Lippincott's Magazine of Popular Literature and Science, Volume 11, No. 26, May, 1873

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

23095

Title

Lippincott's Magazine of Popular Literature and Science, Volume 11, No. 26, May, 1873

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

This 1873 issue of Lippincott's Magazine offers a vivid journey through the rugged landscapes of Kabylia and the Isle of Lewis. Featuring travelogues on North African sheikhs, ancient stone circles, and the life of French poet Madame Desbordes-Valmore, the collection blends scientific observation with sentimental romance. Readers will find rich descriptions of mountain life, historical reflections on Vandal origins, and a touching biography of a real-life 'Tom Brown,' all presented with Victorian charm and literary grace.

Summary up to 500 words

Published in May 1873, this volume of Lippincott's Magazine presents a diverse collection of travelogues, fiction, and memoirs that explore themes of heritage, antiquity, and moral integrity. The opening piece, "The Roumi in Kabylia," offers a vivid travelogue of the isolated city of Kalaa in the Atlas Mountains. The author contrasts the Kabyle people with coastal Arabs, suggesting a distinct Germanic or Vandalic heritage for the former. This theory is supported by descriptions of the Kabyles' sturdy physical features, European-style architecture, and the cross tattoos worn by women, which are interpreted as evidence of a forgotten Christian past. The narrative also highlights the unique social freedom of Kabyle women and the severe water scarcity that defines life in the high mountains. The volume then shifts to the Isle of Lewis with a romantic and antiquarian tale featuring characters Mackenzie, Sheila, and Lavender. The story balances dialogue with a deep curiosity regarding ancient stone circles and prehistoric monuments. A supernatural element is introduced through Eily, a ghostly figure who watches for spirits near the water's edge, adding a layer of mystery to the island's landscape. The characters engage in romantic exchanges while contemplating the origins and significance of the island's stone circles, contrasting the cheerful present with a imagined, desolate past. A significant portion of the volume is dedicated to a memoir of George Hughes, a real-life counterpart to the fictional Tom Brown. The text chronicles Hughes's life from the son of a Berkshire squire to a Rugby captain, Oxford graduate, and lawyer. The memoir emphasizes his moral integrity and his divergence from his younger brother's socialist views, illustrating a conflict between traditional Tory values and emerging social reform movements. After retiring from active legal practice, Hughes dedicates himself to family life and local service, including farming and organizing reading rooms. The volume concludes with a list of contemporary book reviews covering topics ranging from telegraphy to poetry, reflecting the intellectual interests of the era.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Science
• Literature