brain bits

A new beginning

2010-04-30T16:56:00.000-06:00

I have decided to resume blogging again now that school is over and I have some free time (at least for the present). I have started a new blog in an effort to redeem myself for my inactivity. Please visit my new blog at www.janeleavy.blogspot.com. Thanks for reading!

I am still alive

2009-12-11T19:06:00.001-07:00

This is what fall semester did to me...

celebrating summer...with explosives

2009-08-08T16:20:00.002-06:00

Let's be more politically active

2009-06-19T17:37:00.004-06:00

Check out missspringville2009.blogspot.com.

go veg

2009-06-12T16:31:00.006-06:00

This is why you should consider vegetarianism.

New face of North Korea?

2009-06-12T10:52:00.003-06:00

Kim Jong Nam: Future dictator of North Korea?

(I'm sorry, but this just made me chuckle...he doesn't quite strike me as the communist dictator successor-type...)

my bowels hate me

2009-05-17T02:01:00.004-06:00

New things I've eaten (so far...):

chicken feet
stinky tofu
pig intestine
chicken butt
pork blood
duck tongue
blood rice
sashimi
snails
fish balls
cuttlefish snout
(and probably lots of other things that I didn't know was in my food...)

Karaoke

2009-05-10T03:21:00.006-06:00

Chinese Abba :)

We're not so good...

Megan and Megan

S.O.S.

A sad realization

2009-05-08T03:34:00.003-06:00

Almost everyday, there is music in the streets that sounds like the music from an ice cream truck. Since it's so hot here, the thought of ice cream is always tempting. The other day, I finally saw one of the trucks that blasted the ice cream music. To my chagrin, it was a garbage truck! Why do garbage trucks need to play music? Garbage trucks don't need to attract small children and lead them away like the pied piper for business. That music will forever more remind me of garbage...what a sad thought.

Death by scooter

2009-05-07T02:40:00.004-06:00

I think I might die in a scooter accident here. Everyone drives one, everyone speeds on them, and no one follows the traffic laws while driving them. It's kind of funny because they all wear thier own masks when they drive (for the pollution or for shade from the sun or something). I think I should invest in a personalized mask before I leave...I think I'll get one with skulls and cross bones on it :)

Ni hao!

2009-05-01T02:52:00.005-06:00

Nin hao! I am in Taiwan and have not been quarantined as of yet :) The traveling was terrible. Try sleeping in a plane for 14 hours with crying babies, sketchy asian cuisine, and blasting announcements in three different languages. "*Ding, dong* yadie an genelmen, due to tubulence, fassen yo seatbout." On top of that, try surviving in subzero temperatures with used blankets and pillows...gross. (I swear my pillow had some glistening saliva on it.)

I am trying desperately to stay awake to get used to the whole time change thing. Maybe I'll go out in the muggy city of Tainan to do some market hopping. I'll post more stories as things come up. Stay posted!

Zai jian

Swine Flu

2009-04-29T00:11:00.011-06:00

"Please be aware that a number of countries in Latin America, Europe, Asia and the South Pacific have instituted health screening at international airports and are requiring that travelers from North America go through thermal scans or have their temperature taken upon arrival. Those with higher-than-normal temperatures will have to undergo further medical assessments including the possibility of quarantine." -BYU Kennedy Center

I am going to Taiwan tomorrow. I hope I don't get quaratined...that would be sad. Maybe they'll make me wear a mask...then I'll fit in with the latest fashion trend.

I am a nurse...

2009-04-21T12:06:00.000-06:00

This song by Gene Cotton (don't worry...I didn't know who he was either...actually, he kind of looks like Robin Williams...) was performed at the opening ceremonies of the NSNA Conference in Nashville. It is actually a pretty good parody on nursing. I was up in the front, but you can't see me because I'm too short (as usual...).

Euphoria

2009-04-21T08:40:00.000-06:00

Euphoria (yoo-fawr-ee-uh) - noun: a) a feeling of happiness, confidence, or wellbeing sometimes exaggerated in pathological states of mania. b) a feeling of elation after successfully accomplishing six finals in three days before classes officially end and taking off in a plane to travel far away from campus. c) a feeling of bliss when consuming pineapple coconut Hagen Daz. d) a feeling of jubilation from receiving a long desired and needed paycheck.

I am an estate inheritor

2009-03-25T19:36:00.000-06:00

I just inherited a 1940s custom Steinway piano from my aunt's third husband's deceased parents. It sounds like something from a movie. I didn't think that people inherited large items from old estates anymore. Apparently I was wrong...and I am very happy about it :)

Happy International Women's Day!

2009-03-05T17:18:00.001-07:00

http://www.internationalwomensday.com/

Will the stimulus stimulate?

2009-03-03T19:10:00.000-07:00

The $789 billion dollar stimulus package passed by Congress is a the most expansive unleashing of government fiscal firepower since WWII. In theory, this plan is supposed to boost economic activity by increasing short-term aggregate demand--"the billion dollar checks to consumers will be just the right pick-me-up needed to stay out of recession so that we can continue in our free-spending ways." Uh...not so simple-the government can't just push a few buttons to fix a $14 trillion economy. The economy is complex and the stimulus plan is quite vague...the stimulus may not work and may cause more damage. This plan could crash and burn if the stimulus comes too late, consumers don't do what they're "supposed" to do, oil prices rise, China cuts back on purchases of U.S. securities, and the dollar plummets from currency speculation. Due to the large gap between what America can produce and sell, even more money may be needed in a stimulus to be somewhat effective as a temporary fix. Only time can tell whether this "stimulus" will really stimulate or not. For now, it is prudent to play it safe-we should live within our means and put aside reserves.

Protect society: Stick to pink, lace, and glitter for Valentine's

2009-02-13T18:26:00.000-07:00

In one of my classes this week, we decided to throw a Valentine's candy-exchanging party like the ones we used to have in elementary school. I decided to make a somewhat shocking anatomical design to put on my valentine bag to spice things up a bit. I took an x-ray of a thoracic cavity and put a picture of a real heart gushing blood from an arrow wound on it. (See the connection...heart being struck by cupid's arrow? I guess I have an odd sense of humor....) Needless to say, I was super excited to display my masterpiece in front of the class. However, the class lecture for the day was about the negative impacts of violence on society. My professor showed us how increased exposure to violence correlates with female assault, battery, and murder. As you can probably guess, I started to feel really embarrassed about my bag. I carefully removed the graphic picture off of my bag under my desk so that my professor wouldn't see it and think that I was a danger to society. At the class party after the lecture, I sheepishly revealed my plain paper bag with ripped-off tape and glue marks. I felt like such a loser. Moral of the story...use G-rated Valentine bags in public...it protects society from assault, battery, and murder.

a poem for mr. loser

2009-01-27T14:35:00.000-07:00

Dear Mr. Loser,

How could you
Never care about her
She's dying inside
Which you will never see
You never even call
Just to talk to her
How could you
Just leave her like this
That’s no way to act
That’s no way to behave
She wants to know why you decided not
To be part of her life
She gave her heart to you

You have no heart at all

Presidential Inauguration 09: A green tie affair

2009-01-17T11:34:00.000-07:00

I was reading an article about the presidential inauguration and was struck with how eco-friendly the celebration plans were. President-elect Obama is definitely taking every precaution to send a positive impression to the scrutinizing public. Here's a list of some of the surprising eco-friendly plans:

-Any leftover food (organic and local of course) from the event will be composted

-The outdoor catering tents will be powered with a biodiesel generator

-Energy-efficient LEDs will make up the decorative lighting

-VIPs will skip the plastic bottles, hydrating instead with water made from the air (check out ecoloblue.com to learn all about atmospheric water generation)

-Staff and talent (including headliner Wyclef Jean) will be shuttled in chauffeured electric cars

-Lucky attendees will walk down recycled green carpet, dine on food sourced — when possible — from vendors in the D.C. metropolitan area, and wash their hands with biodegradable soap

-Bike riders can utilize the Washington Area Biker's Association's two free bike valet stations at the primary inaugural event

-Friends of the segway (a two-wheeled, self-balancing electric vehicle) can rent the contraption at Segs in the City

-Saturn hybrids will be used as courtesy vehicles throughout the inauguration

This has inspired me to become more green-friendly. Maybe I should adopt one of those neon green grocery shopping bags, or purchase recycled and remodeled clothing (promo for http://cateandallis.etsy.com/). I think I should write an editorial to the Daily Universe to request that BYU start a valet biking service....

