On a Grander Scale: The Outstanding Life of Sir Christopher Wren

Christopher Wren was born in 1632 and died in 1723. He was born when Charles I was king, and died during the reign of George I. 'Visitor, if you require a tomb, look down. If you require a monument, look around you.' This was the tombstone inscription proposed by Sir Christopher's son, and it would have indeed distinguished more carefully the man from his work. Sir Christopher Wren was one of an immensely talented group of Restoration scientists and architects who flourished in the late 17th century. His architectural achievements include St Paul's Cathedral and many of the significant buildings built (or rebuilt) in London after the Great Fire in 1666. Much of his scientific work was done in collaboration with Robert Hooke and while it is perhaps less visible to non-scientists it is highly significant. This is not a book so much about Sir Christopher himself as it is about the span and influence of his public life. Those with an interest in Restoration science will recognise Boyle, Newton, Hooke, Flamsteed and Halley amongst others. Those with an interest in the Stuart dynasty will recognise some of the dynastic failings which impacted on the execution of some of Sir Christopher's architectural designs. This is an ambitious book and one which could have benefitted from more careful editing. The first name of the first Earl of Clarendon (Edward rather than Henry) is likely to be known by most interested in this period and is a relatively minor issue but it jars. I would recommend this book to those with an interest in 17th century science and architecture in its own political setting. Ms Jardine provides extensive notes and a comprehensive bigraphy for those who want to read either more widely or in more detail. Jennifer Cameron-Smith

"reader if you require a monument, look around you" (inscription of the plaque at Wren's tomb) Sir Christopher Wren was born to a life of privilege that evaporated when Charles I was deposed. His father was Order of the Garter. Suddenly his family was in danger of losing life as well as property. These were Wren's student years. During this period Wren became pragmatic, and he survived. It was the Restoration of Charles II to the throne of England that restored the fortunes of the Wren family. Too late for the father, but at precisely the right moment for the son. Charles II restored the monarchy, and restored the fortunes of Wren. The Restoration was an extraordinary period. Wren was a Renaissance man, best known for his architecture, in particular St. Paul's Cathedral. But Wren also "mapped moons and the trajectories of comets" He "pursued astronomy and medicine during two civil wars." This is a scholarly biography, and not light beach reading. Lisa Jardine's 85 pages of notes and an eighteen page bibliography may give some insight into how seriously she has taken her subject. On a Grander Scale is a detailed report on a fascinating time in England's history and one of the men that made it so. It is well done, accurate, and intellectually stimulating.