Saturday Review
Published 1855-1938. Unsigned, but some contributors have been identified by M.M. Bevington in The Saturday Review (Columbia University Press, 1941) and more by Gary Simons in The Curran Index (http://www.curranindex.org/ ). Weekly; 6d. This midcentury publication found a place between established quarterlies and monthly magazines. Included leading articles, ‘middles’ (on general subjects) and substantial book reviews. ‘The robust, at times rambunctious nature of its prejudices and reviews led to its nickname, the Saturday Reviler.’ (See DNCJ, where all quotations appear, for further information and references to additional sources.)
Watson, Christopher Knight.“Spanish Conquest in America.” Saturday Review, 1, no. 6: (21 July 1855): 700–702.
First notice of Arthur Helps’s book (2 vol, J. W. Parker) providing lengthy excerpts. Attribution Curran Index.
Venables, Georg Stovin.“History of France in the Sixteenth Century.” Saturday Review, 1, no. 4: (24 November 1855): 65–67.
Michelet is praised for being a skillful and brilliant narrator but criticized for his ‘bold discretion in the selection of facts.’ Overall, this French-language edition is ‘well worth reading.’ Attribution Curran Index.
Donne, William Bodham.“Reign of Philip the Second of Spain.” Saturday Review, 1, no. 4: (24 November 1855): 68–69.
Reviewer claims William H. Prescott’s work is a substantial addition to the history of the era as it is well-researched and well-written.
Stephen, James Fitzjames.“Political History of the United States.” Saturday Review, 1, no. 6: (8 December 1855): 101–2.
Edouard Laboulaye’s 1855 book is discussed in terms of how democracy is possible; reviewer says it presents a clear and spirited style and a valuable arrangement. Attribution Curran Index.
Mansfield, Robert Blachford.“The French Revolution.” Saturday Review, 1, no. 6: (8 December 1855): 98–99.
Review of Louis Blanc’s 7th volume discusses past historians’ work on the revolution (Lactretelle, Thiers, Barante, Michelet) and then discusses the content of this book, which spans from 1792 to the trial of the king. Attribution Curran Index.
Freeman, E. A.“Gallenga’s History of Piedmont.” Saturday Review, 1, no. 7: (15 December 1855): 120–21.
States that Antonio Gallenga’s narrative is graphic, is written in a “violent anti-ecclesiastical spirit” and that the author should have focused on the history of the house of Savoy and not extended his researches to Rome and Gaul. Book published by Chapman & Hall. Attribution Curran Index.
Donne, William Bodham.“History of Rome.” Saturday Review, 1, no. 7: (15 December 1855): 116–17.
States that Henry G. Liddell’s book (2 vol, Murray) is for general readers, that it is well arranged, and that it shows much diligence and scholarship. Would also be useful a reference book for students cramming for examinations. Attribution Curran Index.
Venables, Georg Stovin.“Thiers on History.” Saturday Review, 1, no. 7: (15 December 1855): 115–16.
The occasion is volume 12 of Thiers’s The Consulate and the Empire. Article focuses on the perceived role of historians, stating that they must be intelligent and content to efface themselves in their work; historians are, in essence, artists. Attribution Curran Index.
Stephen, James Fitzjames.“Sir Archibald Alison.” Saturday Review, 1, no. 8: (22 December 1855): 137–39.
States that the style of Alison’s History of Europe 1789-1815 (9th edition in 11 volumes, published by Blackwood) is the result of the fundamental fault of his history. Although the work is honest, impartial, and truthful, it is also hasty, inaccurate and illogical. Refers to the railway edition of this work, and to Alison rivalling Dickens in popularity. Attribution Curran Index.
Venables, Georg Stovin.“Macaulay’s History of England.” Saturday Review, 1, no. 9: (29 December 1855): 156–57.
First of three parts. ‘The age of the Revolution has at last found its Homer’. Notes that some might feel it covers too short a period (9 years) and Macaulay only considered and used facts that were most effective and suited to his argument. However, the work is beautifully written, clear, pointed, and decided. Attribution Curran Index.
Harcourt, William George Granville Venables.“JOURNALISM v. HISTORY.” Saturday Review, 1, no. 10: (5 January 1856): 168–69.
Discusses how recent accounts of conflicts, by writers in The Times, should contain more historical accuracy. Attribution Curran Index.
Venables, Georg Stovin.“Macaulay’s History of England.” Saturday Review, 1, no. 10: (5 January 1856): 173–74.
Second notice discusses the content which focuses on James and on William and Mary. Attribution Curran Index.
Stephen, James Fitzjames.“Pious Frauds.” Saturday Review, 1, no. 10: (5 January 1856): 174–76.
Criticizes three books by Stephen Watson Fullom for their inaccuracy and far-fetched arguments. History of Women is ‘an insult to the sex’. Attribution Curran Index.
“Jeanne D’Albret, Queen of Navarre.” Saturday Review, 1, no. 11: (12 January 1856): 196–97.
Readable biography by Martha Walker Froer (2 vol, 1855) is an ‘acceptable supplement to the annals of one of the most important periods of the ancient French monarchy.’
Venables, Edmond.“Macaulay’s History of England.” Saturday Review, 1, no. 11: (12 January 1856): 191–92.
Conclusion of a three-part ‘notice’ remains enthusiastic; because of his style, Macaulay has taught people who would never have read history before to enjoy it. Attribution Curran Index.
“Keightley’s Life of Milton.” Saturday Review, 1, no. 12: (19 January 1856): 211.
Thomas Keightley’s book (Chapman & Hall, 1855) is a well-judged and valuable contribution to readers’ acquaintance with Milton.
Watson, Christopher Knight.“Spanish Conquest in America. Vols 1 & 2.” Saturday Review, 1, no. 12: (19 January 1856): 215–16.
Arthur Helps’s book (published by J. W. Parker) reveals the evils of the Spanish conquest; he searches within the events to uncover the origin of the problems. Contains good maps and illustrations which help readers. Attribution Curran Index.
Stephen, James Fitzjames.“WOODS v. RUSSELL.” Saturday Review, 1, no. 12: (19 January 1856): 212–14.
Sarcastically characterizes Crimea journalists N. A. Woods (History of the Late Campaign, Longman 1855) and W. H. R. Russell (History of the War, Routledge 1855) as ‘great historians’’. States that Woods’s style is noisy, clever, and showy. Attribution Curran Index.
Hayman, John Marshall.“Milner’s Russia.” Saturday Review, 1, no. 14: (2 February 1856): 255–56.
Full title of Thomas Milner’s book is Russia: Its Rise and Progress, Tragedies and Revelations. Review is scathing (even after the publication of an anticipated second volume, it will not be shorter, cheaper, or demonstrate more industry that Russian histories that already exist and it is inferior in style). Reviewer notes that the book originated as articles in the periodical Leisure Hour.. Attribution Curran Index.
Stephen, James Fitzjames.“Beaumarchais and His Times.” Saturday Review, 1, no. 15: (9 February 1856): 278–80.
Louis de Loménie’s book is described as interesting, and a valuable contribution to the history of French society before the Revolution. Review continues two weeks later. Attribution Curran Index.
Donne, William Bodham.“Milman’s Latin Christianity.” Saturday Review, 1, no. 15: (9 February 1856): 277–78.
Henry Hart Milman’s book (6 volumes, Murray, 1854-5) is praised for erudition, piety, liberality and judgement. The reviewer notices ‘a certain rugged negligence’ of style, it is not soon to be superseded. Attribution Curran Index.
Mansfield, Robert Blachford.“Madame De Longueville.” Saturday Review, 1, no. 16: (16 February 1856): 302–4.
This is one of a series of biographies by Victor Cousin. Full title is The Youth of Madame de Longueville, from the French of Victor Cousin, by F. W. Ricord (published by Appleton). Attribution Curran Index.
Stephen, James Fitzjames.“Life and Times of Beaumarchais.” Saturday Review, 1, no. 17: (23 February 1856): 322–24.
Continuation from the issue of 9 February. Attribution Curran Index.
Donne, William Bodham.“Milman’s Latin Christianity.” Saturday Review, 1, no. 17: (23 February 1856): 324–25.
Second notice continues review begun in February 9 issue. Attribution Curran Index.
Lewes, George Henry.“Sir A. Alison on German Literature.” Saturday Review, 1, no. 17: (23 February 1856): 326–27.
This review of Alison’s book on German literature is incorrectly designated by SR as a review of his History of Europe 1815-1852. Scathing critique of verbiage and inaccuracy; this book does not consider what readers already know, it is clear that the author does not understand the language of the literature he instructs of in this work; it is an overall foolish and false chapter in historical writing. Attribution Curran Index.
“Spanish Conquest in America. Vol 3.” Saturday Review, 1, no. 8: (14 March 1856)
Review of volume 3 of Arthur Helps’s book (J. W. Parker) says it is deeper and shows greater ease and mastery of the subject -- ‘the most entertaining book yet written on Spanish America’.
Sandars, Thomas Collett.“Knights and Their Days.” Saturday Review, 1, no. 20: (15 March 1856): 396–97.
Scathing review of this ’example of ‘bookmaking’ by John Doran. Reviewer says it is full of useless information about the chivalrous age, but fears it will find a market. Published by Bentley, 1856. Attribution Curran Index.
Sandars, Thomas Collett.“Grote’s History of Greece.” Saturday Review, 1, no. 21: (22 March 1856): 415–16.