The speculum: A girl's best friend

2009-01-09T17:48:00.001-07:00

I learned how to do cervical exams today. In a few easy steps, not only can you examine for infection, cancer, and leakage, but you can even stick your fingers in the hole to see how dilated a laboring pregnant woman is! Isn't that exciting! (sarcasm)

Talk about invasive and awkward. "Excuse me Mrs. Doe, may I insert a cold metal device in your vagina and palpate your cervix with my fingers?" Gynaecology is not for the faint of heart....

Would you like to eat a hammer?

2008-12-27T17:46:00.000-07:00

I made history this year on Christmas day by trying out my first hammer. Let me quickly define "hammer" before you start to think that I have the ability to digest metal. A hammer according the Gassman Family Recipe Book consists of ham, pineapple, and swiss cheese melted on a roll. My family has consumed these annually on Christmas for the past 40 or so years. I have never attempted to eat one due to the fact that I hate ham and swiss cheese. Plus, I'm not a huge fan of fruit either. At this point you're probably thinking that I don't eat much of anything, but let me assure you that I am working diligently to overcome my pickiness. Hence, I ventured to overcome my hammerphobia this year. The showdown between the hammer and I happened rather unexpectedly. One of my cousins snuck behind me and savagely shoved it into my mouth. I was forced to swallow it practically whole and promptly started to gag and heave. To the relief of my family, my stomach held on to it and it didn't pop out all over the floor in a half digested mess. Whether this hammer tasting test was official or not, I can proudly say that I have braved a Gassman hammer.

Christmas...not Santa/mas

2008-12-12T11:39:00.000-07:00

Holiday consumerism drives me crazy.

my new favorite commodity

2008-11-18T12:23:00.000-07:00

I had a really super old humidifier from the early 90s sitting in my room that probably was shooting out fungus and bacteria instead of clean, cool humidified air. I was at Sam's club the other day, and happened upon this Winnie the Pooh humidifier that shot out nubulized moisture from his ears! I was so excited! It even had nightlight! I just had to get it, so now I have an illuminated Winnie the Pooh on my nightstand to provide clean moisture for my nares and scare away the monsters under my bed :)

Gobama!

2008-11-06T14:24:00.000-07:00

"Ik word blij van je schilderijen"

2008-10-29T08:40:00.000-06:00

"Ik houd van kleur," zei ik eens toen ik op een kunstmarkt stond te schilderen."Nee, reageerde een lieve meneer op leeftijd, u BENT kleur met lef en talent"

hello.

2008-10-18T14:56:00.000-06:00

hello world.

here i am.

i am me.

i am active.

i am a noun and a verb and an adjective rolled into one.

a noverctive.

i work i play i read i sleep i sing to myself in the car.

sometimes i cry.

i want to know you.

do you know me?

i want you to want to know me my name and my qualities.

i want to help you.

even if you don't help me.

even if you laugh when i fall or blush or belch.

because i am me.

and i am lovingthoughtfulinterestingcreative.

hello.

the transgender mannequin

2008-10-11T20:02:00.000-06:00

Last night, I hauled a fully functional nursing mannequin, gourney, wheelchair, and IV pole into my apartment on the third floor to store them for the homecoming parade. The actual mannequin looked like it could be either a girl or boy...until you lifted up the gown. (I'm not a pervert...I study medicine...this is what I do....) Yep, the mannequin was complete with a removeable plastic vagina as well as fake breasts...I guess it was a "she" for the evening.

That morning at the parade, the plastic vagina fell out in the parking lot as I was unloading it from my car. My instructors just laughed with me because we're so desensitized to these things. The rest of the public gave us wierd looks and quickly walked by. When we put the genitalia in the proper anatomical position, we realized the "she" needed to be a "he" for the parade. (We were having the mannequin be an injured football player from the opposing football team.) The female chest needed to be removed. We lifted up the gown and pulled and tugged at the plastic breats until they came of. Unfortunately, the foam supporting the plastic frame ripped (that was my professor's fault). We ended up using the foam breasts as shoulder pads for the football player. During the parade, we just had to make sure that the gown didn't blow up to reveal the female genitalia that would scare small children lining the parade route.

The parade was a success, thanks to our mauled transvestite imitation football player mannequin. We all had some good laughs at the end when we had to change the "he" with the vagina back into a "she." Maybe I should consider being a plastic surgeon one day....

cuisine a la simple

2008-10-06T10:57:00.001-06:00

I made some delightful pumpkin spice bread on Saturday. I took a mix and added water and eggs and oil and let the oven do the rest. If you ever want to sample one of my scrumptious mix masterpieces, just let me know. If you want the real thing...tough luck! (You'll have to talk to Reagan for the chef-h'oeuvre...her link can be found below.)

Bruton's agammaglobulinemia

2008-09-30T12:16:00.000-06:00

Try saying this ten times fast....

Timp Trek

2008-08-31T15:03:00.000-06:00

I hiked Mt. Timpanogos on Friday night to see the sunrise on Saturday morning. Of course my group was late, so we didn't start hiking until around 2am. Since the sunrise is around 6, we booked it to the top in about 4 hours. Talk about grueling! Not to mention, I got bug bites, breathed in tons of dirt, urinated in the trees, tripped over rocks in the dark, almost fell off a cliff, and discovered an overflowing bucket of human waste in a meadow. I suppose it was a rewarding experience....

Springville City Health Hazard Alert

2008-08-26T16:35:00.000-06:00

I think I'm going to write a letter to Springville City and Nebo School district to express my digust about their elementary school volunteer trash clean-up program. My little sister's elementary school was assigned to clean up the trash around Springville High School the other day. The were not provided with any protective health equipment, such as gloves, or even trash bags for that matter. The little kids picked up stuff as gross as used condoms and drug waste around the baseball fields! Talk about health hazard! (Not to mention awkward...try explaining what those things are to inquisitive little children....) I propose that Springville City, and Nebo School District for that matter, have high school students clean up their own messes and provide the students with proper protective equipment to prevent to spread of disease in the community.

Beijing Olympic Dynasty or Disaster?

2008-08-16T17:20:00.000-06:00

I was completely stunned by the unbelievable presentation by the Chinese in the Opening Ceremonies for the Beijing Olympics. Every possible attention to detail and perfection was attended to create a dazzling debut of Chinese culture. I was particularly impressed by the 2008 people used in every separate performance for the entire duration of the show. How did the organization committee find all of these performers? They probably used all the workers from the closed up factories that were shut down prevent excess pollution :) On a more serious note, the Chinese government and Olympic committees were definitely preparing the world to see a new side of Chinese supremacy.

