Eggplant.place

147d

Discover the Self-Taught Genius of Leonardo da Vinci

By Shiori Chen

https://mymodernmet.com/self-taught-leonardo-da-vinci/

Leonardo da Vinci at PG:
https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/author/1629

#books #art #history

Leonardo da Vinci (1452-1519). Author (1452-1519)
Treatise on painting, by Leonardo da Vinci : published in Paris in 1651 by Raphael du Fresne : with a portrait of Leonardo da Vinci and explanatory drawings

This portrait is based on an engraving by Raphael Morghen (1758–1833), an Italian engraver known for his detailed and refined prints. Morghen's engraving itself was inspired by what was believed to be a self-portrait of Leonardo da Vinci. However, the accuracy of this attribution has been debated by art historians.

The original self-portrait attributed to Leonardo is a red chalk drawing on paper (circa 1512), housed in the Royal Library of Turin, Italy. It depicts an elderly man with long hair and a flowing beard, often considered to represent Leonardo in his later years.

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146d

#OTD in 1924.

Seán O'Casey's drama Juno and the Paycock opens at the Abbey Theatre, Dublin. It is set in the working-class tenements of Dublin in the early 1920s, during the Irish Civil War period.

It is the second of his "Dublin Trilogy" – the other two being The Shadow of a Gunman (1923) and The Plough and the Stars (1926).

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Juno_and_the_Paycock

#books #literature #drama #theatre

Poster for the 1930 film “Juno and the Paycock” (alternate title “The Shame of Mary Boyle”).

Since it was directed by Alfred Hitchcock and based on Seán O’Casey’s acclaimed play, the poster have been designed in the early sound era’s style, featuring bold typography and theatrical imagery.

A strong central image, possibly depicting key characters like Juno Boyle (a struggling mother) and Captain Boyle (her irresponsible husband).

A somber or dramatic color scheme reflecting the film’s serious tone.

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58d

Why G.K. Chesterton?

What was it that this non-expert, the funny fat man, had to say? Why did his works become for many a sort of bible? How was it that an artist-turned-journalist was accepted as the idea man as well as the entertainer of people?

By Leo R. Ward

https://theimaginativeconservative.org/2025/05/gk-chesterton-leo-r-ward.html

G.K. Chesterton at PG:
https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/search/?query=G.K.+Chesterton

#books #literature

Chesterton in his office

Unknown author - Crisis Magazine: http://www.crisismagazine.com/2012/new-study-marred-by-old-cliches-about-preconciliar-catholic-writers

He is seen seated, likely at a desk, with his characteristic imposing figure, round face, and thick spectacles. His hair is tousled and he wears a typical dark suit, with a cravat.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/G._K._Chesterton#/media/File:G._K._Chesterton_at_work.jpg

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146d

#OTD in 1873.

The first performance of W. S. Gilbert and Gilbert Arthur à Beckett's play The Happy Land at the Royal Court Theatre, London parodies William Ewart Gladstone, Robert Lowe, and Acton Smee Ayrton, respectively the prime minister, Chancellor of the Exchequer, and First Commissioner of Works.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Happy_Land

W. S. Gilbert at PG:
https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/author/395

#books #literature #theatre

Scene from "The Happy Land" by W. S. Gilbert (as F. Latour Tomline) and Gilbert á Beckett, showing the actors dressed as Gladstone, Lowe, and Ayrton. Illustrator D. H. Friston.

The illustration shows a theatrical moment where three male figures—representing political figures William Ewart Gladstone (the British Prime Minister), Robert Lowe, and Acton Smee Ayrton—are dressed in 19th-century attire, complete with top hats and formal coats.

One of them, wielding a cane, appears to be in a dramatic confrontation. These figures are caricatures, highlighting the play’s satirical critique of the government.

In the foreground and background, a group of women in flowing, classical-style dresses appear to be reacting expressively—some in distress, others gesturing theatrically.

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146d

#OTD in 1912.

Frieda Weekley meets D. H. Lawrence in Nottingham. She met D. H. Lawrence, a former student of her husband's; they soon fell in love and eloped to Germany. During their stay Lawrence was arrested for spying; after the intervention of Frieda's father, the couple walked south over the Alps to Italy. In 1914, following her divorce, Frieda and D.H. Lawrence married.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frieda_Lawrence

D.H. Lawrence at PG:
https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/author/123

#books #literature

David Herbert Lawrence & Frieda von Richthofen, 1914.

