Author
Dion Clayton Calthrop
1878-1937
Dion Clayton Calthrop (1878-1937) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
Subjects
Books by Dion Clayton Calthrop
English Costume
"English Costume" by Dion Clayton Calthrop is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The work provides an in-depth examination of the evolution of civilian clothing in England, beginning from the time of the Norman Conquest through various historical periods. Focusing on how clothing reflects societal changes and individual identity, it meticulously traces the transition of styles, materials, and cultural influences over time. The opening of "English Costume" sets the stage for a comprehensive exploration of fashion history, with the author emphasizing the integral role clothing plays in shaping a person's identity and reflecting social norms and values. Calthrop introduces the idea that fashion is intertwined with significant historical figures and events, illustrating this connection through anecdotes about notable garments from various reigns. He establishes an organized historical timeline, pairing illustrations with textual descriptions that detail the changes in men’s and women’s attire from the Norman Conquest (1066) onwards, all while asserting the importance of understanding the clothes of one's own people to fully grasp their history. The opening effectively frames the book as a unique resource that links fashion to historical narratives in a way that is both accessible and engaging.
The Charm of Gardens
"The Charm of Gardens" by Dion Clayton Calthrop is a reflective narrative on the beauty and significance of gardens, likely written in the early 20th century. The work explores the emotional and nostalgic ties people share with gardens and flowers, illustrating how they evoke memories and foster a sense of peace and connection to nature. The opening of the narrative presents a vivid description of the author's longing for the countryside and the rejuvenating power of flowers. The writer recalls a moment when the scent of Primroses brought back memories of his youth, depicting how different flowers symbolize various experiences and emotions from his life. He delves into the philosophy of gardening, expressing how tending to a garden represents more than mere cultivation—it's a way to celebrate life's seasons and weave together memories, nature, and identity.
The Harlequinade: An Excursion
"The Harlequinade: An Excursion" by Dion Clayton Calthrop and Harley Granville-Barker is a whimsical and creative theatre piece composed in the early 20th century, specifically around the time of World War I. It's a unique hybrid that defies traditional categorization, existing somewhere between a play, a performance script, and an artistic exploration of Harlequin and his companions. The book delves into the themes of love, the essence of theatre, and the transformation of gods into actors, framed through a playful narrative delivered by a young girl named Alice and her uncle. The story follows Alice as she introduces various characters from the Harlequinade, such as Harlequin, Columbine, Clown, and Pantaloon, who represent souls navigating the challenges of love and life. Through Alice's lively storytelling and her uncle's grounding presence, the narrative explores the journey of these characters as they encounter themes of desire, disappointment, and the pursuit of joy amid a changing world. Not only does it entertain with playful dialogue and humorous antics, but it also reflects on the significance of art, love, and identity across various epochs. The text oscillates between different theatrical styles, ultimately emphasizing the timeless relevance of humor and human connection in the face of adversity.
The Pirate's Pocket Book
"The Pirate's Pocket Book" by Dion Clayton Calthrop is a whimsical children's story written in the early 20th century. This lighthearted tale revolves around the adventures of a notorious pirate named Captain Thomas Tomb and his young companion, Dingy David. The narrative is characterized by its playful language and imaginative settings, suggesting themes of adventure, friendship, and the hilarity of pirate life. In the story, Captain Tomb lives a life of flamboyant mischief aboard his ship, the "Inky Murk", alongside Dingy David. The tale unfolds as Tomb captures David while he is stealing flowers, ultimately inducting him into pirate life. As their escapades continue, they plunder various imaginary locales, but eventually retire to Tomb's tranquil island home, leading to a comedic turn involving the search for a charwoman to tidy their dusty abode. The narrative humorously reveals Tomb's unexpected familial ties, including his long-lost daughter, Ermyntrude, and the miraculous connections among their lives, creating an uplifting and entertaining conclusion to their absurd adventures.