As millions and millions of Olympic fans (including myself) have tuned into the games, the Chinese have presented the country as being the leader in technology, fashion, and hospitality. We need to remember, however, that although some of this propaganda may be true for some parts of large cities like Beijing, millions of Chinese are still trapped by poverty and burdened by human rights violations. These Olympic games will play an important part in the evolution of Chinese politics and international relations. Will they help the world pay more attention to the abuses that still exist under the Chinese government? Will they help enable underprivileged citizens to find hope in a possibly better future for China as the country continues to open up to world? I hope that this historic event in Beijing can bring about postive change while still celebrating the rich culture that this country has to offer.

Drum Babble

2008-08-06T21:51:00.000-06:00

Set.
Paradiddle flam tap drag double time
Book mark eggbeater swiss army triplet
Seven stroke roll invert back stick juggle
Rock shoot flip crab in out buzz
Cheesy poof rim pop ghost note stop
Pause...
Relax.

Cataract Coterie

2008-07-31T11:12:00.000-06:00

My family tends to have bizarre family reunions. Yesterday, my uncle decided that watching my grandma's cataract surgery would be a great way for us to bond. We drove down to the surgical center, scrubbed up, and watched this. My grandma was absolutely delighted that we could spend quality time together like this. She chatted with us the whole time while the surgeon poked and prodded at her eye. We even hooked up an ipod to the operating room soundsystem so we could blast my grandma's favorite Frank Sinatra hits. Let me tell you, this was a party like no others....

Trafalgar Square TV Talk

2008-07-25T10:59:00.001-06:00

My sister gets herself into some pretty crazy situations all the time. The other day, she was walking around Trafalgar Square in London and somehow was chosen to be interviewed for a British television program on sex education. They have her sit on this bed complete with a Union Jack duvet to answer questions about her sexual habits. In this moment of truth, my sister proudly proclaimed to all of Britain that she is a virgin. The shocked interviewer even gave her a hug. I wonder what the other interviewees of the day had to say about their sexual habits?

The Economics of Love

2008-07-21T17:05:00.000-06:00

Recently I've been reading The Eustace Diamonds by Sir Anthony Trollope (which I highly recommend to anyone curious about the novel). The main conflicts involve characters that get tangled up in legal harrassments and love affairs because of a set of fabulous diamonds. Amid this melange of crime, politics, and romance, Trollope addresses the issue of love in marriage. Does marriage based on money pay off? Can marriage based on love weather the plights of poverty?

This conflict of love versus money in marriage is actually a relatively new predicament to mankind. It wasn't until relatively recent times that Western societies could afford to make marriage arrangements based solely on love. Marriage has historically been mostly an economic business transaction. From the words of anthropologists, marriage is traditionally a relationship between two men made manifest by the exchange of a woman. The transfer of goods for a woman symbolizes the transfer of rights. Types of traditional economical changes include bride wealth (money from husband given to bride's family for compensation), bride service (husband gives service to bride's family for compensation), and dowries (bride has money from her family to bribe grooms to provide security).

We can't forget that marriage is also a contract to help untangle the issue of sexuality. The marriage transaction and resulting contract establishes a continuing claim to the right of sexual access to a woman, which involves the eligibility to bear children. Therefore, marriage also links property and inheritance.

To put it simply, marriage is historically an issue of "sexinomics." In today's society, we can afford to marry for love, but do we really throw aside the primeval sexinomical issues when we are searching for a mate?

Clumsy Me...

2008-07-18T12:19:00.000-06:00

A few days ago, I walked into a bar...and said "ouch." (And I've got a semi black eye to prove it.)

le fragment de philosophie française

2008-07-15T12:24:00.000-06:00

La vie est vaine:
Un peu d'amour,
Un peu de haine,
Et pui-bonjour!
La vie est breve:
Un peu d'espoir,
Un peu de reve,
Et puis-bon soir!
-Leon Manotenaeken, Peu de chose
(Life is aimless: a little love, a little hate, a then-good day! Life is short: a little hope, a little dreaming, and then-goodnight!)

"Twiffler"

2008-07-12T13:22:00.000-06:00

This is my new favorite word. I learned about it from a lexicologist in Oxford who works on the New Oxford Dictionary. Can you guess what it means?

Confronting My Gerontophobia

2008-07-08T20:27:00.000-06:00

I've never been fond of the idea of looking at myself in the mirror one day and discovering that I've become wrinkled, lined, and flabby. The idea of becoming senile, incontinent, and brittle has not been all that appealing to me either. Well, my rather pessimistic outlook on life was transformed today when I took a pilgrimage to visit my grandma in her senior living community. I was surprised to see a bunch of spry elderly folks stripped down and tanning at the pool, reading gossip magazines, and playing poker together. They had no shame displaying their cellulite, hearing aids, and grey hair. Perhaps there's a dignity that comes with aging that our culture doesn't fully appreciate. I realized how little I focus on the fact that most elderly people in our society really contribute postively to their communities. In fact, less than 5% of the elderly live in long term care facilities (B. Heise, APRN, PhD). Yes, aging naturally brings about some physical and mental changes, but many aspects of our overall wellbeing can be preserved as we age if we focus on preventing disease, keeping connections with others, and pursuing personl interests and hobbies.

After hangin' with the crew at the pool today with my dear old g-ma, I've resolved to focus on living a healthy lifestyle and displaying my dignified aging with pride. Can't you see me in the far future sitting in an overstuffed chair pouring out my years of wisdom to a bunch of young impressionable minds sitting in a circle around me? Okay...so I probably won't be that nice. I'll probably end up being one of the people who races in the jazzy chairs and smacks obnoxious children with canes. Come on, when I'm that old, I'm going to deserve some respect :)

4th of July Celebrations: Forms of Political Brainwashing?

2008-07-04T18:40:00.000-06:00

This morning I sat along Center Street in Provo, Utah (Independence Day party capital of the country) in the sizzling summer sun awaiting for the famous "Freedom Festival" parade to begin. After an endless flow of karate kids and sunshine generation singers passed by, my eardrums were blown out by canon fire and fly-over jet stunts to announce the official starting of the parade. The canons were followed by a flood of American flags, boy scouts, servicemen and women, and military tanks all cruising along to cheesy patriotic tunes. I wondered what foreigners might think of this overwhelming display of military muscle. As even more camo trucks, jeeps, and hummers polluted the hot air and took up the majority of the parade entries, I started to really ponder about why the military has to be such a prominent part of all our celebrations in America. Has modern warfare become America's symbol of political power in the world? Does our government shove patriotic propaganda down our throats to coerce us into a false sense of security? Do we apathetically accept that order in the world must be due to a successful claim to the monopoly of the legitimate use of physical force within a given territory? (Max Weber's defintion of a political "state.")

Dear Readers:

2008-07-02T17:13:00.000-06:00

I am officially back from my United Kingdom adventure, so I no longer need to post large, boring research assingments on this site. I hopefully will be posting more interesting fodder for you to sink your teeth into. Thank you for your patience.

Sincerely,
Medicus

Site 10: Imperial War Museum

2008-06-15T22:31:00.000-06:00

The Imperial War Museum can trace its beginnings to the the Great War (WWI). In 1917, the Cabinet decided that a national war museum should be created to display the material from the Great War, which was then still being fought (Imperial war museum london, p. 1). In 1920, the museum was formally established by an act of Parliament and was assigned a board of trustees (Imperial war museum london, p. 1). The government at the time was still a dominion government, so the museum was given the name Imperial War Museum instead of National War Museum (Imperial war museum london, p. 1).

The original location of the Imperial War Museum was in the Crystal Palace (Imperial war museum london, p. 1). Crystal Palace was designed by Joseph Paxton and was made of glass and cast iron (Morgan, p. 454). Natural light could stream into the exhibits for easy viewing of the displays. The museum was officially opened by King George V on June 9, 1920 (Imperial war museum london, p. 1). In 1924, the exhibits were moved to two galleries adjoining the Imperial Institute in South Kensington (Imperial war museum london, p. 1). The museum functioned under difficult circumstances at the Imperial Institute until 1935 (Imperial war museum london, p. 1).

