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Cover of Arbuthnotiana: The Story of the St. Alb-ns Ghost (1712) A Catalogue of Dr. Arbuthnot's Library (1779)

Arbuthnotiana: The Story of the St. Alb-ns Ghost (1712) A Catalogue of Dr. Arbuthnot's Library (1779)

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Great BritainSatire, EnglishPrivate librariesEarly printed booksArbuthnot, John, 1667-1735

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About this book

"Arbuthnotiana: The Story of the St. Alb-ns Ghost" is a satirical work that belongs to both the political and literary genres, written in the early 18th century. This compilation includes a politically charged ghost story that cleverly critiques societal issues and figures of the time, particularly through the lens of Tory propaganda. The narrative revolves around the notorious ghost of Mother Haggy, whose reputation for witchcraft and mischief haunts the community, serving as a vehicle for satire against political figures and the Whig party. The opening of the story sets up the character of Mother Haggy, who is introduced as a feared witch in St. Albans during King James I's reign. The narrator discusses the societal superstitions and credulities that allow such figures to thrive, establishing a tone that is both humorous and critical. As the narrative progresses, Haggy's infamous exploits become central to the unfolding events, and the anecdotes surrounding her life hint at a broader commentary on the follies and mismanagement of those in power. The ghost's eventual reappearance sets the stage for conflicts involving her descendants, Avaro and Haggite, as they navigate their complicated relationships with the community and their own corrupt practices. This opening portion serves as a rich tapestry of wit and social reflection that maintains its relevance even in contemporary discourse.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in Arbuthnotiana: The Story of the St. Alb-ns Ghost (1712) A Catalogue of Dr. Arbuthnot's Library (1779), written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 10 hours
  • advanced
  • historical
  • intellectual
  • mysterious

This 'book' is not a single narrative but a compilation of two distinct historical documents that together offer a fascinating glimpse into early 18th-century British intellectual and popular culture, often associated with the polymath John Arbuthnot. It comprises 'The Story of the St. Alb-ns Ghost' (1712), a likely satirical or journalistic account of a supernatural event, reflecting the era's blend of credulity and nascent skepticism. The second component is 'A Catalogue of Dr. Arbuthnot's Library' (1779), an auction inventory compiled decades after his death, which indirectly illuminates the vast intellectual landscape and specific interests of a prominent Enlightenment figure and member of the Scriblerus Club.

“"Being an exact Account of the Apparition that lately appeared in the House of..."”

Key themes

The Life of the Mind and Intellectual Legacy
This theme is central to 'A Catalogue of Dr. Arbuthnot's Library.' The catalogue, by listing the contents of a scholar's personal collection, provides a profound insight into the intellectual pursuits, influences, and breadth of knowledge characteristic of a leading figure of the Enlightenment. It speaks to how individuals construct their understanding of the world through accumulated texts.
Superstition vs. Reason
This theme is prominently explored through 'The Story of the St. Alb-ns Ghost,' which likely presents a local event through the lens of popular belief in the supernatural, potentially juxtaposed with a more rational or skeptical perspective. It reflects the ongoing intellectual battle in the early 18th century as the Enlightenment challenged traditional credulity.
Satire and Public Discourse
While not explicitly present in the catalogue, the context of Arbuthnotiana suggests a connection to the Augustan Age's vibrant satirical tradition. 'The Story of the St. Alb-ns Ghost' might employ subtle satire to comment on public credulity or local politics, a common feature of 18th-century pamphlets. Arbuthnot himself was a master satirist, and the presence of satirical works in his library would underscore this theme.

Worth discussing

How do 'The Story of the St. Alb-ns Ghost' and 'A Catalogue of Dr. Arbuthnot's Library' individually reflect the intellectual and popular culture of the early 18th century?

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