Reviewer of the twelfth and final volume of George Grote’s book (published by Murray, 1856) says it demonstrates that the historian has advanced the world’s knowledge about Greek antiquities and the work is never commonplace, negligent, or weak. Attribution Curran Index.
“The Rise of the Dutch Republic.” Saturday Review, 1, no. 21: (22 March 1856): 418–19.
Review states that John Lothrop Motley is diligent, spirited, and enthusiastic about the topic. Some of the treatment, however, is judged to be inconsistent with the judicial solemnity of the historian. Attribution Curran Index.
Lewes, George Henry.“The History of Ancient Philosophy.” Saturday Review, 1, no. 23: (5 April 1856): 460–61.
Reviewer finds that these posthumous lectures were ‘creditable’ to William Archer Butler, but notes the lack of treatment of Socrates and Plato. Attribution Curran Index.
Sandars, Thomas Collett.“Guizot’s Richard Cromwell and the Restoration.” Saturday Review, 1, no. 24: (12 April 1856): 477–78.
François Guizot is described as a patient investigator who respects the agency of historical figures and provides a clear exposition of the facts. Book translated by Andrew R. S. Scoble, published Bentley, 1856. Attribution Curran Index.
“Marlborough and Wellington.” Saturday Review, 1, no. 25: (19 April 1856): 506.
Reviewer of this dual biography draws attention to the blindness of the author, James E. W. E. Gascoyne-Cecil, Viscount Cranborne. He comprehends the doings, sympathizes with the genius, and shares the progress of his fellows. Published London: John Mitchell.
Sandars, Thomas Collett.“Froude’s History of England. Vols 1 & 2.” Saturday Review, 1, no. 26: (26 April 1856): 520–21.
First of two notices: Froude can write both good English and good narrative, and he makes reflections that are neither truisms or paradoxes. But his judgement is impaired by partiality towards the Protestant cause. Attribution Curran Index.
Sandars, Thomas Collett.“Froude’s History of England.” Saturday Review, 2, no. 27: (3 May 1856): 17–19.
Second notice: Continues to note Froude’s fine writing and poor historical judgement. Attribution Curran Index.
Donne, William Bodham.“Merivale’s Rome. Vols 4 & 5.” Saturday Review, 2, no. 27: (3 May 1856): 14–16.
Charles Merivale’s book is described as a full and faithful picture of Rome despite ‘treacherous ground underlying statements of Tiberius, Caisus, and Claudius.’ Publisher is Longman. Attribution Curran Index.
“Modern Society in Rome.” Saturday Review, 2, no. 28: (10 May 1856): 44–45.
This book by J.Richard Beste (published Hurst & Blackett, 1856) is described as a hybrid of fiction and history; the reviewer finds it a feeble, insipid, worthless production, which does not deliver on its promises.
“Scottish Heroes in the Days of Wallace and Bruce.” Saturday Review, 2, no. 29: (17 May 1856): 70–71.
Alexander Low’s book is not informative about its subjects and fails to realize the merit of sources or how to use and interpret them.
Freeman, E. A.“Creasy’s History of the Ottoman Turks.” Saturday Review, 2, no. 30: (24 May 1856): 88–89.
Surveys E. A. Creasy’s merits, but also finds ‘carelessness and party spirit’, and is troubled by the author’s moving into current events, rather than limiting himself to history. Notes that the book is ‘got up’ by Bentley ‘in a handsome but not a scholar-like form -- one adapted for the drawing-room rather than the library’. Attribution Curran Index.
Freeman, E. A.“Greece Under the Ottomans.” Saturday Review, 2, no. 35: (28 June 1856): 206–7.
Compares George Finlay’s work favourably to that of Creasy. This is not written for the popular marketplace, or with current affairs in mind, but advances Finlay’s reputation for learned historical research and writing. Attribution Curran Index.
“The Old Regime and the Revolution.” Saturday Review, 2, no. 35: (28 June 1856): 202–3.
Review of Paris edition of Alexis de Toqueville’s work says it demonstrates how the ‘germs of democracy were nourished in the nation long before the Revolution’. It has great merit as a historical study as it uses numerous forgotten records as evidence.
“History in Landscape: Seddon’s Pictures.” Saturday Review, 2, no. 37: (12 July 1856): 246–47.
Meditation on artistic work with historical subject-matter discusses Thomas Seddon’s paintings of Egypt and Palestine.
“Kahnis’s German Protestantism.” Saturday Review, 2, no. 38: (19 July 1856): 277–78.
While expressing various anti-German prejudices, the reviewer notes that Karl F. A. Kahnis’s book is a valuable contribution to religious history despite its omissions. Translated by T. Meyer; Published Hamilton & Co.
“North American Indian Legends.” Saturday Review, 2, no. 38: (19 July 1856): 273–75.
Admiring review, full of anthropological reflections, of Henry Schoolcraft’s The Myth of Hiawatha, which contains other legends and myths. Notes the book is designed for students and that it gives the reader feelings of both sorrow and satisfaction. Published by Trubner.
“Frenchmen of Divers Estates.” Saturday Review, 2, no. 39: (26 July 1856): 297–98.
Reviewer regards this book by Amans Alexis Monteil (4th edition, 5 volumes published Paris: Hachette) as a remarkable monument of research but vast in scope.
“Thierry’s History of Attila.” Saturday Review, 2, no. 43: (23 August 1856): 381–82.
Notes that Amedée Thierry’s work, though pleasantly written, ‘seems like child’s play after Gibbon.’
Sandars, Thomas Collett.“The Marquis De Dangeau.” Saturday Review, 2, no. 44: (30 August 1856): 399–400.
This volume of Dangeau’s journals (5 volumes, Paris: Didot, 1854-6) is a useful corrective to St Simon’s memoirs. Sanders says it contributes well to the history of Louis XIV. He comments on the overabundance of historical sources for the nineteenth century. Attribution Curran Index.
Venables, Georg Stovin.“History of the French Revolution.” Saturday Review, 2, no. 45: (6 September 1856): 422–23.
Louis Blanc is a good writer but not a historian. Volume 8 of his work published in Paris. Attribution Curran Index.
“The History and Conquests of the Saracens.” Saturday Review, 2, no. 47: (20 September 1856): 470–71.
Detailed and respectful review of E. A. Freeman’s lectures (published by J.H. & J. Parker). Finds them interesting, vigorous, and truthful.
“The Napoleon Correspondence.” Saturday Review, 2, no. 48: (27 September 1856): 486–87.
Described as interesting, credibly translated and useful to readers, this review is presented without the name of either editor or translator. Published by John Murray.
Sandars, Thomas Collett.“Memoirs of St. Simon.” Saturday Review, 2, no. 50: (11 October 1856): 526–28.
This edition is prepared by M. Chevuel and published in Paris by Hachette. Sanders calls St Stimon an excellent writer who is a pleasure to read. Attribution Curran Index.
Stephen, James Fitzjames.“Life of Matthew Robinson.” Saturday Review, 2, no. 51: (18 October 1856): 551–52.
After a commentary on modern periodical writing, including anonymity, Stephen comments on this second volume of Cambridge in the Seventeenth Century, which is an edition of Robinson’s manuscript autobiography by J. E. B. Mayor. The editor is praised for zeal and industry. Publisher is Macmillan for the Cambridge University Press, 1856. Attribution Curran Index.
Watson, Christopher Knight.“Columbus.” Saturday Review, 2, no. 53: (1 November 1856): 597–98.
Scathing review of a book in French (2 vol, Didier) by Roselly de Lorgues, ‘the first effort of a Frenchman, a European and a Roman Catholic’ on the subject. Mere hagiography, the work has no regard for truth, honesty, common sense, or impartiality and is not recommended. Attribution Curran Index.
Sandars, Thomas Collett.“The Grands-Jours of Auvergne.” Saturday Review, 2, no. 54: (8 November 1856): 619–21.
This notice reviews an edition of the 17th-century memoirs of Esprit Fléchier. 2nd edition published in Paris. Attribution Curran Index.
Hutton, Richard Holt.“Strauss’s Life of Nicodemus Frischlin.” Saturday Review, 2, no. 55: (15 November 1856): 641–43.
In the reviewer’s opinion, this biography of a poet and philologist, by David Friedrich Strauss, is not the contribution to German cultural history it claims to be. Published Frankfurt: Rüthen. Attribution Curran Index.
Duff, Mountstuart Elphinstone Grant-.“Cornelius Agrippa.” Saturday Review, 2, no. 56: (22 November 1856): 664–66.
This ‘diligent’ biography by Henry Morley (published by Chapman & Hall) provides a clear memorial to this hero by showing who he was, what he did, and what he wrote. But there is too much emphasis on minute details. Attribution Curran Index.
Sandars, Thomas Collett.“Mr. Macaulay on Scotland.” Saturday Review, 2, no. 52: (25 November 1856): 569–70.
Comments on a series of anonymous pamphlets by a Scot, claiming that Scotland was maligned by Macaulay in the History. These remarks are in the context that Scots are very provincial at home, though charming and competent abroad. The article refers to a series of articles in an Edinburgh periodical, the Witness, on the same subject, as well as an article in the September 1856 Blackwood’s. Attribution Curran Index.
“The Girlhood of Catherine De Medici.” Saturday Review, 2, no. 57: (29 November 1856): 688–90.
