Rowlandson's Oxford

A. Hamilton Gibbs

Sep 2022 · DigiCat

About this ebook

A. Hamilton Gibbs' 'Rowlandson's Oxford' is a stirring reflection on the lifeblood of Oxford University as experienced in the 18th century. Replete with historical insight, this scholarly piece beautifully entwines the author's own reverent memoirs with a portrayal of the university's rigorous academic atmosphere and boisterous social life. Gibbs, by employing a literary style that draws upon his evocative personal experiences and a rich tapestry of colloquial anecdotes, effectively resurrects the aura and essence of Oxford during a period steeped in tradition and intellectual vigor. The narrative is set within the broader context of England's educational preeminence, serving as a cultural cornerstone and a pivotal setting for the maturation of many influential minds. Gibbs' 'Rowlandson's Oxford' invites the reader to peer through the windows of time into the quads and cloisters that continue to echo with scholarly pursuits and youthful endeavors, framing a detailed snapshot of a bygone era with remarkable clarity and nostalgia. A. Hamilton Gibbs was an English American novelist with a foot planted in each world — old and new. His connection to Oxford was not purely academic but deeply personal, having witnessed its grandeur firsthand. The intimacy of his relationship with the university is palpable in his writing, as he weaves his intimate recollections with historical fidelity. This proximity grants a level of detail and authenticity that only someone who has shared in the full-bodied experience of 'Alma Mater' could convey. The vividness of his narrative serves as testament to the enduring impact of his formative years at Oxford, suggesting that the work may be an attempt to immortalize the university experience that held such a sway over him. Recommended for historians, Anglophiles, and anyone with a penchant for academia's illustrious past, 'Rowlandson's Oxford' is more than a historical document—it is a heartfelt homage to the indelible legacy of one of the world's most venerable institutions of higher learning. Gibbs' affectionate account will undoubtedly resonate with those who have themselves been molded by their time at university, while providing insightful commentary on the social and educational fabric that shapes scholars. This book is a must-read for those yearning to understand the profound influence that Oxford has wielded over the centuries, both within its hallowed walls and beyond.

About the author

A. Hamilton Gibbs, an often overlooked yet distinguished author from the early 20th century, has made notable contributions to the canon of English literature with his charming and nostalgic evocations of English life. Arthur Hamilton Gibbs (1888-1964), better known as A. Hamilton Gibbs, was born into a family of literary talents; his brothers Cosmo and Sir Philip Gibbs were also accomplished writers. A. Hamilton's literary style is characterized by its vivid descriptions, wittiness, and a profound sense of tradition, which often reflect the societal fabric and values of his time. His novel 'Rowlandson's Oxford,' an intricate depiction of the academic and social life at the University of Oxford, stands as a testimony to his narrative abilities and his keen observe of English customs and education. Beyond this work, Gibbs authored several other books, including 'Soundings' (1925) and 'The Persistent Lovers' (1928), which further established his reputation as a storyteller adept at capturing the nuances of the human experience. Despite not being as widely remembered as some of his contemporaries, Gibbs's literary contributions offer a unique window into the mores and preoccupations of the early 20th-century England, making his works valuable to scholars and readers interested in the period.