Subject
Wales -- Description and travel Books
Best books
James John Hissey
A Leisurely Tour in England
"A Leisurely Tour in England" by James John Hissey is a travel narrative written in the early 20th century. This work captures the essence of leisurely exploration of rural England, reflecting on the beauty of the countryside, quaint villages, and historical sites. The author embarks on a nostalgic journey, detailing his encounters as he traverses the backroads of England in his motor-car, which serves as a means to enjoy the picturesque landscapes without haste. The opening of the narrative sets the tone for an exploration grounded in a leisurely pace, emphasizing the joys of taking one's time to appreciate the surroundings. Hissey shares his musings on different travel methods and the charm of motoring through England's less-traveled paths. This section introduces us to some beautiful landscapes, such as the rolling South Downs, and quaint villages like West Dean, where he encounters a peaceful farmstead and a yoke of oxen. The writer's reflections convey a deep appreciation for the unspoiled beauty of the countryside and the importance of savoring the journey rather than rushing through it, hinting at the delightful discoveries that await those who choose to explore with a mind open to unexpected encounters.
George Borrow
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.
Cambrensis Giraldus
The Description of Wales
"The Description of Wales" by Giraldus Cambrensis is a geographical and ethnographic treatise written in 1193 or 1194. This two-part work examines the Welsh people through contrasting lenses: their virtues and their faults. Gerald, a churchman of mixed Norman-Welsh ancestry, chronicles Wales's geography, military tactics, cultural practices, and social customs. He offers strategic advice for conquering Wales while simultaneously counseling the Welsh on resistance. The treatise captures a medieval perspective on Welsh identity, blending observation, historical analysis, and pointed cultural commentary about a nation's character and future.
George Borrow
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.
Edward Thomas
Beautiful Wales
"Beautiful Wales" by Edward Thomas is a descriptive travelogue written in the early 20th century. The work reflects Thomas’s personal impressions of Wales, intertwining themes of nature, culture, and the complexities of Welsh identity through his observations and experiences. As he navigates through various landscapes and encounters locals, his writing evokes the beauty and depth of Wales, capturing its scenery and spirit. The beginning of "Beautiful Wales" sets the stage for an exploration of the author's relationship with the country and its people. Thomas thoughtfully examines various perspectives on Wales, revealing a mosaic of opinions from travelers, authors, and locals alike. He critiques their sometimes naive or superficial interpretations while emphasizing his own unique connection to the land, rich with personal impressions. The chapter introduces themes of nostalgia and identity, showcasing tantalizing glimpses into the Welsh landscape, alongside anecdotes about its culture and language. Through vivid imagery and introspective musings, Thomas establishes a deep appreciation for the complexities of Wales, making the reader eager to join him on his journey.
Rodolph Stawell
Motor Tours in Wales & the Border Counties
"Motor Tours in Wales & the Border Counties" by Mrs. Rodolph Stawell is a travel guide written in the early 20th century. The book offers detailed descriptions and routes for motor tours through the scenic landscapes and historic sites of Wales and the surrounding border counties. It is likely aimed at those seeking to explore the beauty and history of these regions, with rich narratives that evoke both adventure and nostalgia. At the start of the book, the author sets the tone for the journey by reflecting on the joy of travel and the excitement of exploration. Drawing inspiration from the musings of a whimsical tramp, she emphasizes the thrill of the open road, capturing the beauty of landscapes, villages, and the stories hidden within them. The opening portion provides a vivid description of Shropshire, detailing places of historical significance, including Ludlow and its castle, while hinting at the charming experiences waiting for travelers as they meander through the rich tapestry of England's picturesque countryside. Stawell mixes personal reflections with historical anecdotes, creating a warm invitation to adventure for those taking to the motorways of Wales.
Unknown
Gallant Little Wales: Sketches of its people, places and customs
"Gallant Little Wales: Sketches of its People, Places, and Customs" by Jeannette Marks is a travelogue written in the early 20th century. The work offers an in-depth exploration of North Wales, delving into its landscapes, historical sites, and the rich tapestry of its culture and customs. Through vivid descriptions and personal anecdotes, Marks aims to capture the essence of Wales, inviting readers to appreciate its beauty and uniqueness. The opening of "Gallant Little Wales" presents a heartfelt invitation to discover the enchanting landscapes of Wales, particularly the profound connection between its historical past and present culture. Marks shares her appreciation for the simplicity and beauty of the Welsh countryside, describing picturesque villages, ancient churches, and the haunting melodies that fill the air. She recounts personal experiences interacting with locals, emphasizing the challenges of grappling with the Welsh language while highlighting the warmth and charm of its people. This introductory portion not only sets the tone for a journey through the enchanting realms of Welsh heritage but also expresses Marks' deep affection for the land she writes about.
Anatole Le Braz
La terre du passé
"La terre du passé" by Anatole Le Braz is a collection of literary essays and reflections written in the late 19th century. The book delves into the cultural and historical significance of Brittany, exploring its myths, legends, and the remnants of its religious practices through evocative narratives and character-driven storytelling. The central character seems to be both the land itself and the people, particularly in their connection to tradition and the past. The opening of the work introduces a solitary landscape dotted with ancient roads, once bustling with the movement of pilgrims during the meaningful "Trô-Breiz" pilgrimage. The narrator encounters Roparz, an aged cordier, who recounts tales of this historic pilgrimage, which was once adorned with grand processions to visit the seven patron saints of Brittany. Their conversations evoke a rich sense of nostalgia for times when faith and tradition were deeply woven into the fabric of local life, contrasting with the present desolateness of the once-vibrant routes now largely abandoned. The narrative promises a blend of personal stories interwoven with collective history, setting the stage for further explorations of the intertwined fates of the land and its people.
E. M. (Ethel Mary) Wilmot-Buxton
Peeps at many lands: Wales
"Peeps at Many Lands: Wales" by E. M. Wilmot-Buxton is a travelogue written in the early 20th century. This work offers readers a glimpse into the rich history, culture, and landscapes of Wales, blending modern industry with ancient legends and romantic tales. The author takes the reader through lesser-known locales, showcasing the allure of Wales beyond the typical tourist paths. The opening of the book introduces readers to the enchanting nature of Wales, emphasizing its duality as a region steeped in history while simultaneously engaging in modern industries like coal-mining and slate-quarrying. The author begins with a Welsh legend about the witch Caridwen and the magical cauldron of knowledge, drawing parallels between this myth and the rich tapestry of Welsh identity. The reader is invited to explore various places, such as the rugged landscapes of Snowdon and the historical struggles for independence, as depicted through the tales of figures like Llewelyn and Owen Glendower. Overall, the introduction sets the tone for a journey through a land shaped by its past, imbued with stories and steeped in a captivating spirit.
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