Oxford History of Western Music: Music from the Earliest Notations to the Sixteenth Century

Originally published: 2005. New introductions and prefaces added to each volume. ,Kenilworth is a historical novel by Walter Scott that centres on the royal court romance, intrigue, and mystery between Queen Elizabeth I and the Earl of Leicester. Once again, Scott talks a lot about historical places – here, the Kenilworth Castle, and describes them in perfect detail, adding to the overall air of authenticity of his narrative. A compelling storytelling and the enjoyable, often humorous and heroic adventures makes this novel a must for connoisseurs of historical romances and Walter Scott's works. ,'The Abbot' is a historical fiction novel about Mary Queen of Scots' thrilling escape from prison and is considered by many to be one of Walter Scott's finest works. The gripping novel continues the story of Halbert and Mary Glendinning from 'The Monastery' but can easily be read on its own. The protagonist is a poor orphan boy, Roland who is adopted by Halbert and Mary. Many years later, Roland is sent to spy on Mary Queen of Scots while she is imprisoned, but he falls in love with her attendant Catherine, and they plot to help her escape. 'The Abbot' features some of Scott's finest dramatic writing as true identities are revealed, brutal battles ensue, and forbidden romances blossom over the course of the novel. Scott depicts the Scottish countryside beautifully with his poetic prose while providing a humanist perspective on religion and romance. Celebrated widely at the time of its release, 'The Abbot' remains entertaining to this day and should be read by fans of Scott and romantic adventures. ,If you can´t choose a book because you´re tempted to a certain extent by everything, but nothing specific, then you´ve probably come to the right place. The author of this book is looking for the fabled philosopher´s stone and perhaps even the Holy Grail of life management. He searches for inspiration in many areas and looks for connections where you wouldn´t expect to find any. The author states in his book: We live in a decadent period of the modern Middle Ages. Blinded by millions of bright screens and phone displays, we live in a time of darkness. We have stopped noticing what is essential. We are hurtling at terrifying speed somewhere, with no idea of the destination. We need to escape this trap and experience a new Renaissance.