Books matching: scholarly references
17 result(s)
Readers also searched for:
- #1
M.R. James's 'Collected Ghost Stories' is a hefty volume of chilling tales that explore the eerie intersection of the academic world and supernatural occurrences. Set mostly in England, these stories often feature subtle, implied horror rooted in historical artifacts and manuscripts. James's writing style is elegant and understated, creating an atmosphere of lurking menace and dread that is both captivating and chilling. The stories range from encounters with ghosts in English manors to disturbing discoveries of haunted objects, all masterfully crafted to evoke a sense of unease and fear.
ST. BERTRAND DE COMMINGES* is a decayed town on the spurs of the Pyrenees, not very far from Toulouse, and still nearer to Bagnères-de-Luchon. It was the site of a bishopric until the Revolution, and ... - #2
The 'The Marx-Engels Reader' by Karl Marx is a comprehensive collection of works that delve into the core concepts of Marxism. The book covers a wide range of topics including the materialist conception of history, the Paris Commune, the theory of surplus value in capitalism, and the idea of working-class revolution. It presents Marx and Engels' ideas on social relations, economic structures, political superstructures, and the need for a practical movement to bring about societal change. The writing style is described as thought-provoking, abstract, and less authoritarian than expected, offering a deep insight into Marx's philosophy in his own words.
- #3
'The Pendragon Legend' by Antal Szerb is a gothic murder mystery with occult elements, set in a Welsh castle and revolving around the adventures of János Bátky, a Hungarian academic. The novel combines elements of popular genres such as gothic novels and murder mysteries, with a touch of satire. Through the eyes of the narrator, readers are taken on a journey filled with strange occurrences, secret passages, stolen manuscripts, and supernatural elements, all wrapped in a veil of mystery and intrigue. Szerb's writing style is characterized by a mix of erudition, wit, and self-effacing humor, making the story both entertaining and engaging.
Strictly speaking, I suppose all my stories begin with the fact that I was born in Budapest and that soon after—though it escaped my notice at the time—I was given the name I still bear today, János B... The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire by Edward Gibbon is a monumental six-volume work that traces the trajectory of Western Civilization from the height of the Roman Empire to the fall of Byzantium. Gibbon, a sterling prose stylist, offers a narrative voice that is dense yet rewarding, with a focus on the inexorable collapse of the Roman Empire and the influence of Christianity. The book is known for its magnificent scholarship, historical scope, and Gibbon's sharp wit.
In the second century of the Christian æra, the empire of Rome comprehended the fairest part of the earth, and the most civilized portion of mankind. The frontiers of that extensive monarchy were guar...- #5
Italian Folktales by Italo Calvino is a collection of 200 folktales from various regions of Italy, each story offering insight into the Italian character and culture. The tales range from familiar themes found in other cultures to unique narratives featuring kings, peasants, tricksters, saints, and fantastical creatures. Calvino's writing style is described as masterful, luring readers into a world of metamorphoses and enchanting them with plots that encompass the complexity of human experience.
A king had his crier announce in the town squares that whoever found his missing daughter would be rewarded with a fortune. But the announcement brought no results, since no one had any idea of the gi... - #6
Set in Washington D.C.'s University of the Archangels and St. John the Divine, "Waking the Moon" follows a group of college freshmen who stumble upon an ancient order known as the Benandanti. The order holds a deep control over society and recruits students, but when a mysterious archaeological treasure is discovered, it unleashes the ancient moon goddess onto the world. The story spans over twenty years, intertwining themes of mystery, horror, and feminism while delivering a complex narrative reminiscent of Stephen King's style. The book masterfully weaves together pagan mysteries, academic intrigue, and sinister conspiracies, creating a taproot text for the recent wave of urban fantasies.
I MET THEM IN Magic, Witchcraft, and Religion. A fitting place, that magician’s grove within the enchanted forest that was the Divine, where Balthazar Warnick presided at his podium and wore a hand-pa... - #7
"Eaters of the Dead" by Michael Crichton is a unique blend of historical fiction and fantasy, drawing inspiration from the Anglo-Saxon Beowulf saga and the real-life accounts of an Arab traveler who encountered Vikings. The book takes readers on a journey through 10th-century Scandinavia, where the protagonist, Ibn Fadlan, finds himself embroiled in a Viking quest to vanquish a legendary monster. Crichton's writing style seamlessly weaves together elements of adventure, historical accuracy, and cultural exploration, creating a riveting tale that challenges perceptions of the Viking way of life.
The narrative of "Eaters of the Dead" is both educational and entertaining, offering readers a fresh perspective on Viking culture and customs. Through the eyes of Ibn Fadlan, the story delves into themes of culture shock, heroism, and the clash of civilizations, culminating in a thrilling reimagining of the Beowulf legend. Crichton's meticulous research and attention to detail shine through in his writing, providing a rich tapestry of historical context that immerses readers in a world of mystery, magic, and ancient battles.
IN THIS MANNER WAS I PREVENTED FROM CONTINUING MY travels to the kingdom of the Yiltawar, King of the Saqaliba, and thus was I unable to discharge the trust of al-Muqtadir, Commander of the Faithful a... - #8
Robert O. Paxton's 'The Anatomy of Fascism' is a slim, eminently readable work that delves into the political philosophical question of what fascism truly is. Paxton meticulously examines fascist movements in Europe and beyond, identifying the tropes and similitudes that characterize a fascist movement in action. Through a scholarly and highly perceptive analysis, the book traces the origins of fascism from its roots in the nineteenth century to its manifestation in Italy and Germany from 1919 to 1945. Paxton's writing style is accessible to both academic and non-academic readers, eschewing theoretical language in favor of a cautionary analysis supported by eminent authorities.
Fascism was the major political innovation of the twentieth century, and the source of much of its pain. The other major currents of modern Western political culture—conservatism, liberalism, socialis... 'Norse Mythology: A Guide to Gods, Heroes, Rituals, and Beliefs' by John Lindow offers readers a comprehensive insight into Norse mythology and culture. It serves as a reference tool for those interested in delving deep into the world of Norse myths, providing detailed information on gods, goddesses, rituals, and beliefs. The writing style is a mix of educational content and encyclopedia-style entries, making it a valuable resource for both beginners and experienced practitioners in the realm of Norse mythology.
is praised for its scholarly approach, non-biased information, and extensive coverage of Norse mythology. Readers appreciate the detailed entries on various mythological figures, themes, and places, as well as the author's ability to present information in a clear and accessible manner. Additionally, the inclusion of illustrations and further reading sections in each entry enhances the educational value of the book, making it a valuable addition to any Norse mythology library.
- #10
'The Secret Teachings of All Ages' by Manly P. Hall delves into profound topics such as metaphysical truths, ancient wisdom, and symbolic philosophies. Through a blend of esoteric, alchemical, and occult themes, the author explores the intricate connections between various religious and philosophical traditions. Hall's writing style is described as open, fact-based, and thought-provoking, inviting readers to make their own connections and interpretations based on the wealth of information presented. offers a deep dive into the inner workings of historical figures, symbols, and ideologies, providing readers with a comprehensive guide to understanding the hidden teachings of the ages.