Scathing review of Thomas Adolphus Trollope’s biography; ‘his judgment is far too much under the domination of theological prejudice to render him a safe guide’. Published by Chapman & Hall.
Freeman, Edward Augustus.“Trikoupes’ History of the Greek Revolution.” Saturday Review, 2, no. 58: (6 December 1856): 707–8.
First of two notices of this work, in modern Greek, by Spyridon Trikoupis -- at that time living in London as a diplomat -- on contemporary history. The work is judged remarkable, in particular the naval accounts. The only real fault is that he does not acknowledge that the movements were not exclusively Hellenic. Published in London by Williams & Norgate. Attribution Curran Index.
Freeman, Edward Augustus.“Trikoupes’ History of the Greek Revolution.” Saturday Review, 2, no. 59: (13 December 1856): 731–32.
(Second notice). Continues the review with comments on Spyridon Trikoupis’s scholarship in, and use of, the modern Greek language. Attribution Curran Index.
Stephen, James Fitzjames.“Mr. Gurney’s Historical Sketches.” Saturday Review, 2, no. 61: (27 December 1856): 782–83.
Regards this second series of sketches (on St Louis and Henry IV) as powerful and lively, noting that they are intended for those young people who have outgrown Mrs. Markham and are not yet at Sismondi. But Stephen enters into debate with Gurney on the subject of political morality and the character of leaders, stating a strong justification for Empire. Attribution Curran Index.
Venables, Georg Stovin.“Lives of the Lord Chancellors of England.” Saturday Review, 3, no. 62: (3 January 1857): 14–16.
Venables stresses the popularity of this stereotyped 4th edition of a 10-volume work by John Campbell (first Baron Campbell) first published in 1849. After Macaulay and Alison ('Mr Wordy’) Campbell’s works are ‘pre-eminently popular and saleable’ -- but all three popular historians ‘[abstain] from any demand on the thinking faculty’. Educated minds will find Campbell heavy without being instructive, as well as untrustworthy, weak, and redundant. {attribution Curran Index).
Sandars, Thomas Collett.“Mr. Thackeray on George the First.” Saturday Review, 3, no. 62: (3 January 1857): 11.
Sandars’s anonymous comments on a public lecture recently delivered -- the first of four on the Georges, at the Marylebone Institution. The delivery was quiet, clear and amusing. Notes that these lectures were recently delivered in America. Regrets that the content was gossipy and superficial, and comments on the hypocrisy of a fashionable audience. {attribution Curran Index}.
Cecil, Robert Arthur Talbot Gascoyne (Marquis of Salisbury).“Robertson’s Church History.” Saturday Review, 3, no. 65: (24 January 1857): 83–84.
J. C. Robertson’s book (published John Murray, 1856) is very similar to Dean Milman’s history of Latin Christianity but reads as a chronicle, or a ‘faithful narrative of events’, in contrast to Milman’s Macaulayesque ‘series of brilliant pictures’, or poetry. Good for students, or as a work of reference. (Attribution Curran Index).
Duff, Mountstuart Elphinstone Grant-.“Revolution in the Two Sicilies.” Saturday Review, 3, no. 66: (31 January 1857): 106–8.
The reviewer of this work by Le Baron Léon D’Hervey-Saint-Denys (published Paris: Amyot, 1856) regards the author as ‘an absolutist and a fanatic’ who ‘abhors England’, but takes the opportunity to expound an alternative view of the subject. (Attribution Curran Index).
“French Romance in the Thirteenth Century.” Saturday Review, 3, no. 68: (14 February 1857): 160–61.
This series of prose tales edited by L. Moland and C. D’Héricault (published Paris: Janet, 1856) is praised as a valuable contribution to the history of early European literature.
Pearson, Charles Henry.“Mary Stuart.” Saturday Review, 3, no. 69: (21 February 1857): 183–84.
This is volume 6 of Agnes Strickland’s Queens of Scotland. Pearson is unsympathetic with Strickland’s attempt to defend Mary’s actions and character. Despite being carefully researched, the work is not historical and not critically analyzed. (Attribution Curran Index).
“The Spanish Conquest in America.” Saturday Review, 3, no. 73: (21 March 1857): 269–70.
Another review, this time of volume 3, claims that while this is not as entertaining as the previous volumes, the work’s strength is Arthur Helps’s unique analysis of the material. A discussion on how historians take different views towards historical events is also incorporated.
“Annals of England.” Saturday Review, 3, no. 74: (28 March 1857): 296.
This ‘epitome’ published by J. H. & J. Parker was edited by William Edward Flaherty. A ‘useful and unpretending little book’ it will be of use in school and university settings. The review comments on how parents judge ‘the historical food prepared for their children’.
“Fields of Battle.” Saturday Review, 3, no. 77: (18 April 1857): 358–59.
This is a collection of papers on visits to 16th-century battlefields read by the author, Richard Brooke, to the Society of Antiquaries (published London: John Russell Smith). Described as valuable, well done, and of general interest.
Cecil, Robert Arthur Talbot Gascoyne (Marquis of Salisbury).“The Life of Martin Luther.” Saturday Review, 3, no. 77: (18 April 1857): 364–65.
The review explains that Henry Worsley does not write as a historian; the book is clearly intended to entertain and inform, and does not refer to matters of historiographical dispute. 2 vol., published London: Bell & Daldy, 1856. (Attribution Curran Index).
“The History and Antiquities of Saint David’s.” Saturday Review, 3, no. 78: (25 April 1857): 386–88.
This book by William Basil Jones and E. A. Freeman (published J.H. Parker, 1856) seems to be intended for more advanced readers but has some appeal to the general reader. Illustrations are unsatisfactory, but the work is a valuable contribution for ecclesiologists, antiquarians, and history students.
Stephen, James Fitzjames.“Alison’s History of Europe.” Saturday Review, 3, no. 79: (2 May 1857): 408–9.
Review of volume 6 of Archibald Alison’s History of Europe 1815-1852. Scathing as usual: ‘Envelopment in the dense Scotch mist -- moral, intellectual, and sometimes even grammatical -- in which the landscape is shrouded, is the price which [readers] must pay for the convenience’. (Attribution Curran Index).
“Lewes’s Biographical History of Philosophy.” Saturday Review, 3, no. 85: (13 June 1857): 552–53.
This is an enlarged and improved edition of George Henry Lewes’s book first published in 1846. Described as original, thoughtful, remarkable, and a valuable work which plainly and strongly states opinions. Published by J. W. Parker, 1857.
“The Egyptians in the Time of the Pharaohs.” Saturday Review, 3, no. 85: (13 June 1857): 555–56.
States that this work by Sir Gardner Wilkinson (a Companion to the Crystal Palace Egyptian collections, published by Bradbury & Evans for the Crystal Palace Company, 1857) is amusing and instructive. Published for the circulating-library and railway-bookstall market, it popularizes the Egyptian antiquities and has numerous and well executed illustrations.
“Lives of the Earl and Countess of Arundel.” Saturday Review, 3, no. 87: (27 June 1857): 603–4.
The Duke of Norfolk has set a good example by editing a manuscript in the possession of his family. Despite inevitable bias of family prejudice, the value of this sort of document lies in how it completes the picture of a person or era of historical significance.
Sandars, Thomas Collett.“Buckle’s History of Civilization in England. Vol. 1.” Saturday Review, 4, no. 89: (11 July 1857): 38–40.
Thomas Henry Buckle’s book is remarkable, rich, and ‘has created a new standard of philosophical history’ by introducing a scientific approach. Published by J. W. Parker. (Attribution Curran Index).
“History of Greek Literature.” Saturday Review, 4, no. 91: (25 July 1857): 84–86.
The fifth volume of W. Mure’s book is pleasing and deserving of attention.
“History of Greek Literature.” Saturday Review, 4, no. 93: (8 August 1857): 134–35.
Hopes that someone whose style is more pithy and whose aim is less ambitious than Mure’s may offer a short but scholarly work on the same topic.
“The Empire and the Church.” Saturday Review, 4, no. 94: (15 August 1857): 162–63.
Reviewer claims that the diction and style of the book by Mrs Hamilton Grey is clear and sensible; it achieves its goal in appealing to the general public. States the book is a ‘manual for reference and pretends to be nothing more.’
“Barante’s Etudes Historiques.” Saturday Review, 4, no. 95: (22 August 1857): 185–86.
One of the most eminent and learned historians.
“History of German Literature.” Saturday Review, 4, no. 96: (29 August 1857): 208–9.
Book by Julian von Schmidt (in German) is useful to both the beginner and the veteran student of German literature.
Stokes, Whitley.“Adamnan’s Life of Saint Columba.” Saturday Review, 4, no. 97: (5 September 1857): 224–25.
Is a remarkable work that deserves more attention than it has received. (Attribution Curran Index).
“Elizabeth De Valois.” Saturday Review, 4, no. 98: (12 September 1857): 245–46.
Agreeably written, does not detract from Martha Walker Freer’s well-earned reputation. Publisher is Hurst & Blackett.
“Lectures on Roman Husbandry.” Saturday Review, 4, no. 98: (12 September 1857): 247–48.
Clear and spirited sketch by Charles Daubeny; published by J. H. Parker.
“Tucker’s United States.” Saturday Review, 4, no. 98: (12 September 1857): 248–49.
Discusses what U.S history should be and expands on George Tucker’s defects.
