A Wanderer in Venice, by E.V. Lucas

Description

Illustrated in colour, and first published in 1914, this hardback travel book entitled “A Wanderer in Venice, Illustrated in Colour” is by E.V. Lucas.

The publisher is Methuen & Co Ltd, of 36 Essex Street W.C. London.

With sixteen illustrations in colour by Harry Morley, there are also thirty-two photographs from paintings and a map.

If you love travel, history and Venice, this hardback piece of history would suit your bookcase.

There’s some light foxing on some of the pages, but the book is in otherwise fair condition for it’s age, and is entirely readable. The protective paper around the prints is all in place.

About This Book

“A Wanderer in Venice” by E.V. Lucas is a charming and insightful travelogue that transports readers to the captivating and mysterious city of Venice. First published in 1914, the book has become a classic of travel literature, offering readers a unique and personal perspective on the city’s history, culture, and people.

The author, E.V. Lucas, was a renowned English essayist, novelist, and travel writer who had a deep fascination with Venice. In “A Wanderer in Venice,” Lucas shares his observations and reflections on the city during his many visits, painting a vivid and evocative picture of its streets, canals, and landmarks.

The book is divided into a series of chapters, each of which focuses on a different aspect of Venice. The first chapter, for example, explores the city’s unique geography and how it has shaped its culture and history. Lucas describes the winding canals and narrow streets that crisscross the city, and how they create a sense of mystery and enchantment that is unique to Venice.

In subsequent chapters, Lucas delves into the city’s architecture, art, and history, offering readers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past and the influences that have shaped its culture. He visits the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica, two of the city’s most famous landmarks, and describes their intricate architecture and stunning artwork in detail. He also explores the city’s many museums, galleries, and churches, each of which offers a unique insight into Venice’s rich and complex cultural heritage.

Throughout the book, Lucas also offers personal anecdotes and observations that add a touch of humor and warmth to the narrative. He describes his encounters with the city’s colorful inhabitants, including street vendors, gondoliers, and artists, and shares his own experiences of getting lost in the labyrinthine streets of the city. These personal touches help to make the book feel more intimate and relatable, and give readers a sense of what it might be like to explore Venice for themselves.

One of the strengths of “A Wanderer in Venice” is its rich and evocative prose. Lucas’s writing is descriptive and lyrical, capturing the beauty and mystery of Venice in a way that is both vivid and engaging. His descriptions of the city’s architecture and artwork are particularly noteworthy, as he brings to life the intricate details and hidden meanings that make them so fascinating.

Another strength of the book is its historical and cultural context. Lucas draws upon his extensive knowledge of Venice’s history and culture to provide readers with a deeper understanding of the city and its people. He explores the influences of Byzantine, Gothic, and Renaissance art and architecture, and how they have shaped the city’s identity over time. He also provides insights into the city’s political and social history, offering readers a glimpse into the complex and often turbulent forces that have shaped Venice’s past.

However, it’s worth noting that “A Wanderer in Venice” is a product of its time, and some readers may find Lucas’s attitudes towards race and gender to be outdated or offensive. Additionally, the book’s focus on the city’s more tourist-friendly aspects may not appeal to those who are looking for a more in-depth exploration of Venice’s culture and history.

Overall, “A Wanderer in Venice” is a delightful and engaging travelogue that offers readers a unique and personal perspective on one of the world’s most fascinating cities. Its evocative prose, rich historical and cultural context, and personal anecdotes make it a standout addition to the genre of travel literature, and a must-read for anyone with an interest in Venice or Italian culture.