Mont-Saint-Michel and Chartres

by Henry Adams, Raymond Carney (Introduction)

Overview

Using architecture, sculpture, culture and history, Adams humanizes the medieval period and provides valuable insight on religious philosophy. Mont-Saint Michel and Chartes provides a background and description of the construction of two French landmarks built in the 11th century. The Mont-Saint Michel cathedral was built during a militant time; it was not enough to simply be steadfast in one’s own beliefs, but also to make others believe them. Religious conversion was a form of defense. Mont-Saint Michel was built in a period where faith was aggressive, almost violent, and to accommodate this, Mont-Saint Michel was built in honor of a warrior angel. In contrast, the Chartes cathedral, another French monument built in the Gothic period, was built as a shrine to Mary, the mother of God. Using Mary’s image and inspiration, this church set a welcoming tone. While the cathedral of Mont-Saint Michel represents a more aggressive side of faith, the cathedral of Chartes is the embodiment of love and peace. In the same way that this contrast exists between the two cathedrals, a similar duality is present in the Christian faith. It is both a safe haven and a weapon wielded by the religious in order to conform others to their faith. Through descriptions and comparisons between Mont-Saint Michel and Chartes, Adams provides thoughtful reflection on both Christianity and the magnificent structures of the Gothic period.

Mont-Saint Michel and Chartes by Henry Adamsis a subjective and personal view on history written in beautiful prose. With the stories behind two grand French cathedrals, Mont-Saint Michel and Chartes explore themes of Christianity, gender, and medieval culture with eloquent and enlightened discourse on history and the politics within Christianity.

Now in a modern, readable font and new, striking cover design, Mont-Saint Michel and Chartes by the prolific American author and philosopher, Henry Adams provides meaningful meditation on the duality of religion and insight on the French Gothic period.

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Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780140390544
Publisher:	Penguin Publishing Group
Publication date:	06/03/1986
Series:	Penguin Classics Series
Edition description:	Reprint
Pages:	448
Product dimensions:	5.15(w) x 7.75(h) x 1.00(d)
Age Range:	18 Years

About the Author

Having been born into the family of two American presidents, Henry Adams (1838-1918) held great privilege. He had a close relationship with his grandfather, and former United States president, John Quincy Adams. Adams worked as a private secretary for his father for many years, accompanying him on his travels. Outside of his work with his family, Adams was a well-known political journalist. His autobiography, The Education of Henry Adams, was claimed to be one of the best works of nonfiction written in the 20th century.

Table of Contents

Mont Saint Michel and ChartresAcknowledgments
Introduction by Raymond Carney
A Brief Chronology of Adams' Life
A Note on the Text
Mont Saint Michel and Chartres
Notes
Glossary of Architectural Terms
Suggestions for Further Reading
Index

What People are Saying About This

James James

"From beginning to end, Mont Saint-Michel and Chartres reads as from a man in the fresh morning of life, with a frolic power unusual to historic literature."