Brian Dolan (1) (1970–)

The life and accomplishments of Josiah Wedgwood, one of the great industrialists and innovators of the eighteenth century. I found this book very interesting, as Dolan covers not only the technical and commercial aspects of Wedgwood's achievements, but also his intellectual development, and the changes in the world he lived in. He also places due, but not undue, emphasis on the implications of Wedgwood's status as a religious Dissenter (that is, non-Anglican Christian) in the England of the mid-eighteenth century, and gives a good many details on Wedgwood's associations with men like Erasmus Darwin, Joseph Priestly, Matthew Boulton, and James Watt, as well as the other members of the Lunar Society.… (mais)

I was delighted to be able to "live" 18th century travel through the eyes of the woman that Dolan brings to life. I am especially glad not to be travelling like they did - airport security gates are a much aggravation as I can take.

Dolan takes his topic broadly. The book is not just a recounting of travel incidents -- it spends considerable time on the significance of being abroad, particularly for those women who spend time in France during the Revolution, eventually fleeing as it turned into the Terror. He conveys a good sense of the differences between that time and this, when views and videos of faraway places are immediately and widely available.

This book is particularly set apart by Dolan's sensitive examination of the women's status in their society. I was particularly touched by his discussion of the double-bind that made "frivolous" if they concentrated on domestic and personal matters, but "unwomanly and unnatural" if they attempted to broaden their horizons. I was aware that women were not usually well-educated in this era, but surprised to learn of the panic engendered if they attempted self-education.

An excellent book for those interested in this era, in travel, or in the historical situation of women.… (mais)