BOOK BRIEF

Ornamentalism: How the British Saw Their Empire

David Cannadine
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Ornamentalism: How the British Saw Their Empire

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2002

Book Brief

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David Cannadine

Ornamentalism: How the British Saw Their Empire

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2002
Book Details
Pages

264

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

British Empire • 19th-20th century

Publication Year

2002

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In Ornamentalism: How the British Saw Their Empire, David Cannadine explores how British individuals viewed their empire through a lens of class and hierarchy, rather than race. The text examines how social structures and British aristocratic ideals influenced perceptions and governance in colonial territories, highlighting the complex dynamics of identity and power in the British Empire.

Informative

Contemplative

Mysterious

Reviews & Readership

3.5

338 ratings

50%

Loved it

37%

Mixed feelings

13%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

David Cannadine's Ornamentalism: How the British Saw Their Empire examines the British Empire's social hierarchy, highlighting its reliance on class and tradition. Critics commend its insightful analysis of imperial identity, although some find its scope limited and lacking depth. The book's detailed narrative is praised for its fresh perspective on imperial history.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Ornamentalism: How the British Saw Their Empire?

Readers interested in Ornamentalism: How the British Saw Their Empire by David Cannadine enjoy exploring British imperial history through cultural and hierarchical lenses. Comparable to Orientalism by Edward Said and The Invention of Tradition by Eric Hobsbawm, this book appeals to those curious about social history and imperial identity.

3.5

338 ratings

50%

Loved it

37%

Mixed feelings

13%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

264

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

British Empire • 19th-20th century

Publication Year

2002

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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