The Cathedral Church of Canterbury [2nd ed.]

The Cathedral Church of Canterbury [2nd ed.] by Hartley Withers B.A. provides a detailed description of the fabric and a brief history of the archiepiscopal see. The book is part of a series of monographs aimed at providing accurate and well-illustrated guidebooks for visitors to English cathedrals. The author acknowledges various sources of information including county histories expert papers and important documents. The preface mentions specific authorities consulted such as Prof. Willis's Architectural History of Canterbury Cathedral and Dean Stanley's Historical Memorials of Canterbury. The illustrations in the book including drawings and photographs are credited to various artists and photographers. The history of Canterbury Cathedral is traced back to its origins in the British or Roman church built by King Lucius and later restored by Archbishop Odo. The construction of the present cathedral began under Archbishop Lanfranc in the 11th century and underwent various alterations and additions over the centuries. The cathedral's significance was greatly enhanced by the presence of relics including those of St. Thomas à Becket whose shrine attracted pilgrims from all over Europe. The book delves into the miracles attributed to St. Thomas and the impact of his shrine on the cathedral's fame and wealth. The narrative also covers the period of religious turmoil during the Reformation and the subsequent destruction of shrines and relics including that of St. Thomas. The Puritan and later restoration efforts to repair and renovate the cathedral are detailed including the installation of new furnishings and the rebuilding of damaged sections. The book highlights the architectural changes and additions made to the cathedral such as the construction of new screens altars and thrones as well as the restoration of the crypt and stained glass windows. The chapter on the exterior and precincts of the cathedral discusses the various structures surrounding the main building such as the Angel or Bell Tower the Monastery Christchurch Gate and the Treasury. The description includes details of the architectural features historical significance and restoration efforts of these structures. The book also mentions the fire incidents that occurred in the cathedral's history including the one in 1872 and the subsequent repairs and renovations carried out. Overall The Cathedral Church of Canterbury provides a comprehensive overview of the history architecture and significance of Canterbury Cathedral making it a valuable resource for visitors scholars and enthusiasts interested in the heritage of this iconic religious site. The study of the architectural features of the cathedral particularly the choir reveals a daring mixture of styles that make it uniquely interesting. The inward bend of the walls at the end of the choir was necessitated by the survival of the towers of St. Anselm and St. Andrew after a fire in 1174. This led to a certain amount of contraction to incorporate these towers into the new plan. The construction of a chapel for St. Thomas was also a significant consideration in the design. The high altar once richly embellished suffered destruction and alterations over the years due to historical events and religious changes. The translation of saints' relics particularly St. Dunstan's was a contentious issue between Canterbury and Glastonbury. The choir screen attributed to Prior de Estria was a solid stone structure that adorned the church with intricate carvings. The pavement in the choir believed to be part of the original flooring bears marks of the fire of 1174. The wooden stalls of the choir described in a book from 1640 underwent refurbishment over the years. The position of the organ in the choir has been shifted multiple times to improve its musical effect. The tombs in the choir house famous archbishops and cardinals each with their own stories and contributions to history