The Library of Alexandria is an independent small business publishing house. We specialize in bringing back to live rare, historical and ancient Books. This includes manuscripts such as: classical fiction, philosophy, science, Religion, folklore, mythology, history, literature, politics and sacred texts, in addition to Secret and esoteric subjects, such as: occult, freemasonry, alchemy, hermetic, shamanism and ancient knowledge. Our Books are available in digital format. We have approximat...

In "The Cries of London," John Thomas Smith masterfully captures the vibrant tapestry of 19th-century London life through the compelling medium of street cries. This richly illustrated work combines a unique blend of socio-cultural commentary and artistic representation, presenting the sounds and sights of the city'Äôs marketplaces and streets. Smith employs a vivid literary style, interweaving anecdotes and vivid descriptions that immerse the reader in the bustling atmosphere of London'Äô...

This multigenerational memoir sketches the lives of three generations of the author’s family that were involved with some of the most profound issues of the twentieth century. Smith’s paternal grandfather was present at the creation of General Motors Corporation and served as its Vice President and General Counsel. His maternal grandfather, William G. Maguire, was an entrepreneur and natural gas pipeline pioneer with a visionary grasp of natural gas’s significance in the twentieth century ...

William Thackeray called it "the most laughable story that has ever been written since the goodly art of novel-writing began." As a group of travellers visit places in England and Scotland, they provide through satire and wit a vivid and detailed picture of the contemporary social and political scene. ABOUT THE SERIES: For over 100 years Oxford World's Classics has made available the widest range of literature from around the globe. Each affordable volume reflects Oxford's commitment to sc...

The Father of English painting, William Hogarth aspired to an art that would engage and delight ordinary citizens, rather than educated connoisseurs and critics, whom he despised. He achieved this ambition by creating a new type of painting, a comic strip-like series of pictures called ‘modern moral subjects’. Famous examples such as ‘A Harlot's Progress’, ‘A Rake's Progress’ and ‘Marriage A-la-Mode’ were reproduced en masse as popular engravings and were accessible to all. His wor...

The Expedition of Humphry Clinker was the last of the picaresque novels of Tobias Smollett, published in London on 17 June 1771 (just three months before Smollett's death), and is considered by many to be his best and funniest work. It is an epistolary novel, presented in the form of letters written by six characters: Matthew Bramble, a Welsh Squire; his sister Tabitha; their niece Lydia and nephew Jeremy Melford; Tabitha's maid Winifred Jenkins; and Lydia's suitor Wilson.Much of t...

Brought up to enter a learned profession, Henry Melton very successfully overcame his ‘aversion to going into trade’ and became hatter to the Prince of Wales. First published in 1865, Hints on Hats is a delightfully idiosyncratic account of Melton’s rise from opening a shop (having seen an opportunity for wealth and fame) to hatter to Edward VII and Prince Albert, whose patronage he was quick to exploit. First published in 1865, this book is part of the V&A Fashion Perspectives Series. Sel...

In "A History of the Cries of London, Ancient and Modern," Charles Hindley presents a captivating exploration of the auditory landscape of London, intertwining historical narrative with rich anecdotes. This unique text serves as both a social history and a literary curiosity, reflecting the bustling life of the city through the distinctive cries of its vendors. Employing a blend of vivid descriptions, Hindley brings forth the cultural significance of these cries, highlighting their evoluti...

"The Social History of Smoking" by George Latimer Apperson explores the cultural and historical significance of smoking throughout various societies. Apperson delves into the origins of tobacco use, tracing its journey from indigenous rituals to its widespread adoption in Europe and beyond. The book examines how smoking has influenced social interactions, economic practices, and even health perceptions over time. Through a detailed narrative, Apperson highlights the complex relationship be...

Many of the earliest books, particularly those dating back to the 1900s and before, are now extremely scarce and increasingly expensive. We are republishing these classic works in affordable, high quality, modern editions, using the original text and artwork.

This edition features a linked Table of Contents and IndexCONTENTS (abridged list)CHAPTER I.Origin of Fairs—Charter Fairs at Winchester and Chester—Croydon Fairs—Fairs in the Metropolis—Origin of Bartholomew Fair—Disputes between the Priors and the Corporation—The Westminster Fairs—Southwark Fair—Stepney Fair—Ceremonies observed in opening Fairs—Walking the Fair at Wolverhampton—The Key of the Fair at Croydon—Proclamation of Bartholomew Fair...CHAPTER XI...

In "A Walk from London to Fulham," Thomas Crofton Croker invites readers on a leisurely exploration of the English countryside, combining vivid descriptions with a meditative narrative style. The book serves as both a travelogue and a personal reflection, encapsulating the social and cultural tapestry of early 19th century England. Through meticulous observations and whimsical anecdotes, Croker artfully portrays the transition from urban London to the picturesque charm of Fulham, illustrat...