History in Ruins A Series of Letters to a Lady, Embodying a Popular Sketch of the History of Architecture

History in Ruins: a Series of Letters to a Lady, Embodying a Popular Sketch of the History of Architecture
By George Godwin

Preface Dedicatory

The history of the world is forcibly illustrated by the history of its buildings; and the tale, so far from being dry and repulsive, is singularly curious and interesting. In the following pages an endeavour has been made to convey this history to general readers in popular language and a pleasant manner, and to interest them in an art which affects not merely our Homes and the provision of structures for the fitting discharge of public duties, but the artistic progress, the aesthetic culture, and the refined enjoyments of a people;-an art which is the eldest of the three, and the guardian and encourager of her sisters, an art that has recorded in stone and marble the thoughts and doings of nations, and studded the world with objects of beauty, places of reverence, -and awakeners of sentiment. The various shapes that Architecture took, -the characteristics and date of the styles which have prevailed amongst different people and at different times, -are pointed out, so that any may with slight attention read, on the face of such buildings and monuments as they may visit, their age and story.

It is not unusual to find even educated men admitting, without any feeling of shame, their entire ignorance of Architecture, both as regards its history and principles. This surely ought not to be, and need not be. The general history of the art, and the leading features of Architecture as a science, should be communicated to the youth of both sexes and of all grades before they leave school. The greatest success that can be desired for this little volume is, that it may aid in leading to such a step.

I inscribe it, with warm expressions of regard and respect, to the Amiable and Accomplished Friend by whom, feeling the want of some such manual, the letters composing it were suggested; and I ask for it the kindly consideration of all who agree with me in thinking that its object is a worthy one. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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