Most Popular Books by Hilaire Belloc

In "More Beasts (For Worse Children)," Hilaire Belloc employs a playful yet acerbic literary style to elucidate the follies and foibles of human behavior through the lens of anthropomorphized animals. This collection of cautionary tales is imbued with Belloc''s characteristic wit and dark humor, offering a rich tapestry of moral lessons wrapped in engaging verse. The book operates within the broader context of children''Äôs literature at the turn of the 20th century, a period marked by a burgeoning interest in stories that entertained while simultaneously instructing young readers about the moral compass of society. Each beast embodies various shortcomings prevalent in children and adults alike, serving as both a reflection and a critique of societal norms. Hilaire Belloc, a prominent figure in Edwardian literature, was deeply influenced by his diverse cultural background and extensive education. His experiences as a French and English writer, coupled with his fervent belief in the importance of moral instruction, paved the way for this unique work. Belloc''s layered understanding of humanity, intertwined with his own childhood experiences, inspired him to pen these whimsical yet insightful tales aimed at older children and parents alike. "More Beasts (For Worse Children)" is an essential read for both young and mature audiences. Richly illustrated and profoundly entertaining, it serves as a gateway to discussions about ethics and behavior in an accessible format. Belloc''s vivid characters and incisive critiques encourage readers to reflect on their own actions and the world around them, making this book a timeless addition to any literary collection.

In this book, pivotal to all his historical insights, Belloc answers the question: What made Europe? He shows it was not the barbarians nor the Protestant Reformation, but the Catholic Faith that made Europe (and the worldwide civilisation produced by Europe). Protestantism gravely wounded this our civilisation, and only the Catholic Faith can rejuvenate it. It must return to that Faith or perish! This is a tremendous eye-opener on where we are today and where we must go from here! (Goodreads)

In this new edition of a classic work, the great Catholic apologist and historian Hilaire Belloc examines the five most destructive heretical movements in Christianity: Arianism, Mohammedanism (Islam), Albigensianism, Protestantism, and Modernism. Belloc describes how these movements began, how they spread, and how they have continued to influence the world. He accurately predicts the re- emergence of militant Islam and its violent aggression against Western civilization. When we hear the word "heresies", we tend to think of distant centuries filled with religious quarrels that seemed important at the time but are no longer relevant. Belloc shows that the heresies of olden times are still with us, sometimes under different names and guises, and that they still shape our world.

Excerpt: "The Capitalist State in Proportion as It Grows Perfect Grows Unstable:—It can of its nature be but a transitory phase lying between an earlier and a later stable state of society—The two internal strains which render it unstable—(a) The conflict between its social realities and its moral and legal basis—(b) The insecurity and insufficiency to which it condemns free citizens—The few possessors can grant or withhold livelihood from the many non-possessors—Capitalism is so unstable that it dares not proceed to its own logical conclusion, but tends to restrict competition among owners, and insecurity and insufficiency among non-owners."

In "First and Last," Hilaire Belloc presents a compelling exploration of faith and reason, deftly intertwining personal narrative with philosophical inquiry. This collection of essays reflects Belloc''Äôs distinctive literary style, characterized by clarity, wit, and a deep-seated conviction in the moral underpinnings of existence. Engaging with themes such as belief, doubt, and the human condition, Belloc navigates the complexities of early 20th-century thought, offering profound insights that resonate in a rapidly changing world. The work is both a critical reflection on societal issues and a meditative journey towards the essence of existence itself. Hilaire Belloc, a prolific author and influential figure in literature and politics, was deeply shaped by his Catholic faith and experiences in a divided Europe. His background as a historian and biographer underscores the work''Äôs rich intertextuality, drawing from a wide array of sources to illuminate the interplay between personal conviction and universal truths. Belloc''Äôs fervent belief in the importance of tradition and morality informs his thoughtful, often provocative arguments throughout the essays. This book is highly recommended for those who seek to deepen their understanding of the philosophical and theological dimensions of life. Belloc''Äôs eloquent prose and incisive analysis invite readers to reflect on their own beliefs while engaging with timeless questions about faith and existence. "First and Last" serves both as a profound intellectual journey and as a personal testament to the enduring power of conviction.