“The Franks.” Saturday Review, 4, no. 99: (19 September 1857): 268–69.
Differs from predecessors in general treatment and conclusions drawn; review states that this book by W. S. Perry is the authority on the subject.
“Henri IV et Richelieu.” Saturday Review, 4, no. 100: (26 September 1857): 288–89.
Michelet’s work is characterized as a vivid narration, which reflects positivist philosophy; it is eloquently and well-written.
“History of the English and American Press.” Saturday Review, 4, no. 100: (26 September 1857): 283–84.
Cucheval Clarigny’s book is readable, written with industry , and contains a great amount of information of more or less interest. In French.
“Lappenberg’s England Under the Anglo-Norman Kings.” Saturday Review, 4, no. 100: (26 September 1857): 286.
Reviewer praises Johann Martin Lappenburg for his accuracy in his research; claims he has produced ‘incomparably the best modern narrative of the period with which he deals.’
“Gieseler’s Church History.” Saturday Review, 4, no. 103: (17 October 1857): 355–56.
Accurate, clear, comprehensive, and a welcome church history for all students.
“History of St. Canice Cathedral.” Saturday Review, 4, no. 103: (17 October 1857): 353–54.
Book by the Rev. James Graves contributes to scientific archaeology of Ireland and piques interest in the topic.
“Moral Culture of Antiquity.” Saturday Review, 4, no. 103: (17 October 1857): 352–53.
This book by J. Denis, published in Paris in French, is judged to be a valuable contribution to the study of the institutions and evidence of Christianity.
“Brialmont’s History of the Duke of Wellington.” Saturday Review, 4, no. 104: (24 October 1857): 372.
This work in the French language by A. Brialmont does honour to England and equal honour to France.
“Murray’s British India.” Saturday Review, 4, no. 105: (31 October 1857): 397–98.
Not profound and original but rather Hugh Murray has made a mere compendium of ordinary and familiar books.
“Historical Parallels to the Indian Mutiny.” Saturday Review, 4, no. 106: (7 November 1857): 416–17.
This article compares historical Carthaginian struggles (Mithridatic War) to the Indian crisis currently occurring.
“A Hundred Years Ago.” Saturday Review, 4, no. 107: (14 November 1857): 448–49.
James Hutton’s book adds nothing new to the topic.
Muller, Friedrich Max.“Renan’s Essays on the History of Religion.” Saturday Review, 4, no. 109: (28 November 1857): 496.
Discusses new additions to the new edition.
“Life of Mary Queen of Scots.” Saturday Review, 5, no. 118: (30 January 1858): 115–16.
States that this biography by Donald MacLeod (published in New York) is too biased and that the author has a disregard for historical facts and evidence.
“Hazlitt’s Republic of Venice.” Saturday Review, 5, no. 120: (13 February 1858): 164–65.
Reviewer claims Hazlitt has ‘no power of composition, no power of historical criticism and no knowledge of general European history.’
Freeman, Edward Augustus.“Trikoupes’ History of the Greek Revolution.” Saturday Review, 5, no. 121: (20 February 1858): 192–93.
Review of final (third?) volume of Spyridon Trikoupis’s history. (See also two notices in 1856). Praises a well-written narrative on Greece’s ‘noble struggle for freedom.’ (Attribution Curran Index).
“God’s Heroes and the World’s Heroes.” Saturday Review, 5, no. 122: (27 February 1858): 219–20.
Criticizes the author, J. Hampton Gurney, and the whole school of historical thought to which he belongs, which praise the history of missionaries over other historical figures.
“The Campaign of 1815.” Saturday Review, 5, no. 123: (6 March 1858): 248–51.
Well-researched, well-written and intriguing account of this event. Written in French by Lieut. Colonel Charras; published in London by Jeffs.
“The Geraldines.” Saturday Review, 5, no. 124: (13 March 1858): 273–74.
A study of the earls of Kildare, by the current Marquis of Kildare. Commends the author for choosing a good subject and combining a detailed history of a family within a wider historical context.
Sandars, Thomas Collett.“Froude’s History of England. Vols 3 & 4.” Saturday Review, 5, no. 125: (20 March 1858): 294–95.
This review covers Volume 3 only. Admires J. A. Froude’s researches into newly-discovered manuscript materials but raises questions about reliability with respect to his interpretation of this evidence. Attribution Curran Index.
Cecil, Robert Arthur Talbot Gascoyne (Marquis of Salisbury).“The Factory Movement.” Saturday Review, 5, no. 125: (20 March 1858): 298–99.
Partisan, wordy, panegyric account of conflict between classes. The book is written under a pseudonym ('Alfred’) and published by Simpkin & Marshall. (Attribution Curran Index).
Stephen, James Fitzjames.“Alison’s History of Europe (1815-52).” Saturday Review, 5, no. 126: (27 March 1858): 317–19.
This scathing review of volume 7 of Archibald Alison’s (very popular) work discusses the perils of writing contemporary history. It may be distasteful to “acute and practiced intellects.” (Attribution Curran Index).
Sandars, Thomas Collett.“Froude’s History of England. Vols 3 & 4.” Saturday Review, 5, no. 126: (27 March 1858): 320–21.
Continues from the previous week. James A. Froude can tell a dull story well and makes the old story seem new by finding and using new and copious material. But dissents from several conclusions, especially with respect to Henry VIII. Attribution Curran Index.
“Recovery of Greek Classics.” Saturday Review, 5, no. 126: (27 March 1858): 313–14.
Article about recovering classical Greek texts from people who own them so they can be rightfully placed in a library.
Freeman, Edward Augustus.“Materials for British History.” Saturday Review, 5, no. 127: (3 April 1858): 350–51.
Reviews a medieval Chronicle of England published in the Rolls Series, observing that the low cost of this book will make it widely read and the language is suitable for ordinary readers. (Attribution Curran Index).
“The Queens of Prussia.” Saturday Review, 5, no. 128: (10 April 1858): 374–75.
Reviewer criticizes the book for its lack of research, but finds merit in the narrative. The review suggests that since the style is clear and easy it will be popular with the public. Author is Emma Willsherer Atkinson; publisher is Kent & Co.
“Floto’s History of the Emperor Henry IV.” Saturday Review, 5, no. 129: (17 April 1858): 398–99.
Review says the work adds nothing new but Von Hartwig Floto does contest Protestant writers of the past who sympathized with Hildebrandine Romanism. Book is in German, published Stuttgart.
“History of Ancient Pottery.” Saturday Review, 5, no. 129: (17 April 1858): 396–98.
First of two notices of Samuel Birch’s work. What might seem a useless subject is shown to be useful in demonstrating “fictile art” of Egypt, Assyria, Greece, and Rome, and the Celtic, and Teutonic nations.
“History of Ancient Pottery.” Saturday Review, 5, no. 130: (24 April 1858): 425–26.
(Second Notice). Illustrations are carefully and delicately designed, although descriptions of engravings are lacking.
“The Antiquities of the New World.” Saturday Review, 5, no. 131: (1 May 1858): 445–46.
Summarizes information that is new to ordinary readers which thus should have been expanded on. Review covers three works: on Mexican History/Archaeology by B. Mayer; on US Archaeology by Samuel F. Haven, and Peruvian Antiquities by Mariano Edward Rovero et al.
“History of the Canon of the New Testament.” Saturday Review, 5, no. 133: (15 May 1858): 510–11.
Theology students and general public owe a debt to Westcott for candid and comprehensive essay on this topic.
Freeman, Edward Augustus.“Lives of Edward the Confessor.” Saturday Review, 5, no. 136: (5 June 1858): 590–91.
All three works reviewed offer a valuable contribution to the history of early England. Authors are Charles Didier, Mme la Princesse de Belgie; Henry Richards Laird.
“Forster’s Essays.” Saturday Review, 5, no. 137: (12 June 1858): 616–17.
These two volumes are not connected at all in subject matter. The first volume is a valuable contribution to history and the second is a valuable contribution to biography, but they do not come together as a homogeneous whole.
“Richelieu.” Saturday Review, 5, no. 137: (12 June 1858): 614–16.
Michelet’s book, Richelieu et le Fronde (published D. Nutt), is a ‘Good specimen of the mixed influences which affect modern history.’
“Merivale’s Rome Under the Emperors. Vol. 6.” Saturday Review, 6, no. 142: (17 July 1858): 63–64.
Discusses the successors of the Julian Caesars and notes that Charles Merivale upholds his reputation as a learned, faithful and picturesque chronicler.
“A Tale of Roman Life.” Saturday Review, 6, no. 143: (24 July 1858): 81–82.
Document recently appearing in the Revue des Deux Mondes was from the time of Gregory XVI and offers facts about Roman life.
“Tudors and Stuarts.” Saturday Review, 6, no. 146: (14 August 1858): 165–66.
Is partisan and not the work of a sound patriot. Discusses several passages which are described as an abomination. Author is identified only as ‘a descendent of the Plantagenets’; publisher is Hardwicke.
“Narcissus Luttrell’s Diary.” Saturday Review, 6, no. 147: (21 August 1858): 192–93.
Judges the work to be ’musty and tedious’ ; readers would be insane to wade through it.
“William the Conqueror.” Saturday Review, 6, no. 147: (21 August 1858): 188–89.
Useful to history students but not good for Napier’s reputation. Subtitled ‘A Historical Romance’ the book is by Charles Napier; publisher is Routledge.
