Henry Adams

Henry Adams was an American historian and member of the Adams political family, being descended from two U.S. Presidents. As an author, he is best known for his autobiographical book, 'The Education of Henry Adams', which explores the rapid changes in technology and society during the late 19th century. Adams was also a novelist and a prominent figure in the field of history, with works such as 'History of the United States During the Administrations of Thomas Jefferson' and 'History of the United States During the Administrations of James Madison'. His writing often reflected his skepticism about the modern world and the role of the United States in it.

Books

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. The Education of Henry Adams

    "The Education of Henry Adams" is an autobiographical account that explores the changes in society and politics during the 19th and 20th century from the perspective of an individual who is both a product and critic of that era. The narrative is structured around the author's self-perceived failure to understand or adapt to these changes, despite his privileged education and social status. The book is a reflection on the author's life, his attempts to make sense of the world around him, and his struggle to reconcile his traditional upbringing with the rapid advancements of the modern world.

  2. 2. Mont-Saint-Michel and Chartres

    The book is a detailed historical and social analysis of the architecture, sculpture, and stained glass of two iconic French landmarks: Mont-Saint-Michel and Chartres Cathedral. It explores the medieval imagination through these structures, offering a fascinating study of the cultural, intellectual, and religious trends of the 12th and 13th centuries. It also provides an intimate look into the author's deep appreciation for the Middle Ages, and his belief that the period represented an integrated, cohesive worldview that was lost in the Renaissance.