In 1936, the Duke of York (who later became King George VI) reopened the museum at its present location (Imperial war museum london, p. 1). The building that the museum is currently situated in was formerly the central portion of the Bethlem Royal Hospital (Imperial war museum london, p. 1). Bethlem was the original "Bedlam," or hospital to treat the mentally ill (Bethlem royal hospital historical information, p. 1). In the early 1930s, the east and west wings of the hospital were demolished to make room for the park that currently surrounds the museum (Imperial war museum, p. 1). When the museum was moved to this building, the hospital was moved to Eden Park near Beckenham, Kent (Bethlem royal hospital historical information, p. 1).

The museum was closed to the public in September 1940 when the Blitz began in England (Imperial war museum, p. 1). The Blitz covered a nine month period from September 1940 until May 1941 (Hill, p. 41). By June 1941, German planes were needed elsewhere to fight with the opening of a front against the Soviet Union (Hill, p. 41). The museum, however, remained closed for the duration of WWII. Vulnerable locations evacuated to safe stores outside of London and most of the exhibits survived the war (Imperial war museum, p. 1). A Short seaplane from the Battle of Jutland along with some naval models were were damaged by a German blast in January 1941 (Imperial war museum, p. 1). In November 1946, the museum was reopened to the public and efforts were made to make an exhibit for WWII (Imperial war museum, p. 1). In 1953, it was decided that the museum would house exhibits on all military operations that the British Commonwealth have been involved in since WWI in 1914 (Imperial war museum, p. 1).

When I had the opportunity to visit the Imperial War Museum, I was moved by the interactive exhibits that were set up for WWI and WWII. The WWI exhibit had a trench model that showed visitors the terrible conditions of cramped space, poor lighting, constant enemy fire, pest problems, cold and wet weather, and disease. The WWII exhibit had a Blitz reenactment room in which the visitors sat in a shelter and listened to the bombing in the dark, cramped space. There was also a recreation of bombed London street to walk through, which gave a glimpse of the mass destruction that England suffered from the German air raids. The Holocaust Exhibit was very powerful because the museum used real pictures and movies to show the inhumanity of the Holocaust. I was particularly affected by a video showing the discovery of massive numbers of dead, rotting prisoners in the concentration camps after the war was over. These exhibits took me through the devastation of war, but also showed me the hope of victory that was achieved by the sacrifice of millions of people to not give up during hard times.

References:
Bethlem royal hospital historical information. Retrieved June 16, 2008, from http://www.bethlemheritage.org.uk/.
Hill, M. (2001). Britain's darkest and finest hour. Parragon Book: Bath.
Imperial war museum. Retrieved June 16, 2008, from http://london.iwm.org.uk/server/show/nav.00b005.
Morgan, K. (2000). The Oxford illustrated history of britain. Oxford University Press: Oxford.

Site 9: Stonehenge

2008-06-10T10:34:00.000-06:00

Stonehenge is located in the countryside of Salisbury in England. Large bluestones that weigh up to fifty tons stand erect with horizontal stone beams laying on top of specific erect stone pillars (Alexander, p. 36). A henge is actually defined as a roughly circular or oval-shaped flat area over twenty meters that is enclosed by a boundary of earthwork paralleled by an internal ditch (Henge, p. 1). The internal components of the henge may include portal settings, post rings, timber circles, monoliths, horseshoes, stone circles, standing pits, coves, burials, and mounds (Henge, p. 1). The internal structure of Stonehenge is obviously a stone circle. Strictly speaking, however, Stonehenge is not truly a henge because the position of its bank and ditch are reversed (Alexander, p. 36). Surrounding the stone circle are numerous burial mounds that can be seen at least half a mile or more away. It is believed that the stone circle of Stonehenge was modeled after timber circles that date to an even earlier time period (Alexander, p. 36.) Archaeologists believe that Stonehenge is approximately over 5000 years old and was erected sometime between c. 3000 and 1600 BC (Stonehenge background, p. 1).

This mysterious ancient monument obviously had some meaning to the people that labored to build it. Although countless theories of the purpose of Stonehenge have been presented, no one has a clear idea about what it was truly used for. Archaeological discoveries about the ancient people that inhabited that land around the time of Stonehenge provide clues about the possible purpose of the infamous henge. In 2002, Andrew Fitzpatrick of Wessex Archeology conducted an excavation that uncovered the remains of a thirty-five to forty-five-year-old man and a much older man with rich burial goods (Alexander, p. 37). Chemical analysis of the tooth enamel from each man indicated that they were from a region that today covers parts of Switzerland and Germany (Alexander, p. 37). Other burial sites found people from areas around northwester Britain, Wales, and Brittany (Alexander, p. 37). Archeologist Parker Pearson used this idea of immigrating people to support his theory that Stonehenge was a representation of linking stones to ancestors as well as the landscape (Alexander, p. 53).

A popular theory of the purpose of Stonehenge indicates the the strategically positioned stones were used as some sort of astronomical calendar that coincided with solar and lunar patterns (Stonehenge, p. 1). The midsummer sunrise and the midwinter sunset lie very close to the axis between the heel stone and the center of the circle (Stonehenge, p. 1). This type of calendar may have been used for religious or agricultural purposes.

During my visit to Stonehenge, the size of the stone circle seemed somewhat smaller that what I had anticipated it to be from its grand reputation. As I walked around the seemingly confused conglomeration of broken and standing stones, I was transported to a prehistoric time that put my sense of British perspective into a new perspective. All of the seemingly ancient cathedrals and manuscripts from the Middle Ages become more of a recent occurrence in comparison to the thousands of years that separate them from the Neolithic times of Stonehenge. Although we may never know the true purpose behind the construction of Stonehenge, this ancient mystery will continue to show us truly how far back British history reaches.

References:
Alexander, C. (2008, June). Secrets of stonehenge. National Geographic, 34-69.

Henge. Retrieved June 10, 2008, from http://www.eng-h.gov.uk/mpp/mcd/sub/henges1.htm.

Stonehenge. Retrieved June 10, 2008, from http://www.anima.demon.co.uk/stonehenge/index.html.

Stonehenge background. Retrieved June 10, 2008, from http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/server/show/nav.16470.

Site 8: Bath

2008-06-10T08:42:00.000-06:00

The city of Bath is most known for its ancient Roman baths and Georgian style architecture (J. Talbot, personal communication, June 2, 2008). The ancient Roman city was accidentally discovered by builders in 1775 (Widlake, p. 44). Over the centuries, piles of rubble encapsulated the ancient remains. After the 18th century workmen hit the the hot springs, more thorough excavation unveiled one the the finest collection of Roman remains in Great Britain (Widlake, p. 44).

The ancient site of the Roman baths includes the Temple of Aquae Sullis, several baths fed by the sacred hot spring, and well-preserved artifacts such as the gilded bronze head of the goddess Minerva (Roman baths, p. 1). The supposed healing power of the hot springs conflated with Minerva, the Roman goddess of wisdom (Morgan, p. 26). Within the complex of the temple, an altar was even discovered to pay tribute to Minerva. The hot springs have continuously bubbled and steamed for an uncounted number of centuries. Archaeological finds suggest that this phenomenon inspired the Romans to take over the Celtic shrine at the springs in Bath when they invaded (Roman baths, p. 1). To the Romans, this supernatural occurrence could only be the work of the gods.

