Life Below Stairs (2015 Edition) - In the Victorian and Edwardian Country House

A vivid account of lives lived 'in service' in Britain's great houses. From the cook, butler and housekeeper to the footman, lady's maid and nanny, this is a fascinating glimpse behind the scenes of some of Britain's grandest houses.The largely untold stories of innumerable, rather humble, lives spent 'in service' are lying just below the surface of many great houses; the physical evidence can be seen in surviving servants' quarters, the material of their everyday life, even their uniforms and possessions.This account provides a fascinating glimpse at who's who behind the scenes, from the cook, butler and housekeeper to the footmen, lady's maids, governesses and tutors, nannies and nursemaids. Giving a fascinating insight into the heirarchy within the servant's quarters - from the power-wielding cook to the ever-discreet butler - this guide describes how relationships were forged and changed as the gap between upstairs and downstairs was bridged.Describing their typical working day as well as the holidays, entertainments and pastimes enjoyed on a rare day off, not to mention the whirl of the social season, this previously 'unwritten history' recalls vividly the nature of their lives below stairs.

Product details

• Authors: Sian Evans, Siân Evans, National Trust Books
• Publisher: National Trust Books
• Languages: English
• Product format: Hardback
• Released: 30.09.2015
• EAN: 9781909881648
• ISBN: 978-1-909881-64-8
• Dimensions: 195 mm x 250 mm x 20 mm
• Subjects: Guides > Self-help, everyday life > Family; Non-fiction book; European History, 20th Century, ARCHITECTURE / Buildings / Residential, HISTORY / Social History, Social & cultural history, HISTORY / Europe / Great Britain / 20th Century, HISTORY / Europe / Great Britain / Victorian Era (1837-1901), c 1800 to c 1900, 19th century, c 1800 to c 1899, 20th century, c 1900 to c 1999, British & Irish history, United Kingdom, Great Britain, Palaces, chateaux, country houses, Social and cultural history, Social classes, SOCIAL SCIENCE / Social Classes & Economic Disparity, Architecture: palaces, stately homes and mansions