History of Architecture. By Professor Banister Fletcher and Banister F.
Fletcher. (B. T. Batsford.)—The authors add to their title the words, "On the Comparative Method." They take into account, that is, the influences, physical, mental, or moral, which have been among the causes of different styles, the results to which these have led, and other kindred considera- tions. It is obvious that this is a very important matter. The method is not absolutely new, but there is much in its application for which the writers may fairly claim credit. The illustrations are plentiful and of a really illustrating character, and, as the treatment of so large a subject has necessarily to be brief, there are convenient lists under each heading of works of reference. The chapters on "Roman Architecture" may be mentioned as a good sample of the work, all the more so because it is a con- necting-link between one of the great religions of antiquity and Christianity. First we have a chapter on "Influences," giving leading facts, geographical, religious, &c., then a brief statement of the "architectural character" of Roman buildings, followed by examples, set out in illustrations, among which the Maisou Carrie at Nismes, the Coliseum, the Amphitheatre at Verona, and the Basilicas of St. Clement, St. Paul, and St. Maria Maggiore at Rome may be mentioned. A great deal of very useful informa- tion is well put together in the short space of forty pages, and a similar praise may be fairly bestowed on the volume in general.
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