The History of London by Walter Besant

Walter Besant was a novelist and historian, and his topographical and historical writings, ranging from prehistoric times to the nineteenth century, were probably best known through the detailed 10-volume Survey of London published after his death. This earlier single volume covers, in less depth, the whole period from prehistory until the 19th century. The book appears originally to have been written for boys, and, indeed, the chapters are called “Lessons”. However, it is a very readable history and provides a fascinating insight into both London’s past and the government of the City at the time the book was written (1894).

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Episodes

Tuesday Jan 02, 2024

The History of London by Walter Besant

Episodes

01 – Lessons 1 – 2: The Foundation of London (I – II)

02 – Lessons 3 – 4: Roman London (I – II)

03 – Lessons 5 – 7: After the Romans (I – III)

04 – Lessons 8 – 10: The First and Second Saxon Settlements, and The Anglo-Saxon Citizen

05 – Lessons 11 – 12: The Wall of London, and Norman London

06 – Lessons 13 – 14: Fitzstephen’s Account of the City (I – II)

07 – Lessons 15 – 18: London Bridge (I – II), and The Tower of London (I – II)

08 – Lessons 19 – 20: The Pilgrims, and St. Bartholomew’s Hospital

09 – Lessons 21 – 22: The Terror of Leprosy, and The Terror of Famine

10 – Lessons 23 – 25: St. Paul’s Cathedral (I – II), and Paul’s Churchyard