of 1835-1838. Facing fierce opposition from the Catholic Church and authorities, he navigates dangerous terrain, encounters everyone from prime ministers to gypsies, opens an illegal bookshop, and lands briefly in prison. This vivid account blends evangelical mission with romantic adventure, offering intimate portraits of a diverse cast of Spaniards during a dramatic period in Spanish history.
The Bible in Spain, Vol. 2 [of 2] Or, the Journeys, Adventures, and Imprisonments of an Englishman in an Attempt to Circulate the Scriptures in the Peninsula
"The Bible in Spain, Vol. 2 [of 2]" by George Borrow is a travel book published in 1843. Borrow recounts his adventures as a Bible salesman traveling through Spain during the Carlist Civil War from 1835 to 1838. Facing opposition from the Catholic Church and authorities, he negotiates with prime ministers, distributes Spanish translations of the New Testament, opens an illegal bookshop, and encounters a vivid array of Spaniards—from beggars to Gypsies to crypto-Jews. His mission leads to imprisonment, illness, and eventual expulsion from Spain.
Wild Wales: Its People, Language and Scenery
"Wild Wales: Its People, Language and Scenery" by George Borrow is a travel book published in 1862. It recounts Borrow's solo walking tour through Wales in 1854, during which he explores the country's landscapes and meets its people. The author takes pride in his self-taught Welsh language skills, which surprise the locals he encounters. His journey spans from North Wales through remote villages and valleys to the industrial South Wales coalfields, offering insights into Welsh social and geographical history.
The Zincali: An Account of the Gypsies of Spain
"The Zincali: An Account of the Gypsies of Spain" by George Borrow is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. The text explores the complex lives and culture of the Gypsy people in Spain, highlighting their struggles, societal interactions, and unique traditions. Borrow’s extensive personal experience with the Gypsies informs his observations, as he aims to present a portrayal of the community based on firsthand encounters rather than theoretical assumptions. At the start of the book, Borrow introduces the topic through a preface that outlines the motivations behind his work, emphasizing his intention to document the real-life experiences of the Gypsies, referred to as Gitanos in Spain. He acknowledges the peculiar circumstances in which the book was written, primarily during his time in Spain while carrying out missionary work. The opening passages also hint at the author’s deep fascination with the Gypsy race and foreshadow a detailed exploration of their historical context, societal roles, and the varied perspectives of both Gypsies and Spaniards towards one another. Overall, Borrow's work promises to challenge common misconceptions about this enigmatic group while revealing the richness of their culture.
La Biblia en España, Tomo I (de 3) O viajes, aventuras y prisiones de un inglés en su intento de difundir las Escrituras por la Península
"La Biblia en España, Tomo I (de 3)" by George Borrow is a travel book published in 1843. It chronicles Borrow's adventures as a Bible salesman traversing Spain during the tumultuous Carlist Civil War from 1835 to 1838. Facing opposition from the Catholic Church and political authorities, he encounters prime ministers, beggars, Gypsies, and crypto-Jews while attempting to distribute Spanish translations of the New Testament. His journey includes imprisonment, illness, and colorful confrontations that reveal a Spain caught between tradition and change.
Letters of George Borrow to the British and Foreign Bible Society
"Letters of George Borrow to the British and Foreign Bible Society" by George Borrow is a collection of correspondences crafted in the early 19th century. This work illuminates Borrow's endeavors and experiences as he worked on translating biblical texts, particularly into the lesser-known languages of Mandchou and Tartar. The letters provide insight into his thoughts on linguistic challenges, cultural observations, and the socio-religious landscape of his time, demonstrating his passion for the dissemination of biblical texts across different cultures. The opening of this collection reveals Borrow's deep commitment to language and translation, as he shares his progress in acquiring the Mandchou language and critiques existing translations of biblical texts. Initially addressing Rev. J. Jowett, he expresses excitement over resources for learning Mandchou and discusses his desire to translate the Gospel into the language of the Gypsies. Through various letters, he details the practicalities of his mission, enlisting help from various individuals and navigating the complexities of language acquisition, all while maintaining a fervent dedication to his task of spreading the teachings of Christianity among diverse populations.
