Author
Thomas Bulfinch
1796-1867
Thomas Bulfinch (1796-1867) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Thomas Bulfinch
Bulfinch's Mythology
"Bulfinch's Mythology" by Thomas Bulfinch is a collection published in 1867 that retells myths and legends for general readers. Drawing primarily from Greek and Roman mythology, Arthurian tales, and medieval romances, Bulfinch rewrote classical stories in accessible prose, removing explicit content while adding quotations from contemporary poets. His innovative approach connected ancient mythology to nineteenth-century literature, helping English-speaking audiences without classical language training understand the countless mythological references in their culture. The work became America's standard mythology text for nearly a century.
Bulfinch's Mythology The Age of Fable; The Age of Chivalry; Legends of Charlemagne
"Bulfinch's Mythology" by Thomas Bulfinch is a collection published in 1867 that retells myths and legends for general readers. Originally three separate volumes, the work presents Greek and Roman mythology, Arthurian legends, and medieval romances in accessible prose. Bulfinch removes classical languages as barriers to understanding, weaving ancient tales with quotations from contemporary poets to help nineteenth-century English readers comprehend literary allusions. His approach transforms classical education into pleasurable learning, making timeless stories meaningful for modern audiences without formal training in Latin or Greek.
Bulfinch's Mythology: The Age of Fable
"Bulfinch's Mythology: The Age of Fable" by Thomas Bulfinch is a collection published in 1867. This work retells classical myths, Arthurian legends, and medieval romances for English-speaking readers without knowledge of Latin or Greek. Bulfinch weaves together ancient tales with quotations from contemporary poets, creating a bridge between distant mythology and nineteenth-century literature. His accessible retellings—drawn primarily from Ovid but adapted to Victorian sensibilities—dominated American classical education for nearly a century, helping general readers comprehend the mythological references pervading English literature and polite conversation.
The Age of Chivalry
"The Age of Chivalry" by Thomas Bulfinch is a historical account that was likely written in the late 19th century. The work examines the legendary and historical figures of the medieval era, specifically focusing on the myths and stories surrounding King Arthur, his knights, and the concept of chivalry. It serves as a compilation of tales that illuminate the ideals of bravery, loyalty, and honor that characterized the knightly tradition, showcasing figures like Arthur and his companions alongside commentary on the evolution of these legends. The opening of "The Age of Chivalry" sets the stage by delving into the context of the medieval period, detailing the decline of Roman rule and the rise of chivalric ideals. It introduces key themes such as the nature of knighthood and the societal structure of the time, including the training of knights and the importance of chivalry as a moral code. The text begins with a description of the turbulent environment post-Rome and frames the ideals of chivalry as a response to the lawlessness of the age, ultimately leading to the legendary tales of King Arthur. The discussion of significant characters like Merlin, and the portrayal of Arthur as he rises to power, establishes a foundation for the exploration of stories that blend history and myth throughout the book.
The Age of Fable
"The Age of Fable" by Thomas Bulfinch is a collection of mythological tales published in 1855. This groundbreaking work retold Greek and Roman myths for English-speaking readers who lacked classical language training. Bulfinch combined ancient stories with quotations from contemporary poets, creating a bridge between classical learning and modern literature. His accessible prose invited middle-class readers into worlds of gods, heroes, and legendary adventures, making classical mythology comprehensible without requiring knowledge of Latin or Greek.
Legends of Charlemagne
"Legends of Charlemagne" by Thomas Bulfinch is a collection of medieval tales exploring the romantic adventures and heroic exploits of Charlemagne and his peers, written in the 19th century. The work draws upon various sources of myth, fable, and chivalric tradition, focusing on key characters such as Charlemagne, Orlando (Roland), Rinaldo, and Astolpho, who engage in battles, quests, and romantic exploits that are central to the legends surrounding the legendary king and his knights. The opening of "Legends of Charlemagne" presents an extensive introduction that sets the stage for the intertwining narratives of the saga. It provides historical context about Charlemagne's reign, the cultural landmarks of the era, and the legendary figures associated with him. We learn about Charlemagne's lineage, his military exploits, and the perilous adventures posed by the Saracens. The text hints at upcoming tales of valor, love, and mischief, featuring notable characters like the valiant Orlando and the wily Rinaldo. This initial part not only prepares the reader for the various narratives to follow but also emphasizes the importance of understanding these legends in relation to literature and culture, suggesting that familiarity with these stories is essential to appreciating many literary references throughout history.
Oregon and Eldorado; or, Romance of the Rivers
"Oregon and Eldorado; or, Romance of the Rivers" by Thomas Bulfinch is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. The book explores the significant water routes of North and South America, focusing on the Missouri and Columbia Rivers in the north and the Amazon River in the south. Through these narratives, it covers the adventures and discoveries associated with these regions, including the significant historical expeditions and their implications for American expansion and commerce. The opening of the narrative begins with a discussion among prominent Bostonians in the late 18th century regarding the voyages of Captain Cook and the commercial potential of the Pacific Northwest, particularly the fur trade. This conversation leads to the establishment of an expedition that ultimately discovers the Columbia River, revealing the competitive landscape of exploration at that time. Key figures like Captains Robert Gray and John Kendrick are introduced, along with the challenges they face in their journeys, including conflicts with Native Americans and the harsh conditions of exploration. Overall, the beginning sets the stage for an engaging account of exploration and adventure in America's early history, illuminating the dreams and ambitions of those who sought to unveil its frontiers.