“The Annals of Windsor.” Saturday Review, 6, no. 148: (28 August 1858): 209–10.
Historically valuable, vast amount of information, and of general and literary interest. Authors are R. R. Tighe and J. E. Davis; publisher is Longman.
“The City of the Great King.” Saturday Review, 6, no. 148: (28 August 1858): 211–13.
The author, J. T. Barclay, is incapable of drawing sound conclusions but does uncover a couple of important facts about Jerusalem, particularly within the Harem. Publisher is Trubner.
“Historical Romance.” Saturday Review, 6, no. 150: (11 September 1858): 251–52.
This article observes that historical romances present facts and connect them together without knowing the true sequence of events. Whereas a true historian, like Froude, will present the facts and let the reader piece the sequence together.
Freeman, Edward Augustus.“Chronicles and Memorials of Great Britain and Ireland.” Saturday Review, 6, no. 151: (18 September 1858): 283–85.
This third notice of two collections of medieval documents judges both to be well edited. Editors are W. W. Shirley and Rev. Charles Hardwick. (Attribution Curran Index).
“Homer and the Homeric Age.” Saturday Review, 6, no. 152: (25 September 1858): 307–9.
Remarkable; the most interesting part is where William Ewart Gladstone focuses on Homer’s poetical excellence.
“Marie Antoinette.” Saturday Review, 6, no. 152: (25 September 1858): 305–6.
The authors, Edmond and Jules de Goncourt, ‘are not without a certain aptitude for bookmaking, but their minds display a feminine character.’ The review nevertheless anticipates the book will be popular because it’s about an attractive subject. Includes comments on Strickland’s works on the lives of queens.
“Massey’s History of England.” Saturday Review, 6, no. 154: (9 October 1858): 352–53.
This review covers volume 2 of the work by William Massey (published Parker). Style of writing is not eloquent but practical and clear. ‘If his history is not a perfect one, it is the best of the period.’
“Memoirs of Count Miot De Melito.” Saturday Review, 6, no. 154: (9 October 1858): 354–55.
Calm, sensible, painstaking, observant, and a valuable addition to the literature of the Consulate and the Empire, but uses peculiar sources. Publisher is Michel Levy Freres, of Paris.
“Monastic Historians in English.” Saturday Review, 6, no. 154: (9 October 1858): 355–57.
This study, entitled The Church Historians of England (vol 4 part 1) is a translation of the medieval church historians, by Rev Joseph Stevenson; reviewer states that translation is poor, and it would have been more useful to make additions to the original version than to have translated it. Publisher is Seeley, 1856.
“Studies of the Great Rebellion.” Saturday Review, 6, no. 155: (16 October 1858): 377–78.
Presents a marked contrast to other recent volumes on the Stuarts which are unwholesome; believes this work by John Langton Sanford will be better received. Publisher is Parker.
“The Antiquities of Lambeth.” Saturday Review, 6, no. 155: (16 October 1858): 380–82.
John Tanswell’s book would have been better had it been better arranged and if it had an index (which is to be hoped for in the next edition). Publisher is John Russell Smith.
“The Encyclopaedia Metropolitana - Church History.” Saturday Review, 6, no. 155: (16 October 1858): 378–80.
Objects to the plan of the book (by Rev Alfred Lyell et al) but not the general execution, as the execution is deserving of praise. Publisher is Griffin.
“Beatrice Cenci.” Saturday Review, 6, no. 156: (23 October 1858): 401–2.
An Historical Novel of the Sixteenth Century. By F D. Guerrazzi., who says it will not be read by good girls but by ‘maidens of my native land.’ Reviewer concludes that Shelley’s version is more trustworthy.
“Carlyle’s History of Frederick II.” Saturday Review, 6, no. 156: (23 October 1858): 398–99.
This work is not for those who cannot understand Carlyle’s ‘peculiar language’ and is also careless with abstractions and generalizations.
Cecil, Robert Arthur Talbot Gascoyne (Marquis of Salisbury).“The Reformers of Italy and France.” Saturday Review, 6, no. 156: (23 October 1858): 402–3.
This book by J. C. Colquhoun is described as agreeable, instructive, and points out ecclesiastical history that is often neglected. Publisher is Werthen and Macintosh. (Attribution Curran Index).
“Barnes on Ancient Britain.” Saturday Review, 6, no. 157: (30 October 1858): 429–30.
Is slighter in size and texture than the actual subject, though William Barnes knows the subject well and the reader can obtain useful “hints while turning over this little volume.” Publisher is J. R. Smith.
“Carlyle’s History of Frederick II.” Saturday Review, 6, no. 157: (30 October 1858): 423–25.
There is little about actual life of Friedrich as it focuses primarily on his reign.
“Southey’s Life of Wesley.” Saturday Review, 6, no. 157: (30 October 1858): 425–26.
Great and of peculiar charm.
Venables, Georg Stovin.“Carlyle’s History of Frederick II.” Saturday Review, 6, no. 158: (6 November 1858): 450–51.
[3rd notice]. Every reader will be left thinking that Frederick William was not the most unforgivable of human nature. (Attribution Curran Index).
“HISTORY OF GREEK LITERATURE.” Saturday Review, 6, no. 158: (6 November 1858): 455–56.
Offers a full, yet concise, learned yet entertaining, account of the topic. Author is K. O. Mueller; publisher is J.W. Parker.
“Autobiography of Catherine of Russia.” Saturday Review, 6, no. 161: (27 November 1858): 535–36.
Preface (by A. Herzen) is more political than historical. Publisher is Trubner.
“Bacon’s Historical Works.” Saturday Review, 6, no. 163: (11 December 1858): 588–89.
Discusses Bacon’s style and skills as an historian.
“Biography of Lord George Bentinck.” Saturday Review, 6, no. 165: (25 December 1858): 646–47.
Disraeli’s biography is described as careless; makes outlandish claims.
“THE LIFE OF JAMES WATT.” Saturday Review, 7, no. 167: (8 January 1859): 47–48.
Well-researched, but not a good narrative. Author is James Patrick Muirhead; publisher is Murray.
“M. LOUIS BLANC’S FRENCH REVOLUTION.” Saturday Review, 7, no. 168: (15 January 1859): 72–73.
English readers must excuse Blanc’s theatrical sympathies with the French; as the reviewer observes, he does not write for them..
“THE DESCENDANTS OF THE STUARTS.” Saturday Review, 7, no. 169: (22 January 1859): 102–3.
May have been more interesting had it been more carefully constructed. Author is William Townend; publisher is Longman.
“MASSON’S LIFE OF MILTON.” Saturday Review, 7, no. 170: (29 January 1859): 128–30.
David Masson has collected new information and made use of all available sources. The work has a merit that counter-balances all the defects.
Stephen, James Fitzjames.“THE HISTORY OF BRITISH JOURNALISM.” Saturday Review, 7, no. 170: (29 January 1859): 127–28.
Good collection of materials but style at times is vulgar. Author is Alexander Andrews; publisher is Bentley. (Attribution Curran Index).
“THE LAST JOURNALS OF HORACE WALPOLE.” Saturday Review, 7, no. 173: (19 February 1859): 216–17.
Would be useful to a new biographer, as the primary document needed in writing about Walpole.
“Memoirs of the Court of George IV.” Saturday Review, 7, no. 176: (12 March 1859): 308–10.
Overall the memoirs make a good political history; however the Duke of Buckingham and Chandos, as editor, could have given more consideration to the wider historical context of the period. Publisher is Hurst & Blackett.
“LATHBURY’S HISTORY OF THE PRAYER BOOK.” Saturday Review, 7, no. 178: (26 March 1859): 377.
Diligent collection of source material but not so skillful in judgment of using them. The book is too late, as the topic is not of general interest any longer.
Stephen, James Fitzjames.“PLUTARCH’S LIVES.” Saturday Review, 7, no. 179: (2 April 1859): 402–4.
Discusses reputation of the work and the influence of Plutarch. Translator of this edition is R. Langborne. (Attribution Curran Index).
“LORD MACAULAY’S LIFE OF PITT.” Saturday Review, 7, no. 180: (9 April 1859): 434–35.
Reviews Macaulay’s essay on Pitt in Encyclopedia Britannica (8th ed). Regards it as interesting and instructive.
“BURGON’S LIFE OF TYTLER.” Saturday Review, 7, no. 181: (16 April 1859): 468–70.
Pleasing, but this account of the life of Patrick Fraser Tytler (by John W. Burgon) could have been more concise; the sources used were helpful. Publisher is Murray.
“THIERRY’S HISTORY OF THE TIERS ETAT.” Saturday Review, 7, no. 181: (16 April 1859): 472–73.
Draws attention to important matters (Roman municipal spirit in France).
“A NEW HISTORY OF THE CONQUEST OF MEXICO.” Saturday Review, 7, no. 182: (23 April 1859): 500–501.
Before English readers could stand this work (by Robert Anderson Wilson) it would have to be rid of its American vulgarisms and reduced in length.
Freeman, Edward Augustus.“PRESCOTT’S PHILIP THE SECOND.” Saturday Review, 7, no. 183: (30 April 1859): 531–33.
Prescott’s powers are perfectly adapted to his work and his death (which recently happened) will really leave a void in history. (Attribution Curran Index).
“COLLETTA’S HISTORY OF NAPLES.” Saturday Review, 7, no. 185: (14 May 1859): 594–96.