Hilaire Belloc''s *The Bad Child''s Book of Beasts* is a playful and witty collection of humorous poems that introduce mischievous and disobedient animals to young readers. Written in a light and humorous tone, the book serves as both entertainment and a moral lesson for children. Belloc''s literary style in this book is characterized by his clever rhymes and whimsical illustrations, making it a delightful read for any young audience. The book is set in a fantastical world where animals exhibit human-like behavior, providing a fresh and imaginative take on traditional morality tales. Belloc''s use of satire in depicting these misbehaving beasts adds a humorous twist to the overall narrative. Hilaire Belloc, a prolific writer and poet, drew inspiration for *The Bad Child''s Book of Beasts* from his own experiences as a father and educator. His deep understanding of children''s literature and his desire to entertain and educate young minds are evident in the whimsical and relatable nature of the poems. Belloc''s clever wordplay and captivating storytelling make this book a timeless classic that continues to enchant readers of all ages. I highly recommend *The Bad Child''s Book of Beasts* to parents, educators, and anyone who enjoys witty and charming literature. Belloc''s creative depiction of mischievous animals offers a captivating blend of entertainment and moral lessons, making it a must-read for anyone seeking a delightful and imaginative literary experience.

Excellent article about the evils of what he calls "the official Press," how it suppresses some news, distorts others, or invents a few, as a part of the political agenda of its owners or advertising sponsors, never in favour of the public. He also considers how the free Press, however puny and subject to boycott, can try to launch a never-ending fight against the official press. (Goodreads)

Here the great Belloc shows that ever since the disaster of the Protestant Reformation, Western civilization (which was formed by the Catholic Faith) has been coming apart--since Calvinism opened the door to usury, unbridled competition, the domination of the mind by money, and ultimately the return of slavery. Belloc says our 2 choices are a return to Catholicism or chaos! Essential for anyone who would understand our world today!

It is with the drama as with plastic art and many other things: the plain man feels that he has a right to put in his word, but he is rather afraid that the art is beyond him, and he is frightened by technicalities. After all, these things are made for the plain man; his applause, in the long run and duly tested by time, is the main reward of the dramatist as of the painter or the sculptor. But if he is sensible he knows that his immediate judgment will be crude. However, here goes.

This volume contains all of the old favorites over which Hilaire Belloc’s admirers have been chuckling since the end of the 19th century—and the original illustrations by B.T.B. and Nicolas Bentley. It also contains many later verses in the same sly vein. Here you meet again the Horrible Examples (old favorites if you are very fortunate): Matilda, who told lies and was Burned to Death; Sarah Byng, who could not read and was tossed into a Thorny Hedge by a Bull; Lord Henry Chase, who got into a Libel Case; and the curiously instructive beasts who range from microbes to frozen mammoths, all of them inhabiting Mr. Belloc’s private zoological park. The republicationof these verses in one handsome volume is cause for rejoicing, especially among wise children, who will judge this edition of Cautionary Verses to be the ideal book for the education and edification of their parents.

This masterful volume from Anglo-French writer, Hilaire Belloc, details the 90-mile pilgrimage of four men, each character representing a different aspect of the author’s personality. The Four Men: A Farrago follows the long pilgrimage of the characters Myself, Grizzlebeard, the Poet, and the Sailor as they journey on foot across Sussex, England. Across the span of five days, this enchanting and deeply emotional novel explores the inner workings of Hilaire Belloc’s mind and displays the author’s love of his childhood home. The book opens with Belloc directly addressing the county of Sussex and he spends much of the novel expressing his sadness at the recent diminishing of Sussex’s traditional customs. A poignant homage, The Four Men: A Farrago was first published in 1911.

