Edward Palmer Thompson Books

This pioneering book examines different aspects of the inheritance customs in rural Western Europe in the pre-industrial age: for families and whole societies, the roles of lawyers in reducing them to a common system, and the recurring debate on the merits of various inheritance customs in shaping particular kinds of society. At first sight the study of inheritance customs may appear to be a dull affair, concerned with outdated practices of hair-splitting lawyers; certainly, little academic interest has been shown in the subject. Yet inheritance customs are vital means for the reproduction of the social system, by the transmission of property and other rights through the family. Various family structures and social arrangements are linked by different means of inheritance. This book will interest a wide range of historians, students, postgraduates and teachers alike, whether they are concerned with social, economic, demographic or legal history, in the medieval, early modern or modern periods, and whether their interests are directed to England or other countries of Western Europe; it will also be valuable to social anthropologists, sociologists and historians of ideas. A comprehensive glossary of technical terms has been added for the non-specialist

In this interdisciplinary study, the social historian E.P. Thompson contends that most of the assumptions scholars have made about William Blake, the thinker and poet, are misleading and unfounded. The learned tradition that later adopted Blake as a canonical author was important only as the tradition against which he worked.

First published in 1905 this book by William Carter Thomson offers the reader an insight into the workings of an American travelling circus at the beginning of the 20th century. He gives an account of the daily routine of the troupe whilst on tour and during the winter 'off season', explains the jargon peculiar to circus life, describes methods of transporation, including that of the performing animals, and offers many amusing anecdotes connected with the circus world and its history. A sample itinerary shows that on a tour from April-November the circus will travel just over 11,500 miles, visiting 167 towns spread across 26 states and provinces, travelling by both rail and ferry. This edition is illustrated with 19 black and white photographs integrated with the text.

A seminal text on the history of the working class by one of the most important intellectuals of the twentieth century. During the formative years of the Industrial Revolution, English workers and artisans claimed a place in society that would shape the following centuries. But the capitalist elite did not form the working class—the workers shaped their own creations, developing a shared identity in the process. Despite their lack of power and the indignity forced upon them by the upper classes, the working class emerged as England’s greatest cultural and political force. Crucial to contemporary trends in all aspects of society, at the turn of the nineteenth century, these workers united into the class that we recognize all across the Western world today. E.P. Thompson’s magnum opus, The Making of the English Working Class defined early twentieth-century English social and economic history, leading many to consider him Britain’s greatest postwar historian. Its publication in 1963 was highly controversial in academia, but the work has become one of the most influential social commentaries every written.

From the world's most respected gardening organization, a new, soon-to-be classic guide to successfully using color in the home garden.

This classic collection of essays by E.P. Thompson, one of England’s most renowned socialist voices, remains a staple text in the history of Marxist theory. The bulk of the book is dedicated to Thompson’s famous polemic against Louis Althusser and what he considers the reductionism and authoritarianism of Althusserian structuralism. In lively and erudite prose, Thompson argues for a self-critical and unapologetically humanist Marxist tradition. Also included are three essays of considerable importance to the development of the New Left.

Customs in Common is a remarkable sequel to E.P. Thompson's influential work on social history. It explores the complex culture from which working-class institutions emerged in England, highlighting the traditions and customs that the new working class sought to preserve into Victorian times. Through years of research, Thompson examines the gradual decline of cultural customs amid the upheavals of the eighteenth century. As villagers faced a legal system increasingly hostile to tradition, they resisted change, embodying a "rebelliousness in defense of custom." Unlike some historians who view the riotous actions of peasants merely as issues for authorities, Thompson argues that the true problem lay with the rulers and landowners, as the vibrant culture of the people predated the establishment of working-class consciousness. Utilizing a diverse range of sources, Thompson decodes the symbolism of shaming rituals, such as "rough music," and practices like "wife sale." He also highlights the active role of women in food riots from the sixteenth century, offering insights into gender relations of the era. This work is essential for anyone interested in English history and holds particular relevance today as traditional economies give way to market economies in the developing world. Thompson's rich scholarship provides valuable perspectives for understanding contemporary global changes.

The author modestly describes this book as `a fairly complete account of the history and progress of Greek and Latin palaeography, especially in its literary aspect, from the earliest periods represented by surviving manuscripts down to the close of the fifteenth century'.