The mineral-rich water from the hot springs inspired visitors to travel to Bath from all over the Roman Empire (Roman baths, p. 1). Various bathing rooms were built around the central great bath in which people could cleanse themselves in both hot and cold water. The floors connecting the various bathing rooms were even heated by hot air produced by fires in a furnace room that was pumped into the open spaces beneath the stone floors.

After the Romans left, the baths fell into disrepair (Roman baths, p. 1). It was not until the late 18th century when the Georgian city of Bath was being constructed that the newly discovered mineral-rich springs became popular again. When the Georgian city of Bath had been constructed, the baths became a quite popular spot to partake of the healing powers of the ancient springs (Roman baths, p. 1).

When I had the opportunity to visit Bath, I decided to "take of the waters" to test out the historically acclaimed healing powers of the natural springs. The actual water in the baths are non touchable due to the lead pumping system of the Romans and the gradual accumulation of algae, silt, and bacteria over the centuries (Roman baths, p. 1). Within the Georgian pump room, fresh spring water was available to try. It was surprisingly very hot at about forty-five degrees Celsius and was super minerally. The sulfur stood out the most along with the other various minerals that make up the 2.5 grams of minerals in every liter of water (tour guide at Roman Baths, personal communication, June 6, 2008). Rather than feeling a sense of healing, I felt fairly ill after "taking of the water." I did, however, feel like I was in a Jane Austen novel surrounded by all the Georgian architecture in the pump room.

The Georgian architectural style succeeded the English Baroque style of Christopher Wren (Georgian architecture, p. 1). This style is characterized by balance and proportion (Georgian architecture, p. 1). This created the unified and orderly appearance of that the city of Bath became famous for. Simple mathematical ratios were used to maintain the desired symmetry modeled after the ancient Greek and Romans (Georgian Architecture, p. 1). Architect John Wood and his son created the famous architectural masterpieces that displayed the neoclassicism of the Georgian style (Hibbert, p. 148). John Wood the elder designed the Royal Circus; and his son, John Wood the younger, designed the Royal Crescent in the mid 1760s (Hibbert, p. 148). These fashionable living quarters have remained an icon to the Georgian style which defines the city of Bath.

References:
Georgian architecture. Retrieved June 10, 2008, from http://www.essential-architecture.com/STYLE/STY-E02.htm.
Hibbert, C. (1992). The story of england. Phaidon Press: New York.
Morgan, O. (1999). The oxford history of britain. Oxford University Press: Oxford.
Roman baths. Retrieved June 10, 2008, from http://www.sacred-destinations.com/england/bath-roman-baths.htm.
Widlake, B. (1979). This beautiful britain. Marshall Cavendish Books Limited: London.

Site 7: St. Paul's Cathedral

2008-06-03T01:20:00.000-06:00

St. Paul's Cathedral is actually the fourth cathedral to be built on the site that it presently stands on today (St. paul's, p. 1). The first cathedral of London on this site was founded in 604 by Mellitus, a missionary sent to England by Pope Gregory the Great (Burman, p. 7). After the death of King Ethelbert, the church was destroyed in a pagan uprising that swept though the southern part of England (Ewin, p. 3). Christianity returned to London about forty years later and Bishop Erkenwald rebuilt the cathedral (Ewin, p. 3). In 1087, this church of St. Paul was burned down in a fire along with most of the city (Burman, p. 8). The Norman bishop of London eagerly started building a new magnificent cathedral. Unfortunately, the half-completed cathedral was damaged by another fire in 1135 (Ewin, p. 3). Building continued for another 200 years and the Norman style evolved into a Early English style (Ewin, p. 3). This cathedral was massive and dominated London from the the top of the slight hill it was built on. By the beginning of the 14th century, it was 690 feet long and 520 feet high at the spire (Ewin, p. 3).

In 1561, the spire of the cathedral was struck by lightning (Ewin, p. 4). The resulting fire spread to the roof and the foundations were damaged by the fall of the spire (Burman, p. 11). The spire was never rebuilt and the poor reconstruction work lead to the deterioration of much of the fabric within the cathedral. Further damage was done during the passions of the Reformation as ornaments were confiscated and melted down, effigies removed, and men were burnt to death near the great west door (Ewin, p. 4). James I commissioned the royal surveyor, Inigo Jones, to restore the cathedral to its former glory (Ewin, p. 4). Jones combined Romanesque, early and late Gothic, and Classical styles in his new designs (Burman, p. 21). However, the Civil War broke out and halted progress on the restoration efforts. The cathedral was later destroyed by the Great Fire of London in 1616 (St. paul's, p. 1).

The fourth cathedral built still stands today as the current St. Paul's Cathedral. This cathedral was designed by the court architect Sir Christopher Wren. Wren had two options when approaching the issue of rebuilding the cathedral: 1. rebuild the old cathedral with modifications, or 2. build a completely new cathedral (Burman, p. 35). Although the task of starting a new cathedral was daunting, Wren decided to use a completely new design for St. Paul's cathedral.
Wren's early designs did not suit the public or the clergy, but he later compromised with the King and the Commission on a plan the included a long cruciform with a dome (Burman, p. 11).

Construction on the new cathedral lasted from 1675 to 1710 (St. paul's, p. 1). The finished product reflected the determination of the five five monarchs that oversaw its building that London's leading church should be as magnificent as their palaces (St. paul's, p. 1). As time has passed, slight changes and modifications have been made to the internal decoration and uses of the cathedral to suit changing tastes and attitudes (St. paul's, p. 1). For example, the magnificent mosaics seen within the cathedral today are the result of Queen's Victoria's complaint that the interior was "dreary, dingy, and undevotional" (St. paul's, p. 1).

I have had the opportunity of visiting St. Paul's to attend an Evensong service. Before the service began, grand organ music filled the immense space situated beneath the dome. The sound bounced off of all the great walls to produce echoing vibrations that sent chills through my body. The acoustics were fantastic. As the small choir sung psalms and prayers, you could hear every word throughout the cathedral. The service was also awe-inspiring for me because of the all the great mosaics that covered the ceiling. The use of gold along with the other brilliant colors lent to the grandeur experienced in the cathedral. This brilliant design of this monument will continue to attract thousands of visitors and stand as a lasting symbol to the city and the nation.

References:
Burman, P. (1987). St. paul's cathedral. Cambridge University Press: Cambridge.
Ewin, E. (1973). The splendour of st. paul's. Jarrold Coulour Publications: Norwich.
St. paul's. Retrieved June 3, 2008, from http://www.stpauls.co.uk/page.aspx.

Site 6: British Museum

2008-06-02T08:49:00.000-06:00

The British Museum can trace its history back to the physician, naturalist, and collector Sir Hans Sloane (The history of the british museum, p. 1). Sloane began his studies in medicine in London and France to pursue his interests in naturalism (Sir hans sloane, p. 1). As a personal physician to the Duke of Albermarle, Sloane traveled to Jamaica where he began a collection of plants and live specimens to bring back to England (Sir hans sloane, p. 1). Over 800 species were brought successfully back to England (Cargill, p. 1). Upon his return to England, Sloane started a medical practice at his home at Number 3 Bloomsbury Street (Cargill, p. 1). This street happens to be the street that the current British Museum is located on today. As Sloane acquired more and more collections from notable collectors such as William Charlton and James Petiver, as well as objects from friends and patients, his home became too small to hold all of his materials. This lead to the purchase of Number 4 Bloomsbury Street to store more of his materials (Sir hans sloane, p. 1).

