Category: Features
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The Cone-Shaped Hennin: A Small History of a Big Hat
The Hennin is a staple of children’s fancy dress. Elida Lyons offers an explanation as to why this hat dominates the imagery of medieval fashion.
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A Trip Down Gin Lane: An Enquiry into British Boozing
Alcohol consumption is central to British national self-conception and military culture. Olivia Hiskett traces the contentious moral history of alcohol from the eighteenth century to the present.
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The English Dream of Utopia
Fleur O’Reilly tracks the meanings behind the English dream of Utopia, from the Greek translation, through the sixteenth century and the Industrial Revolution.
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Daughter of Castile to Queen of England: A Brief Biography of Catherine of Aragon and Her Place in Tudor England
Catherine of Aragon, first wife of Henry VIII, navigated complex political alliances since childhood. Narrated by Ishaabhya Tripathi, away from merely her tumultuous marriage and lack of male heirs, Catherine’s life profoundly impacting English and European history.
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Executive Clemency: Evaluating the Legacy of Nixon’s Pardon
The pardoning power exercised by the US President has become a major source of controversy surrounding American executive authority. Edie Christian examines the precedent set by the pardon of Richard Nixon for the misuse of executive clemency.
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The Importance of Taking Up Space: Women and Performance Art
Women’s Performance Art is predicated on the act of women taking up space. Daisy Gillam outlines several important works within the genre.
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Himawari: The Smiling Flower
The Sunflower, Himawari in Japanese, is an iconic plant that carries different symbols internationally. Ami John details the cultural significance Himawari have and how it has become synonymous to reflect life, growth, and happiness.
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On the Wing: The Historical Partnership Between Raptors and Humans
Ailsa Fraser explores the historical relationship between humans and raptors, particularly through falconry. This piece discusses the decline and resurgence of raptor populations, the evolution of falconry practices, and towards the ethical debates surrounding animal training and hunting in contemporary society.
Retrospect Journal 