This book presents rhyming accounts of the consequences of misconduct.

This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact, and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore, you will see the original copyright references, library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world), and other notations in the work. This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work. As a reproduction of a historical artifact, this work may contain missing or blurred pages, poor pictures, errant marks, etc. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.

Joseph Hilaire Pierre Ren Belloc (1870-1953) was one of the most prolific writers in England during the early twentieth century. His best travel writing has secured a permanent following. The Path to Rome (1902), an account of a walking pilgrimage he made from central France across the Alps and down to Rome, has remained continuously in print. More than a mere travelogue, The Path to Rome contains descriptions of the people and places he encountered, his drawings in pencil and in ink of the route, humour, poesy, and the reflections of a large mind turned to the events of his time as he marches along his solitary way. At every turn, Belloc shows himself to be profoundly in love with Europe and with the Faith that he claims has produced it. Two of his best known non-fiction works are The Servile State (1912) and Europe and Faith (1920). Among his other works are: Avril: Being Essays on the Poetry of the French Renaissance (1904), The Historic Thames (1907), On Nothing and Kindred Subjects (1908), Hills and the Sea (1913), A General Sketch of the European War (1915), and The Free Press (1917).

This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact, and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore, you will see the original copyright references, library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world), and other notations in the work. This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.As a reproduction of a historical artifact, this work may contain missing or blurred pages, poor pictures, errant marks, etc. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.

This historic book may have numerous typos, missing text or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1910. Not illustrated. Excerpt: ... The Death of the Comic Author DEGREES *c- COMIC Author of deserved repute was lodg ing at the beginning of this month in a house with broken windows, in a court off the Gray''s Inn Road. He had undertaken to produce a piece of Humorous Fiction to the length of 75,000 words. The Comic Author, a man of experience (for this was his forty-seventh book), had sat down to begin his task. He calculated how long it would last him. He was good for 1500 words a day, if they were short words, and even when doom or accident compelled him to the use of long ones he could manage from 1163 to 1247. The specification was lucid and simple. There was to be nothing in the work that could offend the tenderness of the patriot nor the ease of good manners, let alone the canons of decency and right living. A powerful love interest which he was compelled under Clause VII of his contract to introduce immediately after each of the wittiest passages had been deftly woven into the fabric, and (as was clearly laid down in Clause IX) no matter already published might appear in those virgin pages. If any did so, be sure it was so veiled by the tranposition of phrases and other slight changes of manner as to escape the publisher''s eye. So far so good. But upon the 13th of August, a day of great beauty, but of excessive heat, the Comic Author, sitting at his desk, was struck by Apollo, the God and patron of literary men. It was the custom of the Comic Author, who was a teetotaler and a vegetarian, to wear a soft shirt entirely made of wool and devoid of a collar, which ornament, he was assured by Members of the Faculty, exercised a prejudicial effect upon the health. It was equally his custom to compose his famous periods with his back turned to the light. This habit he had also adopted at the

Hilaire Belloc retells the legend of Tristan and Iseult, drawing from medieval texts.

Hilaire Belloc''s landmark study Characters of the Reformation argues that Western Europe''s break from the Catholic Church was driven by a land-grab and looting of Church property by European noblemen. Belloc has little admiration for the so-called leaders of the time and credits the Reformation to behind-the-scenes players.

Unlike some other reproductions of classic texts (1) We have not used OCR(Optical Character Recognition), as this leads to bad quality books with introduced typos. (2) In books where there are images such as portraits, maps, sketches etc We have endeavoured to keep the quality of these images, so they represent accurately the original artefact. Although occasionally there may be certain imperfections with these old texts, we feel they deserve to be made available for future generations to enjoy.

Taken from the larger work, "The Great Heresies", this chapter on Islam is especially relevant in light of current events; in it Belloc accurately predicts the renewal of Jihadist aggression towards Western Civilization.