Author
Laurence Oliphant
1829-1888
Laurence Oliphant (1829-1888) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Laurence Oliphant
Haifa; or, Life in modern Palestine
"Haifa; or, Life in Modern Palestine" by Laurence Oliphant is a collection of travel letters and observations written in the late 19th century. The work provides a vivid account of the social, cultural, and archaeological landscape of Palestine during a time of significant change, particularly through the eyes of a Western observer. The author draws upon his experiences living in the region, blending personal anecdotes with historical and archaeological insights about cities and communities he encounters. The opening portion of the text introduces the background and motivations for Oliphant's exploration of Palestine, setting the stage for a journey that intertwines history with modern life. He reflects on the profound Biblical significance of the land and contrasts the impressions of visitors with those of residents, indicating the depth of his research. Additionally, he outlines the various explorations and findings related to significant archaeological sites, emphasizing the area’s rich history and ongoing discoveries. Through descriptive prose, he brings to life the landscape, its ruins, and introduces his encounters with local cultures, inviting readers to consider the complex tapestry of modern and ancient existence in Palestine.
A Journey to Katmandu (the Capital of Napaul), with the Camp of Jung Bahadoor Including a Sketch of the Nepaulese Ambassador at Home
"A Journey to Katmandu (the Capital of Nepaul), with the Camp of Jung Bahadoor" by Laurence Oliphant is a travel narrative written in the mid-19th century. This book chronicles the author's adventures accompanying the Nepaulese ambassador, Jung Bahadoor, on a journey through Nepal and provides insights into the culture, geography, and political climate of the region during that era. The narrative is likely to appeal to readers interested in historical travel accounts and explorations of the lesser-known territories of the British Empire. At the start of the journey, the reader is introduced to Jung Bahadoor, who arrives in Ceylon as the Nepaulese ambassador and bears a letter from the Queen of England. The narrative offers a vivid description of his arrival and the author's subsequent invitation to accompany him to Katmandu. The opening portion depicts the pomp of the ambassador's presence, the author's reflections on his luxurious lifestyle, and their travels through India, including stops in Colombo, Calcutta, and Benares. As they navigate these locales, the author highlights the contrasts between Western civilization and the semi-barbarous nature of Nepali society, setting the stage for a richly detailed account of their journey into the Himalayan kingdom.
Fashionable Philosophy, and Other Sketches
"Fashionable Philosophy and Other Sketches" by Laurence Oliphant is a collection of philosophical and satirical essays written in the late 19th century. The opening sketches introduce a gathering in a London drawing room, where fashionable society members engage in discussions about the future of religion and philosophical ideas. Through witty dialogues and character interactions, Oliphant critiques contemporary beliefs, highlighting the absurdities of those seeking a new moral framework while disregarding the depth of existing traditions. The beginning of the work showcases Lady Fritterly's tea gathering, featuring various eccentric guests who discuss the future of religion and morality, with characters like Mr. Germsell, a proponent of scientific approaches to religious thought, and Mr. Rollestone, who advocates for a more profound moral exploration. As conversations unfold, humor and irony permeate their debates about esoteric Buddhism and the role of personal experience in shaping beliefs, reflecting Oliphant's critical perspective on the frivolities of fashionable intellectualism and the search for meaning in an evolving society. This engaging narrative sets the tone for the rest of the collection, blending humor with insightful commentary on human nature and social dynamics.
Piccadilly: A Fragment of Contemporary Biography
"Piccadilly: A Fragment of Contemporary Biography" by Laurence Oliphant is a fictional narrative written during the late 19th century. It presents a satirical look at contemporary society, exploring themes of love, social conventions, and moral dilemmas through the eyes of its protagonist, Frank Vanecourt. The story engages the reader in a comedic yet critical examination of civilization as experienced in the bustling streets of Piccadilly and the lives of its fashionable inhabitants. The opening of the narrative introduces us to Frank Vanecourt, who has recently moved into a first-floor apartment with a view of Green Park. He is accompanied by his friend, Lord Grandon, who lives upstairs. Frank laments the state of civilization and contemplates writing a history of the world after experiencing it firsthand. He encounters various characters, including Lady Veriphast, who humorously encourages him to write about his personal experiences rather than a grand biography. As the evening progresses, Frank reflects on his intention to expose the follies and conventionalism of society through his writing, yet he is distracted by thoughts of love and the complexities of interpersonal relationships, setting the stage for the social commentary and personal explorations to come.