Eton and King’s: Recollections, Mostly Trivial, 1875-1925 (Cambridge Library Collection – History of Printing, Publishing and Libraries)

M. R. James (1862-1936), best remembered today for his ghost stories, was Provost of King’s College, Cambridge (1905-1918) and of Eton College (1918-1936). In these memoirs, he tells the story of the times he spent at the two prestigious institutions, providing a vibrant account of the people and experiences that characterised them. Beginning with his first impressions of Eton as a boy, he lends a unique insight into the school, moving on to recount with affection his scholarly and teaching careers in both these ‘royal and religious foundations’. Ghosts and games, choirs and Christmases, and dramas and dons are all recalled in vivid detail, creating a colourful picture of academic life during the early twentieth century and the First World War. Anecdotal, touching and often humorous, James’ recollections reveal his role in both intellectual and social life at these famous institutions, and his dedication and allegiance to them.