Chapters on more recent history are the most interesting and least instructive. Italian historians (such as General Pietro Colletta) deal with contemporary historical events with animosity. Translator is S. Horner; publisher is Constable.
“Domestic Annals of Scotland.” Saturday Review, 7, no. 185: (14 May 1859): 596–97.
Discusses the merits of social history of the period yet also addresses some of the difficulties a historian of this nature encounters. Reviewer commends the author, Robert Chambers, for his attempt at this type of history even if the style is slightly repetitive. Publisher is W. & R. Chambers.
“HISTOIRE DE MADAME DE MAINTENON.” Saturday Review, 7, no. 185: (14 May 1859): 597–98.
Makes use of previously withheld information and leaves questions about her up to the reader to answer. Author is Duc de Noailles.
“JAMES’S NAVAL HISTORY.” Saturday Review, 7, no. 187: (28 May 1859): 654–56.
Appears most seasonably at a time when attention is so strongly directed to the fleets.
Freeman, Edward Augustus.“Mediaeval London.” Saturday Review, 7, no. 188: (4 June 1859): 689–91.
Another volume of ancient documents and chronicles is beautifully edited (by Henry Thomas Riley) and contains many historians’ critical comments on the subject. It is a well rounded history of the period. Publisher is Longman.
“JAMES’S NAVAL HISTORY.” Saturday Review, 7, no. 189: (11 June 1859): 719–20.
Gives ample honour to courage and ‘good seamanship’ of sailors.
“KNIGHT’S HISTORY OF ENGLAND.” Saturday Review, 7, no. 189: (11 June 1859): 723–24.
Not readable, not suited to public taste, not instructive, and does not offer a thorough English history. .
Stephen, James Fitzjames.“ALISON’S HISTORY OF EUROPE.” Saturday Review, 7, no. 190: (18 June 1859): 755–56.
Marginally less scathing than other reviews of Archibald Alison’s work in the SR ('he possesses merits which are less disfigured than usual in this volume’). Stephen notes that he tries to offer causes for events and in the process, ‘perverts, misstates, and disregards facts.’ (Attribution Curran Index).
“THE TRANSMISSION OF ANCIENT BOOKS.” Saturday Review, 7, no. 191: (25 June 1859): 787–88.
This new edition of Isaac Taylor’s book is ingenious and interesting, unusually clear and acute, understands what historical evidence really is. Publisher is Jackson and Walford.
“THE LIFE OF CHARLES JAMES FOX.” Saturday Review, 8, no. 196: (30 July 1859): 131–32.
Best part of this second volume of Lord John Russell’s biography was the announcement that the next volume will actually contain biographical information on Fox. Publisher is Bentley.
Freeman, Edward Augustus.“MEMORIALS OF HENRY THE SEVENTH.” Saturday Review, 8, no. 198: (13 August 1859): 192–94.
The volume of chronicles edited by James Gairdner proves the reviewer’s theory that there are no interesting chronicles left unpublished , given that the focus of this biography is laughable. (Attribution Curran Index).
“JOHN MILTON.” Saturday Review, 8, no. 200: (27 August 1859): 255–57.
Shows the difference between this work of Thomas Keightley’s and that of David Masson, which has just come out on the same topic. States that Keightley’s account was more personal to Milton rather than to the times in which he lived.
“JULIUS CAESAR’S INVASION OF BRITAIN.” Saturday Review, 8, no. 200: (27 August 1859): 259–60.
Picks apart minute errors in Thomas Lewin’s book, such as the distance between two places. Publisher is Longman.
“HISTORY OF VICTORIA.” Saturday Review, 8, no. 203: (17 September 1859): 345–47.
Ill arranged, ill digested, and feebly written, with a narrow view. Author is Thomas McCombie; Australian publishers: Melbourne & Sydney: Sands and Kenny; London publishers: Chapman & Hall.
Freeman, Edward Augustus.“HOW TO WRITE HISTORY.” Saturday Review, 8, no. 204: (24 September 1859): 372–73.
Takes issue with John Brookes’s Manners and Customs of the English Nation and with poorly-written history in general. States that the work is dull and poorly written and that the author is “ very ignorant, and stupid and his enemies must have been delighted when he wrote a book.” Publisher is James Blackwood.
Cecil, Robert Arthur Talbot Gascoyne (Marquis of Salisbury).“The History of New England.” Saturday Review, 8, no. 205: (1 October 1859): 400–401.
Well-researched with a simple style Reviewer claims that John C. Palfrey’s only detriment is that he is like other ‘new school historians’ whose narratives are ‘tainted by advocacy.’
“JAMES’S NAVAL HISTORY.” Saturday Review, 8, no. 206: (8 October 1859): 422–24.
continuation.
Freeman, Edward Augustus.“YORK AND YORKSHIRE IN THE FIFTEENTH CENTURY.” Saturday Review, 8, no. 206: (8 October 1859): 427–28.
The content of this Surtees Society volume at first seems dull and uninviting but upon further examination it is full of instructive and curious matter. (Attribution Curran Index).
“JAMES’S NAVAL HISTORY.” Saturday Review, 8, no. 207: (15 October 1859): 453–55.
continuation.
“JAMES’S NAVAL HISTORY.” Saturday Review, 8, no. 208: (22 October 1859): 488–90.
continuation.
“VAUGHAN’S REVOLUTIONS IN ENGLISH HISTORY.” Saturday Review, 8, no. 209: (29 October 1859): 515–16.
Robert Vaughan’s work is judged sensible, valuable, and instructive.
“JAMES’S NAVAL HISTORY.” Saturday Review, 8, no. 211: (12 November 1859): 583–85.
continuation.
“THE LIFE OF CAMPBELL.” Saturday Review, 8, no. 212: (19 November 1859): 613–14.
Biography of unremarkable man (Thomas Campbell) by Cyrus Redding is far too long.
“HISTORICAL SCOTTISH RELICS.” Saturday Review, 8, no. 214: (3 December 1859): 679–80.
Review of a catalogue emerging from a meeting of the Archaeological Institute in Edinburgh. Too expensive to be a financial success.
Cecil, Robert Arthur Talbot Gascoyne (Marquis of Salisbury).“THE HISTORY OF BRAZIL.” Saturday Review, 8, no. 218: (31 December 1859): 815–16.
Review of a work in German by Heinrich von Handelmann. This ‘hybrid between a history and a pamphlet’ has been written with the emigration question in mind.
“TWO PARISH HISTORIES.” Saturday Review, 9, no. 220: (14 January 1860): 53–55.
States that Henry Alfred Napier is too imposing and discursive to be of general value, whereas the work of Henry George Davis deserves to be highly popular, useful to intelligent inhabitants of Knightsbridge, Belgravia and Pimlico.
“LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON.” Saturday Review, 9, no. 224: (11 February 1860): 182–83.
First of two notices. James Parton’s biography of Andrew Jackson imitates Carlyle both in style and, especially method; the results are deemed unfortunate. Publisher is Sampson, Low.
Freeman, Edward Augustus.“MORRIS’S LIFE OF ST. THOMAS BECKET.” Saturday Review, 9, no. 224: (11 February 1860): 187–88.
The Roman Catholic canon John Morris tells the story well and agreeably. Compares this to a life by the Protestant Canon James Craigie Robertson, also reviewed in SR (17 Dec. 1859).
Cecil, Robert Arthur Talbot Gascoyne (Marquis of Salisbury).“THE LIFE OF THE DUKE OF WELLINGTON.” Saturday Review, 9, no. 225: (18 February 1860): 215–16.
Thankless task, not true to character of Duke as his faults are slurred over and his virtues are extolled. Author is C. D. Yonge; publisher is Chapman and Hall. (Attribution Curran Index).
“THE PROBLEM OF THE PYRAMIDS.” Saturday Review, 9, no. 225: (18 February 1860): 216–17.
John Taylor’s book demonstrates that it is absurd to expect a nineteenth-century interpreter to equal the interpretations of an ancient Egyptian.
“LIFE OF SIR CHARLES BELL.” Saturday Review, 9, no. 224: (21 February 1860): 189–90.
Small volume by Amedee Pichot is acceptable and agreeable enough but contains more enthusiasm than knowledge.
Cecil, Robert Arthur Talbot Gascoyne (Marquis of Salisbury).“Diary of the American Revolution.” Saturday Review, 9, no. 227: (3 March 1860): 279–80.
Reviewer claims that the reprinted documents in this collection are valuable to the history student yet only ‘furnish the mere garnish of history.’ (Attribution Curran Index).
“English Biography.” Saturday Review, 9, no. 228: (10 March 1860): 301.
This essay discusses the merits of biography with respect to the discipline of history. ‘Biography, next to fiction, is the surest kind of writing to win the attention of all men.’ Challenges publishers to put together ‘a really good collection of short biographies of great Englishmen’ and notes that Canada and other colonies will be less likely to ‘diverge [from England] in feeling and thought’ if there are literary biographies of interest. Same goes for working-class readers.
Cecil, Robert Arthur Talbot Gascoyne (Marquis of Salisbury).“Von Sybel’s History of the French Revolution.” Saturday Review, 9, no. 228: (10 March 1860): 312–13.
Commends the author for his straightforward style and states it is unlike other histories of the same topic, which contain flowery language and embellishments. (Attribution Curran Index).
“LORD MACAULAY’S BIOGRAPHIES.” Saturday Review, 9, no. 230: (24 March 1860): 373–74.