The image typically shows them sitting close together, reflecting their deep and unconventional relationship.

David Herbert Lawrence, known for his intense gaze and bohemian appearance, is often depicted with unkempt hair and a beard, dressed in simple, rugged clothing that suggests his rejection of traditional societal norms.

Frieda, who came from an aristocratic German background, appears confident and free-spirited, sometimes wearing a long dress or a coat suitable for the countryside.

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171d

Currently reading Agatha Christie's "The Murder on the Links" which I downloaded free of charge thanks to @gutenberg_org

A top-notch book. Hercule Poirot mysteries are such a joy. Thoroughly enjoying it. Get your copy at:

https://gutenberg.org/ebooks/58866

#Books #Bookstodon

A book cover for The Murder On The Links by Agatha Christie

The image is of a narrow dagger, surmounted by an eagle with spread wings on the end of the handle. Behind it is an orange circle on a white background.

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146d

‘He contains the whole of literature’: is Dickens better than Shakespeare?

After rereading the entire works of the great Victorian novelist during the pandemic, Peter Conrad became convinced – whisper it – that Dickens is an even greater writer than that other British literary giant, the Bard.

https://www.theguardian.com/books/2025/mar/02/is-dickens-better-than-shakespeare

Shakespeare at PG:
https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/author/65

Charles Dickens at PG:
https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/author/37

#books #literature

Portrait of William Shakespeare by John Taylor.

The portrait shows Shakespeare with a slightly melancholic yet confident expression, dark eyes, and a mustache with a small pointed beard.

He is dressed in Elizabethan attire, wearing a black doublet or jacket with a wide, white collar. A gold hoop earring is visible in his left ear, a fashionable accessory among poets and playwrights of the time.

The background is dark, which emphasizes his face and adds a sense of depth and drama to the portrait.

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Portrait of Charles Dickens by Jeremiah Gurney, c. 1867–1868.

In the portrait, Dickens is dressed in formal Victorian attire, typically a dark suit with a vest and a neatly tied cravat.

His hair is slightly disheveled, and his full beard and mustache frame his face, giving him a distinguished yet somewhat weary appearance.

His eyes, often described as piercing and thoughtful, add to the emotional depth of the image.

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170d

#OTD in 1857

Gustave Flaubert's pioneering realist novel Madame Bovary is acquitted (but censured) on charges of offending morals & religion from its 1856 expurgated serialization. It is published complete in book form in April by Michel Lévy Frères in Paris.

On publication, the novel was attacked for immorality and obscenity. Flaubert's trial, which began in January 1857, publicized the story in France.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Madame_Bovary

Madame Bovary at PG:
https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/14155

#books #literature

Mealtime at the Bovary home. Composition by Alfred de Richemont etched by Carlo Chessa for Gustave Flaubert's novel Madame Bovary, Paris, A. et F. Ferroud. Librairie des Amateurs, 1905.

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170d

#OTD in 1823.

The Bannatyne Club (named in honour of George Bannatyne and his famous anthology of Scots literature the Bannatyne Manuscript) is inaugurated by Sir Walter Scott and others as a text publication society to print by subscription rare texts on the history, literature and traditions of Scotland.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bannatyne_Club

Publications by Bannatyne Club:
https://digital.nls.uk/publications-by-scottish-clubs/archive/84240852

#books #literature

Portrait of Sir Walter Scott by Thomas Lawrence, c. 1826.

The portrait presents Scott seated in an elegant yet contemplative pose, dressed in a dark coat with a fur collar, exuding an air of intellect and refinement.

Scott's facial expression is thoughtful, his gaze directed slightly away, adding to the sense of introspection.

He has a walking cane close to his right hand, symbolizing both his status and his later-life physical ailments.

His other hand appears to rest casually, contributing to the relaxed yet dignified atmosphere of the piece.

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170d

#OTD in 1601.

The Lord Chamberlain's Men stage a performance of Shakespeare's Richard II at the Globe Theatre in London. The performance is specially commissioned (at a 40-shilling bonus) by the plotters in the Earl of Essex's rebellion of the following day. The plotters hope that the play, depicting the overthrow of a reigning monarch, will influence the public mood in their favour. The plot fails.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Richard_II_(play)

King Richard II at PG:
https://gutenberg.org/ebooks/1512

#books #literature

The Entry of Richard and Bolingbroke into London (from William Shakespeare's 'Richard II', Act V, Scene 2), James Northcote (1793).