In 1794, Sloane moved his collections to a manor house in Chelsea (Cargill, p. 1). Sloane diligently continued adding to his horde up until he was over 90 years old (Cargill, p. 1). Sloane's time in Chelsea is still commemorated today by the various places named after him, such as Sloane Square and Hans Crescent (Sir hans sloane, p. 1). By his death in 1753, Sloane had amassed over 71,000 objects and requested in his will that these objects along with herbarium and library be preserved (The history of the british museum, p. 1). In the will, Sloane offered King George II his collection in return for £20,000 for his heirs. If this offer were to be refused, he further stipulated that the collections should then be offered to learning centers abroad (The history of the british museum, p. 1). King George had little interest in the collection, but Parliament under the leadership of Arthur Onslow was persuaded to accept the gift (The history of the british museum, p. 1). The British Museum was officially established by an act of Parliament on June 7, 1753 (The history of the british museum, p. 1).

In the early days of the museum, the collection was divided into three parts: printed books, manuscripts, and natural and artificial productions (History of the collection, p. 1). In 1807, the Department of Antiquities was formed to house the library departments and differentiate between antiquities and natural history (History of the collection, p. 1). In 1861, the Department of Antiquities was further subdivided into Coins and Metal, Greek and Roman Antiquities, Oriental Antiquities, Medieval Antiquities and Ethnography (History of the collection, p. 1). Eventually, the Department of Oriental Antiquities changed its name to Egyptian and Assyrian Antiquities (Histoy of the collection, p. 1). In more recent years, further departments have been created and subdivided to account for the addition of more materials and new collections.

One of the most notable collections in the British Museum is the Elgin Marbles. In 1816, the Earl of Elgin went to the House of Commons and petitioned to purchase the large collection of marbles that he had assembled while serving as the British Ambassador to the Ottoman Court (Cook, p. 4). The collection included sculptures, architectural fragments, and inscriptions from ancient Athens, specifically the Parthenon (Cook, p. 4). In 1962, a gallery was specifically built to house the sculptures from the Parthenon at the expense of Lord Duveen (Cook, p. 4). This collection is not only in important aesthetic quality of the museum, but also provides a look into the cultural history of ancient Greece.

When I first visited the British Museum, I was particularly drawn to the architecture of the Great Court. The Great Court was just one of many additions that have been made to the original Montagu House that was used to hold the original collections (Architecture, p. 1). Much of the museum was expanded using a Greek Revival style (Architecture, p. 1). The Great Hall was designed by architect Lord Foster of Thames Bank and was designed to roof the courtyard and provide access to more galleries (Architecture, p. 1). When the Great Hall was opened in December 2000, it became the the largest covered square in England.

References:
Architecture. Retrieved June 2, 2008, from http://www.britishmuseum.org/the_museum/history_and_the_building/architecture.aspx.
Caygill, M. Creating a great museum: Early collectors and the british museum. Retrieved June 2, 2008, from http://www.fathom.com/course/21701728/session1.html.
Cook, B. (1984). The elgin marbles. British Museum Publications: London.
History of the collection. Retreived June 2, 2008, from http://www.britishmuseum.org/the_museum/history_and_the_building/history_of_the_collection.aspx.
Sir hans sloane. Retrieved June 2, 2008, from
http://www.britishmuseum.org/the_museum/history_and_the_building/sir_hans_sloane.aspx.
The history of the british museum. Retrieved June 2, 2008, from http://www.britishmuseum.org/the_museum/history_and_the_building/general_history.aspx.

Site 5: Buckingham Palace

2008-06-02T05:19:00.000-06:00

Buckingham Palace stands as a powerful symbol of the British monarchy. It may be surprising to consider that Buckingham House became this magnificent palace by accident. Buckingham House was first purchased by George III in 1761 (Buckingham palace, p. 1). George III considered St. James's Palace too grandiose for the kind of quiet domestic life he preferred, so he used Buckingham House as a retreat (Widlake, p. 82). Later, King George gave Buckingham House to his wife, Queen Charlotte, to use as a dower house and became known as the Queen's House (Buckingham palace, p. 1).

The Prince Regent, however, had more ambitious plans for Buckingham House. He summoned the architect John Nash to plan a new palace when he acceded to the throne (Widlake, p. 82). Parliament granted the sum of £200,000 for the building, but the whole allowance did not cover the work required to turn the house into palace (Widlake, p. 82). By 1829, the building costs had escalated to nearly £500,000. Nash doubled the size of the main block by adding a new suite of rooms on the garden side facing west (Buckingham palace, p. 1). The north and south wings were demolished and and rebuilt larger with a triumphal arch (Marble Arch) as the centerpiece of a a large courtyard (Buckinham palace, p. 1).

George IV, however, would never see the completion of the palace. He died in 1830 and his younger brother was left with the task of completing its construction (Hibbert, p. 153). William IV hired a new architect, Edward Blore, to finish the work (Buckingham palace, p. 1). King William never took up residence in the unfinished palace and even offered its services to house Parliament after the fire in 1834 (Buckingham palace, p. 1).

Queen Victoria was the first sovereign to take up residence in Buckinham Palace in July 1837 after her accession to the throne three months prior (Buckinham palace, p. 1). She also was the first monarch to leave from Buckinham Palace to Coronation in 1838 (Buckinham palace, p. 1). Buckingham Palace, however, showed some visible problems that made life in the palace more difficult for Queen Victoria and her family. Few of the lavatories were vented, there were no sinks for the chambermaids on the bedroom floors, the drains were faulty, the bells would not rings, some of the doors would not close, and many of the windows would not open properly (Widlake, p. 83). In addition, there were no nurseries and few rooms for visitors (Buckingham palace, p. 1). The only solution was to move Marble Arch and build a fourth wing. Blore undertook this work with his builder Thomas Cubbitt, and the work was completed in 1847 (Buckingham palace, p. 1). Later additions, such as the gates, the courtyard for the changing of the guard, and the Victoria Memorial were eventually finished by the outbreak of WWI in 1914 (Buckinham palace, p. 1).

During my recent visits to Buckinham Palace, I have only had the opportunity to admire to palace from the outside view. I was amazed at the very organized stately ceremonies that periodically take place there. One of these traditional ceremonies includes the changing of the guard that occurs daily from March through July at 11:30 am. Another tradition is the flying of the Royal Standard when the Queen present at the palace. On all of my visits, the Queen's Royal Standard has been flying at the top of Buckingham Palace. I have not, however, had the privelege of seeing the Queen leave the palace. Perhaps on a future visit I can see the monarch either coming or leaving her official place of residence.

References:
Buckingham palace. Retrieved June 2, 2008, from http://www.royal.gov.uk/output/Page568.asp.
Hibbert, C. (1992). The story of england. Phaidon Press: New York.
Widlake, B. (1979). This beautiful britain. Marshall Cavendish Limited: London.

Site 4: Hampton Court

2008-06-02T01:45:00.000-06:00

Hampton Court can trace its early history all the way back to 1236 when the surrounding land was used to create a grange for the Knights Hospitallers of St. John Jerusalem (Palace origins, p. 1). A grange was a center for an agricultural estate where produce was stored and accounts were kept (Palace origins, p. 1). Excavations and early documentation suggest that the estate originally had very little living accommodation and that the first true tenants did not establish the area as a residential site until the 15th century (Palace origins, p. 1).

The grange for the Knights Hospitallers of St. John Jerusalem was conveniently located between the palaces of Sheen and Byfleet (Palace Origins, p. 1). The grange became a convenient place to accommodate royal visitors. As time passed, the Knights Hospitallers began to rent out many of their estates. The first recorded tenant was the courtier Giles Daubeney who took a lease on the property in 1494 (Palace origins, p. 1). Henry VII even stayed with Daubeney at the estate to escape the pressures of London (Palace origins, p. 1). This greatly increased the popularity of area and inspired Daubeney to make improvements to the great estate.