Discusses Macaulay’s contribution to history and what a great loss his death was to the study of history.
“POLITICAL POEMS OF THE FOURTEENTH CENTURY.” Saturday Review, 9, no. 230: (24 March 1860): 377–78.
Well edited, instructive, and amusing collection in the Rolls Series, edited by Thomas Wright.
“HISTORICAL ALLIES.” Saturday Review, 9, no. 231: (31 March 1860): 394.
This essay discusses the history and importance of various British allies, including France and Germany.
“SECRETAN’S LIFE OF ROBERT NELSON.” Saturday Review, 9, no. 231: (31 March 1860): 408–9.
Too much praise and dwells too much on detail ; thus is wearisome and heavy.
“THE FRENCH REVOLUTION OF 1789.” Saturday Review, 9, no. 231: (31 March 1860): 407–8.
Impartial, graphic, and shows the French Revolution from the perspective of the lower classes. Discusses how John S. C. Abbott compares to and strays from other historians’ style. Publisher is New York: Harper & Brothers.
“THIERS ON THE FALL OF NAPOLEON.” Saturday Review, 9, no. 232: (7 April 1860): 436–37.
No writer has a more atheistical view of history, but Thiers is a literary genius; the narrative is powerful, easy and pure of style.
“MEMOIRS OF THE FIRST EARL OF SHAFTESBURY.” Saturday Review, 9, no. 233: (14 April 1860): 469–70.
William Dougal Christie belongs to new school of biographers as he has self-sacrificing devotion to historical accuracy and to the material presented.
“SIR ROBERT WILSON’S RUSSIAN JOURNAL.” Saturday Review, 9, no. 233: (14 April 1860): 471–72.
New and important contribution to history of the period.
“FILIPPO STROZZI.” Saturday Review, 9, no. 235: (28 April 1860): 534–36.
Labour of work paid off as this book by T. Adolphus Trollope is pleasant reading for ‘friends of modern liberty’ and contributes to understanding of past and present Italian history. Publisher is Chapman and Hall.
“LIFE OF GENERAL JACKSON.” Saturday Review, 9, no. 236: (5 May 1860): 571–73.
Second notice of Parton’s biography. Clearly presents hero-worshipping .
“FROUDE’S HISTORY OF ENGLAND.-VOLS. V. AND VI.” Saturday Review, 9, no. 237: (12 May 1860): 608–9.
Scathing review notes that Froude’s "merits are picturesqueness, a clear and graceful, though somewhat effeminate style, and an insight into the varieties of character. . . . His demerits are a more than feminine fancifulness, and a more than feminine lack of justice, ... an ignorance of collateral subjects . . . and of history other than that of the particular country and period on which he is engaged.
“RAWLINSON’S HERODOTUS.” Saturday Review, 9, no. 237: (12 May 1860): 610–12.
Admirable and impartial.
“CUNNINGHAM’S CHURCH HISTORY OF SCOTLAND.” Saturday Review, 9, no. 238: (19 May 1860): 646–47.
Fair, candid, grave; tone good and honourable. .
Freeman, Edward Augustus.“BARTHOLOMEW COTTON’S HISTORY.” Saturday Review, 9, no. 240: (2 June 1860): 715–16.
Edited for the Rolls Series by Henry Richards Luard. Valuable, as it contains contemporary narrative of part of the 13th century which illustrates medieval notions of literary property. (Attribution Curran Index).
Freeman, Edward Augustus.“LAMARTINE’S ‘MARY STUART.’” Saturday Review, 9, no. 242: (16 June 1860): 777–78.
Pretty and pleasantly written but adds nothing new.
Freeman, Edward Augustus.“MRS. THOMSON’S LIFE OF GEORGE VILLIERS.” Saturday Review, 9, no. 243: (23 June 1860): 815–16.
Discusses how women write biographies and compares the author (Katherine [Mrs A. T.] Thomson) only to other ‘half-learned’ female writers.
“The Life of Sir Henry Havelock.” Saturday Review, 9, no. 243: (23 June 1860): 816–17.
Biography of the hero of the Indian Empire, by John Clark Marshman. A ‘spirited story’. Publisher is Longman.
“MASSEY’S HISTORY OF ENGLAND-VOL III.” Saturday Review, 10, no. 245: (7 July 1860): 18–19.
Sensible and candid and the period examined is remarkable. .
“BONNECHOSE’S HISTORY OF ENGLAND.” Saturday Review, 10, no. 248: (28 July 1860): 115–16.
Comments on French historiography in general and this work by Emile de Bonnechose in particular. Paris publisher is Didier et Co.
“THE HISTORY OF FRANCE.” Saturday Review, 10, no. 250: (11 August 1860): 177–79.
Not a philosophical nor an original book ‘though we readily admit its merit as an elaborate compilation, and its value as a repository of historical facts.’ Author Parke Godwin is new to the reviewer; publisher is Sampson Low; New York publisher Harper & Brothers.
“THE WARS OF THE EIGHTEENTH CENTURY.” Saturday Review, 10, no. 252: (25 August 1860): 244–45.
First of several reviews of various volumes. Sir Edward Cust’s book does good service to the British Army and the nation as a whole. Publisher is Mitchell’s Military Library.
“GERMAN PICTURES OF OLD ENGLISH HISTORY.” Saturday Review, 10, no. 254: (8 September 1860): 305–6.
Reinhold Pauli tends to lean toward philosophical views, but he sketches characters admirably. Book is in German; publisher Williams & Norgate.
Freeman, E. A.“JUSTICE UNDER THE TUDORS.” Saturday Review, 10, no. 255: (15 September 1860): 327–28.
Discusses the invalid sources and other problems with Froude’s work and with Charles Knight’s Popular History of England. (Attribution Curran Index).
Freeman, Edward Augustus.“KETT’S REBELLION IN NORFOLK.” Saturday Review, 10, no. 255: (15 September 1860): 338–39.
Reviewer thinks the author, the Rev. F. W. Russell, failed in this book in his aspiration to do the work of a historian; he remains ‘a zealous and painstaking antiquary’. Publisher is Longman and William Penny. (Attribution Curran Index).
“SHARPE’S HISTORY OF EGYPT.” Saturday Review, 10, no. 255: (15 September 1860): 336–37.
Useful, plain and straightforward. Useful to the unlearned. Author is Samuel Sharpe; publisher is Moxon & Co.
“THE WARS OF THE EIGHTEENTH CENTURY.” Saturday Review, 10, no. 255: (15 September 1860): 337–38.
Second notice of Cust’s first volume says it should be read by every officer of the army.
“FORBES’S HISTORY OF CHESS.” Saturday Review, 10, no. 256: (22 September 1860): 368–69.
Author is Duncan Forbes; he is diligent and a distinguished authority, but lacks literary ability and his book is disfigured by ‘trivial political and personal allusions, couched in a tone particularly feminine’, Publisher is Allen and Co.
“THE WARS OF THE EIGHTEENTH CENTURY.-VOL. II.” Saturday Review, 10, no. 260: (20 October 1860): 490–91.
This is a second notice of Cust’s second volume, continuing from 13 October.
“BUTT’S HISTORY OF ITALY.” Saturday Review, 10, no. 265: (24 November 1860): 664–65.
First notice. Isaac Butt’s book is useful, at least for the general reader; it provides clearness of conception. Publisher is Chapman and Hall.
“Butt’s History of Italy.” Saturday Review, 10, no. 266: (1 December 1860): 697–99.
Second notice. The reviewer offers little critique of the book yet relays details about the subject and uses Butt’s narrative to support his own claims.
“Lorimer’s Scottish Reformation.” Saturday Review, 10, no. 270: (29 December 1860): 843–44.
Criticizes the author for writing the volume in a ‘narrow, sectarian and unphilosophical spirit.’ States the book is arbitrarily organized and one-sided.
“Bollaert’s Antiquities of South America.” Saturday Review, 11, no. 271: (5 January 1861): 22–23.
Reviewer states that, while the volume proves that the author is a ‘painstaking and intelligent observer,’ the book is not well-written.
“M. THIERS AND THE EMPEROR OF THE FRENCH.” Saturday Review, 11, no. 271: (5 January 1861): 7–8.
Comments on rumours of Thiers taking office under the government of France.
“Home Life of English Ladies in the Seventeenth Century.” Saturday Review, 11, no. 272: (12 January 1861): 48–49.
Reviewer states that ‘ it is a tedious stringing together of biographical facts by obvious comments and commonplace reflections.’ The subject, though interesting, is not done justice. ‘By the author of Magdalen Stafford’. Publisher is Bell and Daldy.
“HESSEY’S BAMPTON LECTURES.” Saturday Review, 11, no. 273: (19 January 1861): 72–73.
Useful to a reader of ordinary education and intelligence.
Freeman, Edward Augustus.“Hook’s Lives of the Archbishops of Canterbury.” Saturday Review, 11, no. 274: (26 January 1861): 98–100.
Well-written history of the church; even though a professional historian might have taken a more critical approach, the average reader will learn more from this book than any other on the subject. (Attribution Curran Index).
“EDMUND BURKE.” Saturday Review, 11, no. 276: (9 February 1861): 143–44.
Review of third and last volume of Thomas Macknight’s biography. Too long, unsatisfactory, and incomplete. Tone is reminiscent of the Cockney school of comic and sentimental satire, which does not suit this higher class of literature.
