The Lure of the Beach

More about the book

The crash of surf, the smell of salted air, and the wet sand underfoot evoke the timeless allure of the beach, a space that has captivated humanity for millennia. While the natural beauty remains unchanged, our connection to the coast has evolved significantly. This work chronicles the history of our relationship with the beach, exploring its transformation from the seaside pleasure palaces of Roman elites and the rituals of medieval pilgrims to the modern resort towns of today. Robert C. Ritchie examines the shifting social dynamics of beachgoers, advancements in transportation, and the evolution of fashion, from nudity to Victorian styles and back again. He also traces the geographic spread of beach culture from England to France, across the Mediterranean, and into nineteenth-century America and beyond. As climate change and rising sea levels threaten our coastlines, we face a crucial moment to reassess our responsibilities toward these ecosystems. This narrative reveals that the beach, whether viewed as a commodified destination, an ecological haven, or a battleground for public access, is deeply intertwined with human history and is more relevant today than ever.