England 4: Oxford Discovered (part of the European Studies Series) 2003
Distributed by Chip Taylor Communications, 2 East View Drive, Derry, NH 03038-4812; 800-876-CHIP (2447)
Produced by Quantum Leap Group
Director n/a
VHS, color, 52 min.
Adult
Architecture, European Studies, History, Literature, Travel and Tourism
Date Entered: 12/10/2003
Reviewed by Betsy Butler, Special Collections Librarian, The Ohio Historical Society, Columbus, OHTo poet Matthew Arnold, Oxford, England was “that sweet city with her dreaming spires.” After seeing this video, viewers will undoubtedly agree.
Dating back to the 9th century, this historic city on the Thames River has been the home of royalty, scholars and other English notables. This video recounts tales from Oxford’s past, highlights its most well-known architectural details, and provides examples of how Oxford’s famous university maintains a cordial relationship with the city itself.
In just over 50 minutes, the video presents a comprehensive, understandable look at Oxford’s development from medieval to modern times. Visits to the Bodleian Library and Oxford University Press are interspersed with accounts of the city’s association with a who’s-who of literary and cultural notables, including Christopher Wren, William Morris, C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. Appropriately chosen literary quotes and professional video footage present Oxford in a fine, well-researched manner.
Although the video does not focus on essential travel details, it provides an informative perspective on Oxford’s history, culture, and the issues it faces today. Whether reinforcing course content in history, architecture, or English literature, this video would be a strong addition to an academic library’s collection. Public library patrons planning a visit to Oxford would also benefit from watching this well-done video.