Eighteenth Century Waifs

Name: Eighteenth Century Waifs
Author: John Ashton

By John Ashton

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About This Book

A collection of compact essays and biographical sketches that illuminate varied facets of eighteenth-century social life, ranging from eccentric religious pretenders and notorious criminals to fashionable women, journalists, maritime adventures, popular medical quackery, and the realities of debt imprisonment. Each chapter treats a distinct episode or figure drawn from obscure tracts, newspapers, and archival sources, presenting anecdote, context, and concise portraiture in self-contained vignettes intended for casual reading. The pieces combine reporting and social observation to reveal everyday beliefs, institutions, and curiosities of the period.

About the Author

John Ashton

John Ashton was a notable English author and historian, recognized for his contributions to literature focusing on social history and cultural commentary. His works often explore the nuances of English life, particularly during the 18th and 19th centuries. Among his key publications is "A Righte Merrie Christmasse: The Story of Christ-Tide," which delves into the traditions and celebrations of Christmas. Ashton also authored "A History of English Lotteries," providing insights into the social implications of gambling in England. His writings, including "English Caricature and Satire on Napoleon I," reflect a keen interest in satire and the societal issues of his time.