Lavengro: The Scholar, the Gypsy, the Priest
"Lavengro: The Scholar, the Gypsy, the Priest" by George Borrow is a work published in 1851 that blends memoir and novel. Following a protagonist named George from military barracks to London's underworld to life as a wandering tinker, the book offers vivid portraits of Romany travelers and English society's margins. Initially puzzling critics with its mixture of fact and fiction, this unconventional narrative later became a celebrated classic of nineteenth-century English literature, praised for its portrayal of eccentric characters and adventurous spirit.
The Romany Rye
"The Romany Rye" by George Borrow is a novel written in 1857 as a sequel to Lavengro. This philosophical adventure follows a learned young man living among the Romani people, encountering eccentric characters and exploring Gypsy customs. The protagonist acquires a horse from his Romani friend Jasper Petulengro and journeys to the Horncastle horse fair. The story concludes with a linguistic revelation about connections between Romani and Northern Indian languages, prompting dreams of distant travel.
Wild Wales: The People, Language, & Scenery
"Wild Wales: The People, Language, & Scenery" by George Borrow is a travel book published in 1862. It chronicles Borrow's solitary walking tour through Wales in 1854, documenting his encounters with Welsh people and their reactions to his self-taught Welsh language skills. The narrative follows his journey from North Wales through Mid Wales to the industrial South, offering a sympathetic Victorian-era portrait of Welsh society, geography, and culture through the eyes of an eccentric English traveler.
The Romany Rye A sequel to "Lavengro"
"The Romany Rye" by George Borrow is a novel written in 1857 as a sequel to "Lavengro." This philosophical adventure follows a learned young man living among the Romani people, encountering eccentric characters and documenting Romani customs along his journey. The protagonist acquires a valuable horse from his Romani friend Jasper Petulengro and travels to the Horncastle horse fair. The story culminates in a linguistic revelation about the Romani language's connection to Northern Indian languages, inspiring dreams of distant travel.
La Biblia en España, Tomo II (de 3) O viajes, aventuras y prisiones de un inglés en su intento de difundir las Escrituras por la Península
"La Biblia en España, Tomo II (de 3)" by George Borrow is a travel book published in 1843. It recounts Borrow's adventures as a Bible salesman traveling through Spain during the Carlist Civil War from 1835 to 1838. Facing opposition from the Catholic Church and authorities, he navigates encounters with prime ministers, Gypsies, crypto-Jews, and beggars while attempting to distribute Spanish New Testaments. His journey includes imprisonment, illness, and ultimately suppression of his mission, offering vivid portraits of Spanish society during a turbulent period.
La Biblia en España, Tomo III (de 3) O viajes, aventuras y prisiones de un inglés en su intento de difundir las Escrituras por la Península
"La Biblia en España, Tomo III (de 3)" by George Borrow is a travel book published in 1843. This volume recounts Borrow's adventurous journey through Spain as a Bible salesman during the turbulent Carlist Civil War of 1835-1838. Facing fierce opposition from the Catholic Church and political authorities, he navigates encounters with ministers, gypsies, beggars, and crypto-Jews while attempting to distribute Spanish translations of scripture. His mission leads to imprisonment, official suppression, and ultimately exile, capturing a vivid portrait of wild, romantic Spain.
Lavengro : $b The Scholar; The Gypsy; The Priest, Vol. 1 (of 2)
"Lavengro: The Scholar; The Gypsy; The Priest, Vol. 1 (of 2)" by George Borrow is a work published in 1851 that blends memoir and novel. The protagonist George, son of a militia officer, moves through barrack towns across Britain before becoming a lawyer's apprentice, then a London hack writer, and finally a wandering tinker. Throughout his journey, he encounters and befriends Romany travelers, offering sympathetic portraits of their lives. This autobiographical novel interweaves genuine memoir with fictional episodes, creating an unconventional narrative of nineteenth-century England's margins.
