Identity area
Reference code
Title
Date(s)
- 1928-1954 (Creation)
Level of description
Extent and medium
2.5 metres of material. A collection of 84 hardcover and paperback print books.
Context area
Name of creator
Biographical history
Caryll Houselander was born on September 29, 1901, in Bath, England, to Gertrude Provis Houselander and Willmott Houselander. After her parents' separation, Houselander was sent to a French-run convent boarding school in Olton (1913-1915) until she became ill and paused her education to live in a convalescent home. In 1917, she moved to an English convent school, but dropped out to begin working that same year. Despite lacking formal theological education, Houselander went on to make significant contributions to various religious periodicals and published multiple books throughout her adult life. She was a Catholic artist, mystic, and spiritual writer. Her first book, "This War is the Passion," was published in 1941. Houselander's work often explored the theme of finding Christ in humanity and emphasized the importance of empathy in the modern age. Her writings provided comfort and guidance to many individuals during and after the World Wars. Houselander passed away on October 12, 1954, at the age of 53.
Archival history
Immediate source of acquisition or transfer
Content and structure area
Scope and content
This subseries contains books formerly owned by Caryll Houselander, reflecting her intellectual and spiritual interests. The volumes include religious texts, poetry, theological works, and literature that informed her mystical writings and worldview. Many items bear personal annotations, inscriptions, or marginalia that offer insight into her reading habits and interpretive lens. The subseries provides a valuable resource for understanding the influences and context surrounding Houselander’s spiritual development and literary production. It is not an exhaustive collection, only a portion of Houselander's library.
Appraisal, destruction and scheduling
Accruals
System of arrangement
Conditions of access and use area
Conditions governing access
Conditions governing reproduction
Language of material
Script of material
Language and script notes
Physical characteristics and technical requirements
Collection exhibits some preservation concerns, including warped pages due to water damage. Some volumes show evidence of exposure to moisture, resulting in staining, weakened bindings, and cockled paper. Several covers and spines show signs of detachment. Textual content remains largely intact.
Finding aids
Allied materials area
Existence and location of originals
Existence and location of copies
Related units of description
Notes area
Note
Marginalia and inscriptions are present in some copies.