Daubeney's improvements were eclipsed by the great pomp that the next tenant would add to Hampton Court. After Daubeney's death in 1508, Thomas Wolsey moved in and built a grand palace (Palace origins, p. 1). Wolsey was a vain, arrogant, and very showy man who reveled in extravagant displays of wealth and luxury (Willson, p. 228). Wolsey became the Cardinal and Lord Chancellor of England and served as Henry VIII chief minister for over a decade (Palace origins, p. 1). Wolsey added great chambers and processional routes to accommodate visits from Henry VIII and other important European delegations. In 1528, however, Wolsey lost his position of power when the Pope did not approve Henry VIII's request to divorce Katherine of Aragon (Willson, p. 231). As a result, Henry VIII moved into Hampton Court and it became an official residence for royalty.

While Henry VIII was in power as King of England, he greatly expanded the palace with many extravagant lodgings to accommodate his wives, children, courtiers, visitors, and servants (Magnificent henry, p. 1). After Henry VIII's death, Hampton Court remained a place where all three of his children would stay as a place of retreat (Henry's heirs, p. 1). Hampton Court also played the roles of a palace and a prison for both James I and Charles I of the Stuart monarchy (The stuarts, p. 1). Under the reign of James I, the Puritans were granted permission to create the King James Version of the Bible at the conference in Hampton Court in 1604 (Morgan, p. 319). When William III and Mary II were placed on the throne after the disastrous reign of the Stuarts, Hampton Court became a favorite place for the royal family to live. Christopher Wren was appointed by William and Mary to rebuild the palace. William Talman was later appointed to help in this effort as well. Wren and Talman completely transformed the east and south facades of the palace (William and mary, p. 1). Today, the elegant Baroque exteriors still dominate the palace from the view in the formal gardens (William and mary, p. 1).

In the 18th century, Queen Anne and her predecessors used Hampton Court as a major attraction for hunting (The eighteenth century, p. 1) King George II and Queen Caroline also further embellished the palace to suit their tastes under their royal reign that lasted until 1737. This year marked the last year that the royal family would use Hampton Court as a palace. In 1838, Queen Victoria opened the palace to all the ranks of the public to enjoy and admire (To the present, p. 1).

During my visit to Hampton Court, I enjoyed seeing the progression of history through all the different architectural additions that have been made to the palace over the centuries. I also loved the vast grounds and gardens around the estate. It was apparent that the French styles from William III played a role in shaping the well-groomed and orderly appearance of the various hedges and trees in the grounds. Another part of the palace that fascinated me was the hallway in which Henry VIII dragged Catherine Howard down when he learned that she had been unfaithful to him. Apparently, her ghost is rumored to still be there. I did not sense a supernatural presence, but cameras have supposedly captured strange appearances during the dead of night in that corridor. Hampton Court remains a place of important historical and supernatural significance to the story of England.

References:
Henry's heirs. Retrieved June 2, 2008 from http://www.hrp.org.uk/learninganddiscovery/Discoverthehistoricroyalpalaces/thebuildinghistories/HamptonCourtPalace/Henrythemagnificent.aspx.
Morgan, O. (1999). The oxford history of britain. Oxford University Press: Oxford.
Palace origins. Retrieved June 2, 2008, from http://www.hrp.org.uk/learninganddiscovery/Discoverthehistoricroyalpalaces/thebuildinghistories/HamptonCourtPalace/origins.aspx.
The eighteenth century. Retrieved June 2, 2008, from http://www.hrp.org.uk/learninganddiscovery/Discoverthehistoricroyalpalaces/thebuildinghistories/HamptonCourtPalace/QueenAnnetofinalroyalvisit.aspx.
The stuarts. Retrieved June 2, 2008, from http://www.hrp.org.uk/learninganddiscovery/Discoverthehistoricroyalpalaces/thebuildinghistories/HamptonCourtPalace/TheStuartKings.aspx.
William and mary. Retrieved June 2, 2008, from http://www.hrp.org.uk/learninganddiscovery/Discoverthehistoricroyalpalaces/thebuildinghistories/HamptonCourtPalace/WilliamandMary.aspx.
Willson, D. (1972). A history of england. Holt, Rinehart and Winston: New York.

Site 3: Tower of London

2008-05-26T04:58:00.000-06:00

The Tower of London was begun under the command of William the Conqueror in 1078 (Diehl & Donnelly, p. vii). Today, the only remaining buildings from the original structure include the White Tower and a few sections of the old Roman city wall that are embedded in the curtain wall and scattered around the inner yard (Diehl & Donnelly, p. vii). The Tower was first built to serve as a means of overawing the disaffected and unruly people, as a garrison, and a supply base with fortified centers of administration (Hibbert, p. 48). It stood as a formidable fortress with immensely think walls, high towers, and a moat. This primary purpose of the Tower as a fortress-stronghold remained unchanged up until the 19th century (Norman beginnings, p. 1).

In the centuries since the Normans first began construction, routine changes were brought about by practical needs as wells as repairs for the various fires, seiges, and bombings that have damaged the tower history (Daniel & Donnelly, p. viii). One monarch after another remodelled the complex to suit their individual needs and to adapt to the changing social and political demands of the times (Daniel & Donnelly, p. viii). It has also alternately and simultaneously been used as a zoo, a military garrison, the Royal Treasurery, an arsenal, the Royal Mint, a state office building, and a museum and repository for the Crown Jewels (Daniel & Donnelly, p. viii). Public viewing was first allowed under the reign of Queen Victoria in 1837 and has continued to be an awe-inspiring monument to the world (Nineteenth century tower, p. 1).

One of the most famous functions of the Tower was to hold and torture prisoners and be the site of political executions. When King Henry VIII broke off with the church in Rome, the Tower held many religious and political prisoners, such as Sir Thomas More and Bishop Fisher of Rochester (The tudors, p. 1). Two of King Henry VIII wives, Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard, were also held prisoner and beheaded at the Tower. Henry VIII's progenitors used the Tower to as a place to hold and execute prisoners as well. Edward VI continued the political executions of his father, Mary I imprisoned and executed key Protestant figures that protested against Catholicism and had Lady Jane Grey beheaded, and Elizabeth I packed the Tower with celebrity prisoners rebelling against Protestanism (The tudors, p. 1).

As I toured the Tower of London for the first time, I was overwhelmed with the centuries of history that surrounded me wherever I went. Some highlights of the tour that I thought were particularly interesting included the Bloody Tower where the two young princes were secretly executed within the confines of the tower by Richard III, the Tudor buildings that survived the Great Fire of London in 1616, and the Chapel Royal of St. Peter ad Vincula that holds the bodies of hundreds of historical figures such as Sir Thomas More, John Fisher, Anne Boleyn, Catherine Howard, and Lady Jane Grey. I was also really interesting to learn about the historical significance of the Yoeman Warders ("Beefeaters"). The Yoeman Warders have been the Royal Bodyguard since the 15th century and are commonly called Beefeaters because the king would permit them to eat as much beef as they wanted from the king's table. Today, the Yoeman Warders are required to have served in the armed service with an honorable record for at least twenty-two years. Females have just recently been permitted to serve as Yoemen Warders as well. These service men and women help show how the Tower of London and its history and traiditons are an important part of the story of Britain.

References:
Diehl, D., & Donnelly, M. (2004). Tales from the tower of london. Sutton Publishing: England.
Hibbert, C. (1992). The story of england. Phaidon Press: New York.
Norman beginnings. Retrieved May 26, 2008, from http://www.hrp.org.uk/TowerOfLondon/sightsandstories/buildinghistory/normanbeginnings.aspx.
The tudors. Retrieved May 26, 2008 from, http://www.hrp.org.uk/TowerOfLondon/sightsandstories/buildinghistory/tudors.aspx.

