Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, "Echinoderma" to "Edward, prince of Wales" / Volume 8, Slice 10

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Gutenberg ID

34992

Title

Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, "Echinoderma" to "Edward, prince of Wales" / Volume 8, Slice 10

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

This volume from the Eleventh Edition of the Encyclopædia Britannica offers authoritative entries on diverse subjects, ranging from the biological classification of echinoderms to the reign of Edward VII and the biography of the Black Prince. Written by various experts, it provides a comprehensive, scholarly overview of arts, sciences, and general information from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Summary up to 500 words

Volume VIII, Slice 10 of the Encyclopædia Britannica, Eleventh Edition, presents a scholarly collection of articles spanning natural history, European politics, and royal biography. The volume opens with a comprehensive examination of Echinoderma, the phylum of 'urchin-skinned' animals. Drawing on the foundational work of Johannes Müller and subsequent research by the late 19th century, the text details the scientific evolution of understanding these creatures, from sea-urchins and starfish to crinoids. It highlights the impact of major expeditions, particularly the 'Challenger,' which revealed new abyssal species and advanced knowledge of embryology and fossil records. The article traces the transition from early descriptive natural history to a modern systematic approach, emphasizing the importance of fossil evidence in reconstructing the genealogy of these animals. The volume then shifts to historical and political entries, focusing prominently on the reign of King Edward VII. Described as 'Edward the Peacemaker,' the narrative details his pivotal diplomatic efforts to strengthen British ententes with France and Russia, notably through the 1907 Anglo-Russian agreement. His personal influence is credited with resolving Anglo-German tensions, culminating in a cordial state visit to the Kaiser in Berlin in 1909. The text also covers the constitutional crises of his reign, his health struggles, and his death in 1910, portraying him as a constitutional monarch who successfully rehabilitated the idea of English kingship by bringing the Crown into active touch with all sections of society. A significant portion is dedicated to the Black Prince, the eldest son of Edward III. The biography chronicles his military campaigns during the Hundred Years' War, including his knighting at La Hogue and his command at the Battle of Crécy. It details his governance of Aquitaine, his marriage to Joan, Countess of Kent, and his successful military expedition to restore Peter the Cruel to the throne of Castile in 1367. The narrative concludes with his declining health, his resignation of his principality, and his death in 1376, leaving behind an only son who would become King Richard II. Together, these articles serve as a repository of factual knowledge, reflecting the scholarly consensus and historical understanding of the early 20th century.

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Categories

• Encyclopedias and dictionaries