The Life and Works of Robert Wood: Classicist and Traveller (1717-1771)

The Life and Works of Robert Wood (1717-1771) commemorates the Irish classicist and traveller on the 250th anniversary of his death and provides the general reader with a source book for the fascinating life and career of a much-neglected figure in the realm of Irish eighteenth-century travels and antiquarianism.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 204 pages
Publication date: 06 January 2022
Publisher: Archaeopress

The Life and Works of Robert Wood (1717-1771) pays tribute to the Irish classicist and traveler on the 250th anniversary of his passing, presenting a comprehensive study that serves as a valuable resource for understanding the captivating life and remarkable career of a relatively overlooked figure in the realm of Irish eighteenth-century travels and antiquarianism. The book commences by establishing the historical backdrop of eighteenth-century journeys to the East, subsequently delving into the primary sources originating from Wood's own eastern voyages, as well as the pertinent literary sources accessible to him prior to, during, and after his travels. It then offers an extensive and much-needed biographical account of Robert Wood, with a particular focus on his Irish and English patrons. This is followed by an examination of the key outcomes of the second tour (1750-1751), notably his three pioneering books: Ruins of Palmyra (1753), Ruins of Balbec (1757), and The Original Genius of Homer (1775). The text concludes by considering Robert Wood's immense legacy, encompassing the widespread popularity of his books, the diverse range and high quality of portraits commissioned by his friends and associates, his significant contributions to the study of classical literature, his influence on architectural drawing in late eighteenth- and nineteenth-century Europe, and the cultural significance of his work on building design. Additionally, the text reflects on the somewhat questionable nature of his works, particularly in light of the fact that his second voyage to the East and the entire production of the first two books were funded by his friend Dawkins, whose wealth originated from a slave plantation in Jamaica.

Weight: 450g
Dimension: 155 x 334 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781803271767