The scene depicts the moment when the deposed King Richard II and his usurper, Henry Bolingbroke (later King Henry IV), make their entrance into London amid a charged atmosphere of triumph and despair.

Bolingbroke, mounted on a rearing white horse, is portrayed in resplendent armor with a red sash, embodying power and authority.

His confident posture and forward gaze contrast sharply with Richard II, who is depicted on a dark horse, dressed in black armor and a red cap. Richard’s demeanor appears melancholic and resigned, highlighting his fall from power.

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170d

"I understood....that in my own life I represented a whole period of American history."

American author Laura Ingalls Wilder was born #OTD in 1867.

She is best known for her Little House book series, which was based on her childhood experiences growing up on the American frontier. Her books have become classics of children's literature and were later adapted into the popular television series Little House on the Prairie.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laura_Ingalls_Wilder

#books #literature

Laura Ingalls Wilder, circa 1885.

Her expression is calm and composed, with a thoughtful gaze directed slightly away from the camera. She has short, curly hair, neatly styled, and her facial features are well-defined, with light eyes and a fair complexion.

She is dressed in a high-collared dark dress, typical of the fashion of the late 19th century, adorned with decorative pleats and lace details on the shoulders. A brooch or small pin is fastened at her collar, adding a refined touch to her attire.

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170d

What Language Does Your Brain Speak? Ockham’s Mental Language Explained

Surprisingly, William of Ockham’s exploration of the perfect “Adamic language” gave rise to some modern cognitive science ideas.

By Vanja Subotic

https://www.thecollector.com/ockham-mental-language-speaking-minds/

More information about Sum of Logic:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sum_of_Logic

#books #mental_language

Sketch labelled "frater Occham iste", from a manuscript of Ockham's Summa Logicae, 1341

Source: Wikimedia Commons

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118d

finished reading Howl’s Moving Castle 🌕🌕🌕🌑🌑
A young woman gets caught up in magical machinations and is turned old & fabulously crotchety. Great characters and vibe but I lost track of the plot a bit (disclaimer: listened to this as a sleep story), and wasn't really into the romantic ending.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q8eOjQ3JrXk&list=PLp6dwtXsi8Pu6G7MT4ajMGB1YrumzQRZ9

#BookReview #Books #Bookstodon #Fantasy #SFF #AudioBook #SleepStory

@WildWoila @wildwoila@wyrms.de

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143d

"This is the saddest story I have ever heard."
Part One, Ch. I (p. 3) first line

In March 1915.

Ford Madox Ford's novel The Good Soldier: A tale of passion is published by John Lane – The Bodley Head in London under this title, and under the author's original name, Ford Madox Hueffer, although he had intended it to be called The Saddest Story.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Good_Soldier

The Good Soldier at PG:
https://gutenberg.org/ebooks/2775

#books #literature

Image of the cover of a first edition of The Good Soldier by Ford Madox Ford.

The first edition cover of The Good Soldier by Ford Madox Ford, published in 1915 by John Lane, The Bodley Head, typically features a simple yet classic design characteristic of early 20th-century literary publications. The cover is often a muted shade, such as beige, with the title and author's name printed in a straightforward, serif font.

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143d

In March 1911.

Publication in The Strand Magazine (London) of the P. G. Wodehouse short story "Absent Treatment" introducing the character Reggie Pepper, a prototype for Bertie Wooster.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reggie_Pepper#%22Absent_Treatment%22

Books by P. G. Wodehouse at PG:
https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/author/783

#books #literature

Illustration by Wallace Morgan for the Reggie Pepper story "Absent Treatment" written by P. G. Wodehouse.

It depicts two well-dressed gentlemen standing beside an open-top automobile, engaged in conversation. The car, with its large wheels and elegant design, is parked near a horse-drawn carriage or omnibus, which is filled with passengers and driven by a uniformed coachman. The setting suggests a busy street or transport hub, with additional figures visible in the background.

The title Absent Treatment is prominently displayed at the top in large, stylish lettering, and the subtitle, What a Man Gets for Forgetting His Wife's Birthday, humorously hints at the story's plot.

