Subject
Crime -- Great Britain Books
Best books
Camden Pelham
The Chronicles of Crime or The New Newgate Calendar. v. 2/2 being a series of memoirs and anecdotes of notorious characters who have outraged the laws of Great Britain from the earliest period to 1841
"The Chronicles of Crime; or, The New Newgate Calendar" by Camden Pelham is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This volume presents a series of memoirs and anecdotes detailing notorious criminals who have broken the laws of Great Britain up until 1841, encompassing a range of offenses from murder to forgery and piracy. The book showcases various criminals and their crimes, providing insight into the darker aspects of society during this period. The opening of the work introduces the reader to a collection of case studies, highlighting the gruesome realities of crime and punishment in early 19th-century Britain. It begins with the accounts of several individuals convicted of serious crimes, such as coining and conspiracy. For example, the event surrounding the 1816 trial of Thomas Brock and others reveals the corruption within the police system, where informants would entrap innocents to profit from convictions. This narrative approach sets a somber tone, making it clear that the volume aims to explore complex moral questions related to justice, legality, and the human condition in the context of crime.
Charles G. (Charles George) Harper
Half-hours with the Highwaymen - Vol 1 Picturesque Biographies and Traditions of the "Knights of the Road"
"Half-Hours with the Highwaymen - Vol 1" by Charles G. Harper is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This work explores the fascinating yet grim world of highwaymen in England, tracing their evolution from romanticized outlaws to the more sordid figures of their decline. Harper aims to unveil the true nature of these "Knights of the Road" by sifting through historical accounts and myths, providing an engaging narrative about their lives and crimes. At the start of the book, the author sets the stage for a detailed examination of highwaymen throughout history, highlighting their depiction in folklore and the romanticized views that have persisted over time. He reflects on the transformation of these figures, noting how they varied from noble outlaws like Robin Hood to common criminals known for their brutality and cowardice. As Harper discusses early accounts, including exaggerated biographies, the reader is introduced to the complex interplay of fact and fiction that characterizes highwayman legends, setting the tone for a thorough exploration of their intriguing yet tragic history in subsequent chapters.
Basil Thomson
Queer people
Garden City, N.Y. edition (Doubleday, Page & company) has title: My experiences at Scotland Yard.
Camden Pelham
The Chronicles of Crime or The New Newgate Calendar. v. 1/2 being a series of memoirs and anecdotes of notorious characters who have outraged the laws of Great Britain from the earliest period to 1841.
"The Chronicles of Crime; or, The New Newgate Calendar" by Camden Pelham is a historical account written in the early 19th century. The work aggregates detailed memoirs and anecdotes of notorious criminals who have violated the laws of Great Britain, covering a wide range of offenses from murder to piracy. This collection serves both as a grim reflection on the consequences of crime and a commentary on social morality. At the start of the text, the author introduces the overarching theme of crime and punishment through a series of narratives focused on infamous characters from British history. The opening portion presents the case of Thomas Hunter, a clergyman executed for the gruesome murder of his two pupils, which sets a dramatic tone for the accounts to follow. It outlines Hunter's descent from a respected teacher to a figure of infamy motivated by revenge against the children who discovered his illicit affair. The narrative warns of the dangers of temptation and the inevitable repercussions of guilt, establishing a moral framework that is to be explored throughout the volume.
Alfred Marks
Tyburn Tree: Its History and Annals
"Tyburn Tree: Its History and Annals" by Alfred Marks is a historical account likely written in the late 19th century. The work delves into the grim history and circumstances surrounding the executions that took place at Tyburn, exploring the social, legal, and cultural dimensions of capital punishment in England. Marks vividly portrays the procession to Tyburn, echoing the suffering of the condemned and the societal attitudes towards justice and punishment. The opening of the book provides a haunting introduction to the narratives of the many individuals who met their fate at Tyburn—a place where an estimated fifty thousand souls were executed over centuries. Marks describes the journey of these individuals, ranging from noblemen to common thieves, depicting the harrowing experiences they faced, including being dragged or led to the gallows. He references various historical and literary sources to underline the spectacle of these public executions and comment on the historical context of crime and punishment, hinting at a broader discourse on the ramifications of state power and the evolution of societal values concerning justice.