“KEIGHTLEY’S CRUSADERS.” Saturday Review, 11, no. 276: (9 February 1861): 147–49.
Good service to historical literature but unreadable for young readers and adults who do not have the leisure to read lengthy works.
Cecil, Robert Arthur Talbot Gascoyne (Marquis of Salisbury).“RANKE’S ENGLISH HISTORY.” Saturday Review, 11, no. 276: (9 February 1861): 145–46.
This review of the German-language edition published by D. Nutt characterizes the author as ‘cautious, critical . . . distrustful of large views and hasty generalizations’ and the book ‘with its patient analysis of facts and its want of imaginative grasp’, still a splendid contribution. A second notice appears March 9th. (Attribution Curran Index).
“THE LIFE AND TIMES OF PALEARIO.” Saturday Review, 11, no. 276: (9 February 1861): 149–50.
Strong writer, candid; but this study of Italian reformers in the 16th century demonstrates a bias against the Roman Catholic Church. Author is M. Yonge; publisher is Bell & Daldy.
“The Spanish Conquest in America. Vol 4.” Saturday Review, 11: (2 March 1861): 222–24.
This review of the conclusion of Arthur Helps’s work notes that while this is not as entertaining as the previous volumes, the whole work’s strength is the author’s analysis of the material, which focuses on the relationships among Spanish, native-American and African-American peoples.
Sandars, Thomas Collett.“Buckle’s History of Civilization in England. Vol. 2.” Saturday Review, 11, no. 292: (1 June 1861): 561–62.
Thomas Henry Buckle’s history continues to be readable, energetic and full of intriguing ideas. But it is ‘disfigured by little flourishes of animosity’. Published by J. W. Parker.
“HISTORY AND ARTICLES OF MASONRY.” Saturday Review, 13, no. 323: (4 January 1862): 23–24.
Edition of a primary document held in the British Museum; by Matthew Cooke; publisher is Bro. Richard Spencer. The review ridicules the practices and beliefs of the freemasons.
“ALISON’S LIVES OF LORD CASTLEREAGH AND SIR C. STEWART.” Saturday Review, 13, no. 325: (18 January 1862): 79–81.
Interesting and simply narrated.
Freeman, E. A.“ENGLISH DOMESTIC MANNERS BEFORE THE NORMAN CONQUEST.” Saturday Review, 13, no. 325: (18 January 1862): 77–78.
Thomas Wright’s book is well-illustrated, entertaining, and valuable. A second notice appeared 15 February 1862. (Attribution Curran Index).
“HISTORY OF PRINTING IN FRANCE.” Saturday Review, 13, no. 325: (18 January 1862): 78–79.
The book under review is a Histoire du Livre en France by Edmond Werdet (Second part; published in Paris by Dentu). ‘The very French title of this book does not at once carry its meaning with it to an English reader. The “History of the Book” means nothing else than a history of the crafts of the printer and bookseller, with occasional notices of their kinsman, the binder. What the “Transformation of the Book” may be we can only guess; most likely it is an Imperial way of expressing the change from written to printed books.’ Despite its dismissive note, the review observes that the book contains ‘a great deal of curious matter’.
“ROMAN HISTORY AT ROME.” Saturday Review, 13, no. 325: (18 January 1862): 74–75.
Allows readers to easily learn about the vestiges of Old Rome which survive below the new Rome. Book is in French; author is J. J. Ampere; published Paris: Michel Levy Freres; London: Jeffs.
“CANADA-PAST AND PRESENT.” Saturday Review, 13, no. 326: (25 January 1862): 95–96.
This essay discusses the interaction between the British and the Americans in the war of 1812 and throughout the nineteenth century, and the changes that took place in Canada as a result of the introduction of the railway and telegraph.
Cecil, Robert Arthur Talbot Gascoyne (Marquis of Salisbury).“LORD CRANBORNE’S HISTORICAL ESSAYS.” Saturday Review, 13, no. 326: (25 January 1862): 105–6.
Of great merit, the essays cover a wide array of countries; the style is admirable and the work is accurate. (Attribution Curran Index).
“THE CAMPAIGN OF 1799.” Saturday Review, 13, no. 329: (15 February 1862): 191–92.
This account of the Duke of York’s campaign in Holland in 1799 (‘By a Subaltern’) is clear and satisfactory.
Freeman, Edward Augustus.“HOOK’S LIVES OF THE ARCHBISHOPS OF CANTERBURY.” Saturday Review, 13, no. 330: (22 February 1862): 215–16.
In this latest in his series of biographies, Walter Farquar Hook ‘sees the events of the twelfth century through the spectacles of modern Anglicanism’. (Attribution Curran Index).
Freeman, Edward Augustus.“FINLAY’S HISTORY OF THE GREEK REVOLUTION.” Saturday Review, 13, no. 331: (1 March 1862): 242–44.
High praise for the final volume of George Finlay’s history (2 vol, published by Blackwood). Judged remarkable and original; not likely to become popular but useful to historical inquirers. Freeman compares it with several other histories of Greece. (Attribution Curran Index).
“HISTORY OF SPAIN.” Saturday Review, 13, no. 331: (1 March 1862): 248–49.
Obvious political views displayed which date to Modesto Lafuente’s earlier identity as a journalist; now, however, he has appeared as an historian. The work is correct, uses a pure style, offers a variety of subjects which are well distributed and skillfully connected.
Cecil, Robert Arthur Talbot Gascoyne (Marquis of Salisbury).“THE HISTORY OF THE DANCE.” Saturday Review, 13, no. 331: (1 March 1862): 247–48.
This book in the German language, by Albert Czerwinski, offers a tolerably clear view of the dances of various nations. Published in Leipzig: Weber; and London: Williams and Norgate.
Freeman, Edward Augustus.“SALVERTE’S HISTORY OF NAMES.” Saturday Review, 13, no. 333: (15 March 1862): 304–5.
Accurate but shows little critical power and is not well translated.
“THE WARS OF CANADA.” Saturday Review, 13, no. 333: (15 March 1862): 307–8.
The book is a reprint of a work commissioned by the Duke of Wellington in 1826 to report on the state of the Canada-US frontier; author is Major-General Sir James Carmichael-Smyth. Edited by his son, Sir James Carmichael. Publisher is Tinsley Brothers.
“ARNOLD’S HISTORY OF LORD DALHOUSIE’S ADMINISTRATION.” Saturday Review, 13, no. 334: (22 March 1862): 333–34.
Full and lively descriptions. Author is Edwin Arnold; publisher is Saunders, Otley, & Co.
“HISTORY OF THE OPERA.” Saturday Review, 13, no. 339: (26 April 1862): 481–82.
Pleasant and readable form and pleasant style. Author is Sutherland Edwards; publisher is Allen and Co.
“LUDLOW’S HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES.” Saturday Review, 13, no. 339: (26 April 1862): 474–75.
Partisan writer who tends to select topics that are current and discuss why they are popular.
“THE LIFE OF THE DUKE OF WELLINGTON.” Saturday Review, 13, no. 339: (26 April 1862): 478–79.
Book is successful, makes good use of materials, is accurate and complete. Full title given as Gleig and Brialmont’s Life of Wellington. 2nd Ed, condensed by the Rev. G. R. Gleig; published Longmans. However the review refers only to Gleig. See above for a review of Brialmont in French, 24 October 1857.
Merivale, Charles.“JOHN ROGERS.” Saturday Review, 13, no. 340: (3 May 1862): 505–6.
An American biographer, Joseph L. Chester, has written about the compiler of the first authorised English Bible. Review describes it as enthusiastic and bringing out individuality and spirit of the subject, while commenting in passing on the current conflict in the United States. (Attribution Curran Index).
Freeman, E. A.“OLIVER’S HISTORY OF EXETER.” Saturday Review, 13, no. 340: (3 May 1862): 508–9.
The Rev. George Oliver’s book is ‘not local enough’ and thus not what a history of an ancient city should be; rather it offers a broader history of England. Exeter publisher is William Roberts; London publisher is Longman. (Attribution Curran Index).
“THOMAS JEFFERSON.” Saturday Review, 13, no. 341: (10 May 1862): 536–37.
This biography in the French language is compiled with care and skill. Author is Cornelis De Witt; Paris publisher is Didier et Cie.
“THEBES AND ITS TOMBS.” Saturday Review, 13, no. 342: (17 May 1862): 565–66.
This much-anticipated work by A. Henry Rhind has a lot of material, but nothing to say and is not well-researched; overall of not much interest. Publisher is Longman.
“THE TRAIL OF HISTORY.” Saturday Review, 13, no. 343: (24 May 1862): 596–97.
The author, the Rev. T. M. Merriman of Vermont ‘has undertaken to rearrange the history of the world.’ He attempts to show Sunday School children that every great event before Christ has a corresponding event after. Ridiculed for being pretentious and for religious periodization.
Freeman, Edward Augustus.“CALENDAR OF DOMESTIC STATE PAPERS, 1631-3.” Saturday Review, 13, no. 346: (14 June 1862): 690–91.
This particular volume not deal with any exciting matters. Note that the SR reviews numerous volumes of the State Papers Domestic.
“PAUL LOUIS COURIER.” Saturday Review, 13, no. 348: (28 June 1862): 748–49.
Comments on the complete works in French of Paul Louis Courier, a new edition published by Didot in Paris. The work throws light on France in the period 1815-1825.