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143d

In March 1881.

Ambrose Bierce contributes to the weekly satirical San Francisco magazine The Wasp & resumes his column "Prattle" and the series of cynical definitions which he first calls The Devil's Dictionary.

Bierce's witty definitions were imitated & plagiarized for years before he gathered them into books, first as The Cynic's Word Book in 1906 & then in a more complete version as The Devil's Dictionary in 1911.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Devil%27s_Dictionary

At PG:
https://gutenberg.org/ebooks/972

#books #literature

Title page of The Cynic's Word Book by Ambrose Bierce.

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143d

The Numinous World of Pliny the Elder

As a follower of Stoic philosophy, Pliny used sensory experience to try to understand the divine.

By: Livia Gershon

https://daily.jstor.org/the-numinous-world-of-pliny-the-elder/

Pliny the Elder at PG:
https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/author/50041

#books #history #philosophy

Caius Plinius Secundus. Stipple engraving by F. W. Bollinger. Iconographic Collections Keywords: portrait prints; stipple prints; Gaius Plinius Secundus; Frederich Wilhelm Bollinger

Pliny is traditionally represented as a dignified classical figure, often with a laurel wreath or simple Roman attire, evoking the scholarly and statesmanlike qualities attributed to him. His facial features are carefully rendered, with a contemplative expression, high forehead, and strong gaze, emphasizing his intellectual stature.

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145d

#OTD in 1914.

Irish-born novelist George Moore publishes Vale, the final of his 3-volume autobiographical Hail and Farewell (first in 1911). Hail And Farewell! is memoir of Moore’s time in Dublin in the decade prior to the outbreak of the Great War and the Irish Revolution.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/George_Moore_(novelist)

George Moore at PG:
https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/author/1366

#books #literature

Title page of Vale.

By Moore, George, 1852-1933.

Published:
New York : Appleton, [©1914], 1919 printing.

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145d

#OTD in 1914 (dated February).

Publication of the first issue of New Numbers, a quarterly collection of work by the Dymock poets in England edited by Lascelles Abercrombie with Wilfrid Gibson. It containing poems such as Brooke's "The Soldier", published in 1915.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dymock_poets

The Soldier at PG:
https://www.gutenberg.org/cache/epub/48306/pg48306-images.html#v-the-soldier

#books #literature #poetry

Image of Rupert Brooke (frontispiece) from For remembrance: soldier poets who have fallen in the war

Arthur St. John Adcock - https://archive.org/details/forremembranceso00adco

Brooke is depicted as a young man with wavy hair, gazing into the distance with a contemplative and idealistic expression.

The lighting emphasizes the classical features of his face, often described as handsome and romantic.

The portrait conveys a sense of youth, intellect, and melancholy, fitting for a poet who became a symbol of lost potential during World War I.

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169d

The Time a Couple Crazy Kids—Ford Madox Ford, Hemingway—Started a Journal in Paris

And It Was Almost Called “The Paris Review”

By Nick Ripatrazone

https://lithub.com/the-time-a-couple-crazy-kids-ford-madox-ford-hemingway-started-a-journal-in-paris/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Transatlantic_Review

#books #literature #literarycriticism

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Hemingway posing for a dust jacket photo by Lloyd Arnold for the first edition of "For Whom the Bell Tolls", at the Sun Valley Lodge, Idaho, late 1939.

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169d

The Post-Millennial Poe, or, Edgar Allan Holmes?

In life, Edgar Allan Poe was best known as a literary critic. Today, he’s best remembered for his disquieting tales…but that may be changing.

By: Matthew Wills

https://daily.jstor.org/the-post-millennial-poe-or-edgar-allan-holmes/

#books #literature #literarycriticism

Edgar Allan Poe, June 1849. Daguerreotype "Annie", given to Poe's friend Mrs. Annie L. Richmond; probably taken in June 1849 in Lowell, Massachusetts, photographer unknown.

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169d

Dutch-Swiss mathematician and physicist Daniel Bernoulli was born #OTD in 1700.

He is particularly remembered for his applications of mathematics to mechanics, especially fluid mechanics, and for his pioneering work in probability and statistics. His name is commemorated in the Bernoulli's principle, a particular example of the conservation of energy.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Daniel_Bernoulli

Books by Daniel Bernoulli at PG:
https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/author/41345

#books #science #mathematics #physics