Focusing on the intellectual influences of the English Romantic movement, the book explores the works of prominent figures like Wordsworth and Coleridge, alongside lesser-known authors such as Godwin and Thelwall. E. P. Thompson's analysis intertwines historical context with literary critique, shedding light on the societal pressures of the 1790s, including paternalism and the impact of the French Revolution. Edited by his widow, Dorothy Thompson, the collection includes original texts, notes, and an overview of his insights into this transformative period in literature and politics.

Doctor Eleanor Sutherland, is urgently summoned back to the family home, by her Senior Police Officer father. To her horror, with Ministerial approval she was made sole heir to the estate of the now deceased British MP, Nigel Trevisa.

Illuminates the nature and social significance of crime in eighteenth-century England and reveals attitudes toward public hangings in London. Bibliogs

Bringing together writings and lectures delivered by Thompson over a number of years, this collection covers the key debates in history and cultural theory that occupied him throughout his career. These include his assessments of other historians and judgements of classic English writers.

First edition, first printing hardcover with unclipped dust jacket, in very good condition. Jacket is scuffed, and edges are creased and nicked. Page block is lightly blemished, otherwise as unread. LW

From one of Canada’s cherished performing artists comes an audacious non-fiction work that delves into the stories that shape us and the lasting impact of the past across generations. Growing up north of Toronto, R.H. Thomson was captivated by romantic notions of war, playing with toy soldiers and recreating battles in his imagination. However, his childhood was also influenced by the real-life experiences of his family members who fought in wars. Eight of his great uncles served in the First World War, while his great aunt worked as a surgical nurse in Europe. Tragically, five great uncles lost their lives in battle, and two returned home profoundly affected, suffering from the long-term consequences of war. Their letters home provide deep insights into their experiences, revealing the true human cost of conflict. In this work, Thomson examines his family’s history and the broader implications of war, exploring military history, art, literature, and science. He advocates for new ways to honor the fallen through “The World Remembers,” a project aimed at naming each individual killed in the First World War. This epic yet intimate exploration challenges our understanding of history and the impact of war on lives.

Through motion and immersion in the beauty of nature, Thompson finds a way out of the hell of depression and drug addiction. Thompson, now a successful psychologist, retraces the path that led him from despair to wellness, detailing the chilling childhood trauma that caused his depression, and the unorthodox treatment that saved him.

Throughout his life, E.P. Thomson had been working on aspects of English romantic literature of the 1790s. He intended eventually to publish a full study of the period, but died before he could complete the project. This book contains parts of that project.

With essays on Mary Wollstonecraft, Tom Maguire, Christopher Caudwell, William Morris, Herbert Gutman, Eleanor Marx, Edgell Rickword, George Sturt, and other socialist topics.

This biographical study is a window into 19th-century British society & the life of Wm Morris--the great craftsman, architect, designer, poet & writer--who remains a monumental & influential figure to this day. This account chronicles how his concern with artistic & human values led him to cross what he called the 'river of fire' & become a committed socialist--committed not only to the theory of socialism but also to the practice of it in the day-to-day struggle of working people in Victorian England. While both the British Labor Movement & the Marxists have venerated Morris, this legacy of his life proves that many of his ideas didn't accord with the dominant reforming tendencies, providing a unique perspective on Morris scholarship.

E.P. Thompson's collected poetry showcases the same passion and energy found in his renowned historical and political writings. While his poetry may not be as widely recognized, it reflects the depth of his thought and commitment to social issues. Edited by Fred Inglis, this collection brings together Thompson's poetic voice, offering readers a unique perspective on his literary contributions beyond his historical works.

Handbook of Greek and Latin palaeography is an unchanged, high-quality reprint of the original edition of 1893. Hansebooks is editor of the literature on different topic areas such as research and science, travel and expeditions, cooking and nutrition, medicine, and other genres. As a publisher we focus on the preservation of historical literature. Many works of historical writers and scientists are available today as antiques only. Hansebooks newly publishes these books and contributes to the preservation of literature which has become rare and historical knowledge for the future.

This book, first published in 1967, examines the foundations and the substance of the Montgomery Legend. The public needed a Hero as Britain's time on the ropes ended, and it was also politically necessary, lest Britain be swamped by the power of its allies.

This book, first published in 1969, examines the achievement of Montgomery in the campaign in NW Europe in 1944-5. The author provides an in-depth analysis of Montgomery's generalship, personality, complex relations with his American allies, and his own subordinates.

This book, first published in 1963, is an early biography of Winston Churchill, attempting to discover a complete and complex Churchill, in his character, ambitions and personal experiences, the book seeks to present a clearer insight into the events of his life.

'Tis the season ... to go into hiding. Taut and compelling, Closing In is a thrilling page-turner.