This book provides a rounded account of the history of Dudley, starting before the Norman Conquest. It traces the development of industry in the town, and shows how the lack of utilities, including water, hampered the nineteenth-century town and forced a section of the population into desperate poverty. Major historical treasures remain from this era, however, giving the opportunity for the growth of tourism in the present. The Story of Dudley, compiled by an expert in the area's history, weaves these events together into an accessible, interesting and in-depth history of the town that is sure to delight residents and visitors alike.
This volume brings together disparate views about biblical texts in the books of Samuel, Chronicles and Ezra-Nehemiah and examines their influence in the life of contemporary communities, demonstrating how today's environments and disorders help readers to acquire new insights into such texts. The contributing scholars hail from different continents - from East Asia to the United States to Europe to South Africa and Israel - and count themselves as members of various Jewish and Christian traditions or secularist ways of life. But, in spite of their differences in location and community membership, and perhaps in the spirit of the times (2020 and its global discontents), they share preoccupations with questions of ethics in politics and life, 'proper' death, violence and social exclusion or inclusion. This volume offers readers a better understanding of how politics and faith can be melded, both in ancient and contemporary contexts, to serve the interests of certain classes and societies, often at the expense of others.
John S. Peart-Binns brings us a fresh and distinctive view of Herbert Hensley Henson, the eighty-sixth Bishop of Durham, who is shown here to have formed his own character and forged his own way amidst the chaos of the shifting and unpopular labour laws,two World Wars, the abdication crisis of the twentieth century and the misconceptions of those around him. Hensley Henson was an outspoken controversialist who never feared to assert his opinion. Peart-Binns goes beyond the traditional notions of biography - Hensley Henson's complex childhood; education at Oxford; his ministry at Ilford and Barking, Canon of Westminster and Bishop of Durham - and withal provides a rich psychological insight into the nature of the indefatigable and quick-witted though sharp-tongued figure. This perspective illuminates the Bishop's often overlooked theological thoughts and political views. The furore surrounding his appointment as Bishop of Hereford is analysed and his volte face from a formidable bulwark of the Establishment to trenchant advocate of Disestablishment is evaluated. Hensley Henson emerges clearly differing from the familiar image we have of him, which can be found in novels, newspapers and magazines of the time, and in his own autobiography. Peart-Binns provides a permanent and deserved niche for him in the history of the Church. Herbert Hensley Henson: A Biography examines the life and times of this charismatic and astute character of the twentieth century. This work will inform those interested in the twentieth century, and delight any who are intrigued by Hensley Henson's indomitable spirit.