Lavengro: the Scholar - the Gypsy - the Priest
"Lavengro: the Scholar - the Gypsy - the Priest" by George Borrow is a work published in 1851 that blends memoir and novel. Following a protagonist named George from his childhood in military barrack towns through England, Scotland, and Ireland, the story traces his journey from lawyer's apprentice to London hack writer to wandering tinker. Along the way, he encounters Romany travelers who leave lasting impressions. The narrative continues directly in its sequel, "The Romany Rye," making both books essential companions in this unconventional autobiographical tale.
The Romany Rye A Sequel to 'Lavengro'
"The Romany Rye" by George Borrow is a novel written in 1857 as a sequel to "Lavengro." This partly autobiographical philosophical adventure follows a learned young man living among the Romanies. The story features encounters with eccentric characters and ethnographic observations of Romani customs. The protagonist acquires a valuable horse from his Romani friend Jasper Petulengro, sells it at the Horncastle horse fair, and discovers linguistic connections between the Romani and Northern Indian languages that inspire dreams of distant travels.
Isopel Berners The History of certain doings in a Staffordshire Dingle, July, 1825
"Isopel Berners" by George Borrow is a novel likely written in the mid-19th century. This book is an episode from Borrow's own autobiographical work "Lavengro," recounting his experiences in a Staffordshire dingle during July 1825. The narrative centers around Borrow's wanderings and his interactions with the titular character, Isopel Berners, a strong, spirited young woman from a working-class background who captivates the author, serving as both a romantic interest and a representation of raw strength and nobility. The opening of the novel sets the stage for Borrow's journey following his departure from London, where he seeks a life of vagrancy. As he journeys through the countryside, he buys a pony cart from a tinker and settles in a secluded dingle, where he establishes himself as a tinker and blacksmith. In this tranquil yet encumbered setting, Borrow encounters a variety of characters, including the formidable Isopel, showcasing her strength and independence. Their relationship develops amidst lively conversations with other local folk, setting the tone for themes of love, identity, and belonging that permeate the narrative. The opening lays the groundwork for a rich exploration of Borrow's character, his quest for solitude, and his unexpected connections with the vibrant life surrounding him.
The Welsh and Their Literature from The London Quarterly Review, January 1861, American Edition
"The Welsh and Their Literature" by George Borrow is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. This book explores the history, culture, and literature of the Welsh people, detailing their origins, societal structures, and various forms of poetic expression. Through a blend of historical narrative and literary analysis, it aims to present the rich tapestry of Welsh literature and its significance in the broader context of British history. In the book, Borrow delves into the historical migration of the Cymry (Welsh), their early notable figures like Hu Gadarn, who was pivotal in establishing agricultural civilization, and the impact of significant leaders such as King Prydain and Dyfnwal Moelmud on Welsh governance and law. He discusses the evolution of Welsh poetry and literature, highlighting the contributions of renowned bards like Taliesin and Dafydd ab Gwilym. The text also encompasses the influence of Christianity on Welsh culture and literature. Featuring sections on both ancient and modern Welsh prose and poetry, Borrow illustrates the depth of Welsh literary tradition, intertwined with moral teachings and reflections on human nature.
Targum Or Metrical Translations From Thirty Languages And Dialects
"Targum" by George Borrow is a collection of metrical translations from thirty languages and dialects written during the early 19th century. The work showcases Borrow's passion for languages and his translated pieces highlight the diverse poetic traditions found across various cultures. The book primarily focuses on themes of spirituality, nature, and human emotions, reflected in the selected poems and odes. In "Targum," Borrow offers readers an anthology of poems representing different cultures, ranging from Persian and Arabic to Finnish and Modern Greek. Each piece conveys distinct emotions and moral lessons, often centered around divine themes and human experiences. Throughout the collection, Borrow seeks to capture the essence of the original works while maintaining poetic beauty, embedding reflections on life, love, faith, and the natural world. This blend of folkloric tradition and personal insight creates a rich tapestry that invites readers to appreciate the universality of poetry beyond linguistic barriers.
