Democracy, Esther, Mont Saint Michel and Chartres, The Education of Henry Adams

Most readers approach the works of Henry Adams(a 19th Century mind for all time)by sampling first his "Autobiography" which stands above most from that century. That is only a starting point in measuring the comprehensive intellect of this man. I will only contain my admiration to his political novel, "Democracy" here, which I highly recommend to all whose careers or interest focus on our working government or political science in general. It is surprising how this nation, a reputed democracy, continues to look to England for its TV fodder on politics while this political jewel with measurable comparisons to political reality is overlooked. How modern the story-line is with 2 heroines, the Lee sisters (Madeleine and Sybil)who elect to drop in on Washington society as observers of the power intrigues without getting trapped or harmed. It took me by surprise how brilliant Adams was in his selection. You are introduced to the sisters who become very human and protective of one another as the political intrigues multiply, creating a tension between them, natural and unpredictable, while they create their own stir in the inner-Washington society. The tension builds as the sisters attempt to maintain their own sibling affection caught in the web of intrigue that hinges on private correspondence read only at the proper time which happens to be 8 pages before the end which delivers an explosive climax to their stay in Washington. Before reading the novel, I was aware that Adams used the Grant administration for his backdrop, but I was completely blown away how he managed to use the movements of the sisters as the fulcrum to the story, to unmask the fools and fraudsters so brilliantly. The dressing-down Madeleine gives to Sen. Ratcliffe is worth re-reading. It goes without saying, that if things have not improved in Washington D.C. through the years, the reason for a legislative paralysis lies within this story alone. You will shout with joy at the finish. But on reflection realizing this is a work of fiction, one only hopes our current leaders weigh the political stakes with the same clarity as the Lee sisters.

I first came across 'Chartres' in a private library of leather bound manuscripts, some from the 1500s. I started to read it but never finished as life ran away and it had its own place on a distinguished shelf. Over the years Henry Adams popped up again, and again, and again as an influential friend of influential people. He was known for the beauty of his writing styles as he wrote prose as well as commentary. Any one who had him as a house guest considered it a privilege and source of prestige. Now I can visit with Henry Adams any time and share his musings because of this reasonably priced collection.

Mont St. Michel is in Normandy [you remember the Normans, they're the ones who invaded England in 1066 and put William the Duke on the British throne, changing our Germanic language forever by making French half of our vocabulary. We don't say 'cow' and 'pig' when they come to the table, it's 'beef' and 'pork']. The great Gothic cathedral at Chartres was built about 1200 and is glorious]. These are the basis for Henry Adams [a descendant of our two Adams presidents] to range through the obligation we owe the past and the wonder it has conferred on us. How many ancestors do you have in 1,000 years? More than a thousand! In 2,000 years? More than a million. A great read.

good book, good price, fast delivery - Thanks

I believe that Henry Adams was an extraordinary visionary and interpreter of the developing world in his age. His interpretation and studies of 12th century religion is fir me deeply inspirational.His writings about Chartes and Mont Saint Michel are a unique gift to our religious understandings.

Henry Adams should be required reading for all US students. This version of his writings - Library of America series includes all his best writings in a small book. Amazon delivered as agreed.