Enquire Within Upon Everything

Enquire Within Upon Everything is a comprehensive reference book that was widely popular in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The book's exact authorship is unclear, but it is often attributed to Charles Henry Ross and his wife, Emmeline Ross. First published in 1860, it went through numerous editions, becoming a staple in many households. The book's aim was to provide answers to a vast range of questions on various subjects, from science and technology to history and entertainment.

History and publication

The first edition of Enquire Within Upon Everything was published in 1860 by Charles Henry Ross, a British author and publisher. The book was an instant success, and subsequent editions were released regularly throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries. The book's popularity can be attributed to its comprehensive coverage of a wide range of subjects, including chemistry, physics, biology, and astronomy, as well as its inclusion of practical information on cooking, medicine, and travel. Over the years, the book underwent significant revisions and updates, with contributions from various experts in different fields, including Michael Faraday and Charles Darwin.

Content and structure

Enquire Within Upon Everything is structured in a question-and-answer format, with entries arranged alphabetically by subject. The book covers a vast range of topics, from agriculture and architecture to zoology and art history. Each entry provides a concise and informative answer to a specific question, often accompanied by illustrations and diagrams. The book's content is remarkably diverse, reflecting the broad interests and curiosities of the Victorian era. It includes information on inventions and discoveries, as well as biographies of notable figures, such as Napoleon Bonaparte and William Shakespeare.

Cultural impact and legacy

Enquire Within Upon Everything had a significant impact on popular culture, becoming a trusted reference source for many people. The book's influence can be seen in later reference works, such as Encyclopædia Britannica and The World Book Encyclopedia. It also inspired a range of spin-off publications, including almanacs and yearbooks. The book's legacy extends beyond the world of reference publishing, with its influence evident in literature, art, and education. Authors such as Lewis Carroll and Jules Verne are known to have drawn inspiration from the book's eclectic content.

Editions and variations

Over the years, Enquire Within Upon Everything went through numerous editions, with significant revisions and updates. The book was often published in multiple volumes, with some editions featuring additional illustrations and appendices. Variations of the book were also published, including abridged and illustrated editions. Some editions were tailored for specific audiences, such as children and travelers. The book's widespread popularity led to the creation of counterfeit editions, which were often of poor quality.

Related works and influence

Enquire Within Upon Everything influenced a range of related works, including The Cyclopaedia and The Encyclopaedia. The book's comprehensive coverage of various subjects also inspired specialized encyclopedias, such as The Encyclopedia of Agriculture and The Encyclopedia of Medicine. The book's legacy can be seen in modern reference works, such as Wikipedia and online encyclopedias. Its impact on popular culture is evident in literature, film, and television, where it is often referenced or parodied. The book remains a fascinating artifact of the Victorian era, offering insights into the interests and values of the time. Category:Reference books Category:Encyclopedias Category:19th-century literature