Lavengro : $b The Scholar; The Gypsy; The Priest, Vol. 2 (of 2)
"Lavengro: The Scholar; The Gypsy; The Priest, Vol. 2 (of 2)" by George Borrow is a work published in 1851 that blends memoir and novel. It follows George, son of a militia officer, through barrack towns across Britain and Ireland. After apprenticing as a lawyer, he becomes a London hack writer, observing the city's underworld, then takes to the road as a tinker. Throughout his journey, he encounters Romany travellers, creating vivid portraits of their lives and culture in this unconventional nineteenth-century classic.
The mermaid's prophecy, and other songs relating to Queen Dagmar
"The Mermaid's Prophecy, and Other Songs Relating to Queen Dagmar" by George Borrow is a collection of poetic narratives written in the early 20th century. The book delves into the legends and folklore surrounding Queen Dagmar of Denmark, exploring themes of love, sacrifice, and the supernatural within a historical context. Borrow weaves these tales in a lyrical style, drawing on the rich tableau of medieval Scandinavian history. The collection features various songs that recount the romantic wooing of King Valdemar of Denmark and his beautiful bride Dagmar, as well as the haunting tale of a mermaid whose fate is intertwined with the royal family. In "King Valdemar's Wooing," the king sends an envoy to Bohemia to claim Dagmar's hand, leading to a series of courtly exchanges and celebrations. In contrast, "The Mermaid's Prophecy" tells of a mermaid trapped and compelled to reveal dark truths, shedding light on the tensions between desire and duty. Throughout the verses, we see Queen Dagmar portrayed as a compassionate ruler who strives to balance her love for her husband with her responsibilities to her people, ultimately making significant sacrifices in the name of love and duty.
Signelil, A Tale from the Cornish, and Other Ballads
"Signelil, A Tale from the Cornish, and Other Ballads" by George Borrow is a collection of ballads written in the early 20th century. The book features narrative poems that touch on themes of love, betrayal, morality, and social commentary, set against the backdrop of Cornish folklore. Borrow, a notable figure in 19th-century literature, explores the lives of ordinary people in a poetic form that reflects both their struggles and desires. The collection includes a key narrative about a young lady, her noble suitor, and her handmaid, illustrating the tension between social status and personal connection. Another tale follows John, a hardworking man, as he navigates the challenges of life away from home, including encounters with thieves and a risky return. Ultimately, John’s wisdom and honesty prevail, leading to a resolution filled with hope and a reconciliation with his wife. Through these stories, Borrow captures the essence of human experience, weaving folklore with moral lessons and highlighting the complexities of relationships in everyday life.
Letters to his wife Mary Borrow
"Letters to his wife Mary Borrow" by George Borrow is a collection of correspondence written during the mid-19th century. This collection captures the personal thoughts and experiences of Borrow as he travels across various European destinations, including Italy and Scotland, reflecting on his adventures and expressing his longing for his wife and family. The letters reveal not only Borrow’s travels but also his feelings about the world around him and the people he encounters. In this compilation, Borrow narrates his journeys across picturesque landscapes and historical locations, detailing the challenges he faces, such as illness and harsh weather. His letters provide insights into his emotional state, revealing a man deeply connected to his home and family, while also curious and adventurous in spirit. He shares vivid descriptions of places like Venice and the Scottish Highlands and often reflects on cultural aspects he encounters. Interspersed with practical requests, such as for finances or updates about home, these letters also convey warmth, affection, and a sense of longing for his family, particularly highlighting the significance of their relationship amidst his travels.