Unknown
Lives of the Most Remarkable Criminals Who have been Condemned and Executed for Murder, the Highway, Housebreaking, Street Robberies, Coining or other offences
"Lives of the Most Remarkable Criminals Who have been Condemned and Executed for…" edited by Arthur L. Hayward is a historical account written in the early 18th century. The work documents the lives of various criminals who faced execution for serious offenses such as murder, theft, and coining. The narrative not only presents their grim fates but also reflects on the social conditions and moral lessons intended to deter readers from a life of crime. The opening of this work sets the tone for a deep exploration of crime and punishment in early modern England, particularly focusing on the notorious site of Tyburn where many were executed. It recounts the traditions surrounding public executions, the attitudes of onlookers, and the brutal realities faced by the condemned, chronicling their final moments and the societal implications of their crimes. Noteworthy figures introduced include Jane Griffin, who was executed for the murder of her maid, and John Trippuck, a highwayman. Each narrative delves into the circumstances leading to their downfall, bringing a mix of tragedy and moral caution that highlights the often turbulent intersection of personal choices and stringent laws in a bygone era.
Charles G. (Charles George) Harper
Half-hours with the Highwaymen - Vol 2 Picturesque Biographies and Traditions of the "Knights of the Road"
"Half-hours with the Highwaymen - Vol 2" by Charles G. Harper is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This work explores the lives and exploits of notorious highwaymen from the past, presenting them as complex characters who often navigated the lines between heroism and criminality. The text delves into the legends surrounding figures like John Nevison, providing insights into their adventures on the roads of England. The opening of the volume introduces John Nevison, famously dubbed "Swift Nicks," who challenges the traditional narratives that often overshadow his accomplishments with the tales of Dick Turpin. As the narrative unfolds, it recounts Nevison’s daring exploits, including a remarkable ride from Gad's Hill to York undertaken to establish an alibi after a robbery. His character is portrayed as charismatic yet morally ambiguous, navigating the complexities of being a highwayman with moments of unexpected honor, such as returning stolen money to victims. Thus, the beginning sets a tone that invites readers to reconsider the legends of highwaymen within a broader cultural and historical context.
Thomas Holmes
Psychology and Crime
"Psychology and Crime" by Thomas Holmes is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. The work explores the intricate relationship between psychological conditions and criminal behavior, seeking to shed light on the often-overlooked mental and physical afflictions affecting individuals within the prison population. The author, drawing on his extensive experience with London's criminal courts and prisoners, aims to advocate for more humane and understanding treatment of those who are deemed criminals. At the start of the book, Holmes presents a preface that emphasizes the urgent need for the public and authorities to recognize the underlying mental and physical health issues among prisoners. He explains that despite ongoing reports by prison officials noting these afflictions' significant role in criminal behavior, little meaningful action has been taken to reform the treatment methods for affected individuals. He criticizes the existing penal system and expresses his passionate hope for reforms that consider the broader mental health challenges that contribute to criminal behavior, laying the groundwork for the themes that will unfold in the subsequent chapters.
Bernard Mandeville
An Enquiry into the Causes of the Frequent Executions at Tyburn (1725)
"An Enquiry into the Causes of the Frequent Executions at Tyburn" by Bernard Mandeville is a critical pamphlet written in the early 18th century. It explores the social and legal implications surrounding the high rate of executions in London, particularly at Tyburn, questioning the effectiveness of these harsh penalties as a deterrent to crime. The work critiques not only the execution process itself but also the societal attitudes towards criminals and the flawed legal practices that facilitate crime and punishment. At the start of the treatise, Mandeville expresses his concern about the high number of executions due to theft and lesser crimes, lamenting that many condemned individuals face death for trivial offenses. He attributes this to systemic issues, such as "Theftbote," the practice of not prosecuting thieves, which he argues encourages criminal behavior. The opening introduces vivid scenes associated with execution day, detailing the infamous procession to Tyburn and the behavior of both the condemned and the spectators, indicating a shared societal indifference to the suffering of criminals. Mandeville's initial chapters establish a robust framework for discussions on potential reforms to criminal justice practices, aiming to provoke thought and action on an issue that affects society at large.
James Devon
The Criminal & the Community
"The Criminal & the Community" by James Devon is a non-fiction work written in the early 20th century. It delves into the complex relationship between crime and societal factors, exploring the causes of criminal behavior and advocating for more humane approaches to criminal treatment. Overall, the book emphasizes that the treatment of criminals is primarily a social issue rather than strictly a medical one. The opening of the volume sets the stage for an informed discussion on the need for reform in the way society addresses crime and punishment. Devon argues that the current system inadequately serves both offenders and society, as it fails to account for the unique circumstances surrounding each individual case. He highlights how societal conditions, such as poverty and lack of support, contribute significantly to criminality while asserting that a deeper understanding of social interdependence is essential for meaningful reforms. This introduction shapes a critical exploration of the themes and findings that will follow in the subsequent chapters.
Recently surfaced classics