Monthly Archives: March 2016

An Introduction into Anglo-Norman Early Drama

Drama arose in the Tenth Century in certain monasteries when modifications to the mass occurred. Scenes of the Master’s life began to be represented in the churches, especially during the holier holidays. Many could not read and so the use … Continue reading

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Wollaton Hall in Nottinghamshire, English Renaissance at Its Best, and Home to “The Dark Knight Rises”

Robert Smythson began work on Wollaton Hall in 1580. The Hall was to be the home of Sir Francis Willoughby. Most experts think Smythson, who also designed Hardwick Hall, in the same area, appears to have used Mount Edgcumbe in … Continue reading

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Who Were The “Ton” and the “Beau Monde”?

Le bon ton is a French phrase meaning “the good style” or “good form.” One could be said to have good ton–meaning good style. So one could be part of the Ton, if one had the style for it–which is why … Continue reading

Posted in British history, customs and tradiitons, George IV, Georgian, Georgian England, Georgian Era, Great Britain, history, Living in the Regency, Living in the UK, political stance, Victorian era, William IV | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 7 Comments

Do You Know the Origin of These Words and Phrases?

Do You Know The Origin of These Words and Phrases? I have been editing again, as well as judging a few writing contests. The process had me searching out some of the least common words and phrases I encountered. Check … Continue reading

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Georgian Architecture: University of London, a Metropolitan, Nonsectarian University

  In 1820, the Scottish poet, Thomas Campbell, put forth the idea of a metropolitan, nonsectarian university. With others he launched a movement in 1825 to found the University of London, for students excluded from Oxford or Cambridge by religious tests … Continue reading

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14th Century Scottish Writers

Early Scottish literature includes works in English, Scottish Gaelic, Scots, Brythonic, French, Latin, and Norn. The earliest extant literature from what is now Scotland was a 6th Century Brythonic speech. Under the direction of the Catholic Church early literature was written … Continue reading

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Announcing the Winner of “Leap Year” from Regina Jeffers’ Sadie Hawkins’ Day Post

Congratulations go out to Martha Claycomb, who will receive a DVD copy of the film Leap Year. Martha, please contact Regina at jeffersregina@gmail.com to claim your prize. In your email, include your mailing address. 

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Has Lady Violet Crawley, Countess of Grantham, Made Being a “Dowager” Popular Again?

Of late, I am once again dealing with the term “dowager” in one of my works in progress (WIP). The Earl of Remmington’s mother resides at one of his smaller estates. As she is the widow of the late earl, … Continue reading

Posted in British history, Great Britain, Jane Austen, Living in the Regency, Regency era | Tagged , , , , | 2 Comments

Life Below Stairs ~ Part Four: The Work Never Ends

Up before dawn, the servants of an aristocratic household found the work tedious. Likely, the lower servants worked two hours before he/she was permitted to sit to his own meager breakfast. The kitchen maid began her day with lighting the … Continue reading

Posted in British history, Great Britain, Jane Austen, Living in the Regency, real life tales, Regency era, Victorian era | Tagged , , , , , , | 5 Comments