The Flowering Hawthorn

by Hugh Ross Williamson

This book tells the story of the coming of Christianity to the English-speaking world and features the beautiful legend of the flowering hawthorn that blossoms every Christmas. Hugh Ross Williamson relates, with charm and understanding, the story of the flowering hawthorn and Glastonbury. He tells of St. Joseph of Arimathea, who lowered Jesus from the Cross and buried Him; of the Abbey at Glastonbury which became the "second Rome"; of Dunstan and Henry of Blois, who forged a state from antagonistic elements; of the great soldiers, Alfred and Arthur, who saved faith and order from threatening chaos and made themselves legends forever; of St. Patrick, patron Saint of Ireland; of St. David, patron Saint of Wales; of the destruction Glastonbury by the Puritans, its desolation until the present century, and its restoration-all inextricably interwoven with the story of Glastonbury and the flowering hawthorn. Beautifully illustrated with magnificent woodcuts by Clare Leighton, movingly written by Hugh Ross Williamson -historian, novelist, playwright, actor-and expressly designed to complement the story, this attractive volume will prove the ideal gift. Includes an "afterword" about the author, the illustrator and their book. Gold embossed hardcover, 60 lb. cream paper, smyth-sewn, 104 handsome pages.

Genres: History, British Literature

104 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1962

About the author

Hugh Ross Williamson (1901 - 1978) was a prolific British historian, and a dramatist. Starting from a career in the literary world, and having a Nonconformist background, he became an Anglican clergyman in 1943; and later in 1955 a Catholic convert. He wrote many historical works in a Catholic apologist tone. and in 1956 published his autobiography entitled "The Walled Garden".

Reviews

[Michael]

Charming origin of Christianity in Britain. Ties together Joseph of Arimathea, King Arthur/Avalon, and King Alfred the great. A combination of historical evidence, tradition English beliefs , and legendary stories. The author is a convert from Anglicanism which I think helps give this work a traditional English flavour.

[David donegan]

Great book on the legend or truth of Joseph of Arimathea coming to Glastonbury. Loved the journey through history and tales, legends, and poetry.