Virginia Roundingová je autorka, kritička a autorka řady podrobných historických publikací. Její práce se zaměřuje na odhalování motivací, okolností a lidských osudů v klíčových historických momentech, často s důrazem na skryté aspekty moci, vášně a společenských kontrastů. S citem pro detail a schopností proniknout do psychologie svých postav, Roundingová vytváří živé a plastické portréty historických postav, které čtenářům přibližuje prostřednictvím pečlivě vybraných svědectví a vlastních vhledů. Její styl je oceňován pro svou erudovanost, hloubku a schopnost poutavě vyprávět o složitých tématech.
The book explores the contrasting history of Smithfield, highlighting its transformation from a vibrant hub of medieval festivities and tournaments to a grim site of public executions during Tudor England. Once known for its lively St Bartholomew's Day celebrations and bustling meat market, Smithfield's darker legacy as a place for the execution of heretics reveals the complexities of its past and the societal changes over time.
Smithfield, settled on the fringes of Roman London, was once a place of revelry. Jesters and crowds flocked for the medieval St Bartholomew's Day celebrations, tournaments were plentiful and it became the location of Londons most famous meat market. Yet in Tudor England, Smithfield had another, more sinister use, the public execution of heretics. Spanning the reigns of British historys most remarkable dynasty, The Burning Time is a vivid insight into an era in which what was orthodoxy one year might be dangerous heresy the next. The first martyrs were Catholics, who cleaved to Rome in defiance of Henry VIIIs break with the papacy. But with the accession of Henrys daughter Mary - soon to be nicknamed Bloody Mary - the charge of heresy was levelled against devout Protestants, who chose to burn rather than recant. At the centre of Virginia Roundings vivid account of this extraordinary period are two very different characters. The first is Richard Rich, Thomas Cromwells protege, who, almost uniquely, remained in a position of great power, influence and wealth under three Tudor monarchs, and who helped send many devout men and women to their deaths. The second is John Deane, Rector of St Bartholomews, who was able, somehow, to navigate the treacherous waters of changing dogma and help others to survive. The Burning Time is their story, but it is also the story of the hundreds of men and women who were put to the fire for their faith. It is a gripping insight into a time when people were willing to die, and to kill, in the name of religion
Focusing on the tumultuous relationship between Emperor Nicholas II and Tsarina Alexandra Fyodorovna, this narrative explores the psychological dynamics of their marriage and its influence on the historical events surrounding them. The book offers a deep, personal examination of their lives, revealing how their bond played a crucial role in the fate of the Russian monarchy during a period of upheaval.
Focusing on real-life situations, including many case studies, this handbook
offers guidance to: the responsibilities of a churchwarden; how to become a
churchwarden; working with the minister; the duties of a churchwarden through
the year; what a churchwarden should know; what a churchwarden should ask;
and, what to do when problems arise.
Many legends have grown up about the sexual rapacity of Catherine the Great.
Unhappily married to the Grand Duke Peter, a man who preferred to play with
his toy soldiers in the bedroom, they failed to produce an heir, and Catherine
turned her attentions to a certain Sergey Saltykov who fathered the future
Tsar Paul I.
1927. This work is primarily a story wherein Anthony has woven the portrait of a real woman into the pattern of 18th Century politics. The reader is introduced to Catherine, the statesman, who unites Russia, destroys Poland and participates in the American Revolutionary War. The reader also sees Catherine, the jealous mistress of men, who at sixty has a lover of twenty-five. The book has particular interest in its bearing on Catherine's celebrated love life.
Focusing on parish ministry, this practical handbook provides guidance for clergy to navigate challenges and crises effectively. It emphasizes preparation and foundational work to prevent common issues faced in ministry. The authors explore themes such as crisis management, leadership models, and resource management, offering concrete examples of difficult situations. Additionally, they provide insightful advice on minimizing damage when circumstances go awry, making it a valuable resource for those committed to their spiritual calling.