Site 2: Westminster Abbey

2008-05-12T06:49:00.000-06:00

Westminster Abbey can be traced as far back as the 11th century when a community of Benedictine monks was established by Dunstan the Bishop of London (Benedictine monastery, p. 1). Almost a century later, King Edward built his palace close to this monastery and focused his energies to constructing a new church dedicated to St. Peter (Willson, p. 95). He used Norman architects because the architecture in England at the time was rather stagnant (Morgan, p. 116). After the new church was dedicated in 1065, King Edward passed away and his was buried in front of the high altar in the church (History and research, p. 1). King Edward was eventually canonised in 1161 and became St. Edward the Confessor (History and research, p. 1). Today, the shrine to St. Edward the Confessor can still be found within the Abbey.

William the Conqueror traveled to London after the Battle of Hastings in 1066 and chose to be crowned within the Abbey (History and research, p. 1). Since this first cornation, Westminster Abbey has remained a coronation church. The current British Queen, Elizabeth II, is the most recent monarch that was crowned in the Abbey.

In 1245, King Henry III was inspired to build a new abbey church (Willson, p. 106). The church that stands today is mainly from Henry III's building (Art and architecture, p. 1). King Henry used French Gothic cathedrals as models for the abbey. Some specific cathedrals used as models include Reims and Amiens (History and research, p. 1). King Henry, who greatly admired St. Edward the Confessor, built a magnificent shrine to place the body of the deceased saint in (History and research, p. 1; Morgan, p. 95). Henry III's tomb was also placed nearby the shrine after his death. This established the Abbey as a principle place of royal burial up until the 18th century (History and research, p. 1). Another great addition was added under the reign of King Henry VII. He had the new Lady Chapel replace the older 13th century chapel (Art and architecture, p. 1).

When the Benedictine order was removed in 1540 by Henry VIII, Westminster Abbey's liturgical furnishings were removed (History and research, p. 1). However, the Abbey remained the place for royal coronations and burials. This most likely protected the Abbey from vandalism and theft. Under the reign of Mary I, the Abbey was again restored to a monastery. When Elizabeth I began her reign, however, the Abbey was converted into "The Collegiate Church of St. Peter" (History and research, p. 1). The Abbey's two main purposes were to provide a place a worship and educate scholars. Today, the Abbey is still used as a place of worship, but choristers are educated at a separate choir school (History and research, p. 1).

On my recent visit to Westminster Abbey, I was particularly fascinated by the depictions of death portrayed at the various shrines of the ancient decorated dead. The most common death motif used was the human skull. I saw skulls with wings, skulls among flowers, and even skulls layered with gold. These symbols seemed to emphasize the mortality of the human body and to celebrate the escape of the soul from the corruptible body at death. They reminded me of the the importance of creating a legacy for myself to outlive the lifespan of my every aging body.

References:
Art and architecture. Retrieved May 12, 2008, from http://www.westminster-abbey.org/history-research/art-architecture/.
Benectine monastery. Retrieved May 12, 2008, from http://www.westminster-abbey.org/history-research/history/benedictine-monastery/.
History and research. Retrieved May 12, 2008, from http://www.westminster-abbey.org/history-research/history/.
Morgan, O. (1999). The oxford history of britain. Oxford University Press: Oxford.
Willson, D. (1972). A history of england. Holt, Rinehart and Winston: New York.

Site 1: Canterbury Cathedral

2008-05-12T04:27:00.000-06:00

Canterbury Cathedral begins its history back in 597 when Pope Gregory the Great sent St. Augustine to England to establish his seat or cathedra (History and heritage, p. 1). Once in England, St. Augustine was granted permission by King Ethelbert of Kent to preach Christianity. He was also given an ancient church near Canterbury, upon which he built a cathedral (Origins of canterbury, p. 1). In 601, Augustine became the first archbishop of Canterbury and established two bishoprics in kent and London (Willson, p. 18). By the time of Augustine's death, Christianity had been introduced to the three British kingdoms of Kent, Essex, and East Anglia (Willson, p.18).

The catheral acted as a household of the archbishop up to the 10th century (Origins of canterbury, p. 1). In the 10th century, the cathedral became a monastery communtiy under the new Benedictine order (Origins of canterbury, p. 1). This system lasted until the reign of King Henry the VIII. Some changes to the cathedral were made by Archbishop Lefranc, who rebuilt the cathedral as a Norman church in the 1077 (Origins of canterbury, p. 1). Today, Augustine's original cathedral beneath the nave and Lefranc's staircase and north wall in the northwest transept still remain partially intact (Origins of canterbury, p. 1).

During the 12th century, King Henry II resisted the power of the clergy and sought to regain control by instituting legal reform (Willson, p. 80). King Henry's clash with the church evolved into violence when the Archbishop of Canterbury, Thomas Becket, took an uncompromising stand against the King's reforms. In 1170, Thomas Becket was murdered in Canterbury Cathedral and ever since, pilgrims have been attracted to the cathedral to visit the the shrine of St. Thomas Becket (History and heritage, p. 1). Geoffrey Chaucer's Canterbury Tales depicts one such pilgrimage by a mixed group of travellers to the shrine in Canterbury (Randall, p. 35).

Under the rule of King Henry VIII, the cathedral was closed as a monastery and the cathedral was converted into a protestant place of worship (Origins of canterbury, p. 1). It remained, however, a place of prayer. In the 1640s, the cathedral suffered damage at the hands of the Puritans, so extensive repair was needed during the Restoration in 1660 (More recent times, p. 1). The northwest tower was also replaced in the 1830s to prevent a dangerous collapse (More recent times, p. 1). Today, the cathedral still stands as a place of prayer and worship, and continuous efforts are made to preserve it so it can stand as a monument into the future.

During my recent visit to Canterbury Cathedral, I was particularly impressed with the preserved history within the crypt. The foundations of the cathedral seen in the crypt date back to the cathedral's beginnings in the 1070s (J. Talbot, personal communication, May 7, 2008). Within some of the small chapels, some ancient painted images remain intact on the plaster walls. The faded reds, yellows, and blues alluded to the magnificent grandeur of the entire cathedral before the the iconoclastic purging under the reign of King Henry VIII.

Another part of the cathedral that was particularly impressive to me was the great stained glass casting beautiful light into the cold stone passageways. Many of the windows survive from the late 12th and early 13th centuries (History and heritage, p. 2). Although some of the windows have suffered heavy damage from the historic iconoclastic rampages, the cathedral uses its very own conservation studio to replace the glazing using historic designs and methods (History and heritage, p. 2). These conservation efforts along with many others help preserve this monument as a place of worship and refuge for future pilgrims.

References:
Heritage and history, retrieved May 12, 2008, from http://www.canterbury-cathedral.org/history/index.aspx.
More recent times, retrieved May 12, 2008, from http://www.canterbury-cathedral.org/history/history.aspx.
Origins of canterbury, retrieved May 12, 2008, from http://www.canterbury-cathedral.org/history/history.aspx.
Randall, J. (1981) Understanding britain. Oxford: England.
Willson, D. (1972) A history of britain. Holt, Rinehart and Winston: New York.

Dear Readers:

2008-05-12T04:10:00.000-06:00

This blog was started to house my homework assignments for my British History class. My professors will be reading and grading the research portions of this site. I will try to entertain you by posting other entries as well as my assignments. I plan on continuing this site after this course, so please stay tuned.

Sincerely,
Medicus