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More than 5000 entries on the history, culture and life of Britain (published in 1993 by Macmillan, now out of print)
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The Pilgrim's Progress
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from this world, to that which is to come (1678–84) Allegory by John *Bunyan – one of the most read and best-loved of English books, because while unmistakably an improving religious work it also has the excitement of a folk tale and the rich characters of a novel. Part I (1678) tells how the pilgrim, Christian, sets off with his burden of sins upon his back to make his way to the Celestial City. His path takes him through the Slough of Despond, past the tempting delights of Vanity Fair, and into temporary imprisonment by Giant Despair in Doubting Castle. In Part 2 (1684) he is followed on the journey by his wife, Christiana, with their children. Three verses from Part 1, spoken by Mr Valiant-for-truth and beginning 'Who would true valour see', have been used as a hymn since the early 20C.
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