History Society Lecture
15 February 2022
William Crashawe’s Library and the Circulation of Books at the Inns of Court in the Early 17th Century Professor Michelle O’Callaghan
William Crashawe, preacher at the Temples from 1605 to 1613, had a library built in chambers adjoining the Temple Church, which provided a meeting place and point of exchange at a time when he was establishing his reputation in print as a religious controversialist. After Crashawe lost his position at the Temple, his library was broken up, and his books kept in different locations in London. Nonetheless, Crashawe’s books continued to draw visitors and foster religious debate, especially during the
politically heated early 1620s, often through networks of association maintained from his time at the Temples. Professor Michelle O’Callaghan (Professor of Early Modern Literature, University of Reading, and Director of the Early Modern Research Centre (EMRC))
TO BOOK innertemple.org.uk/crashawe COST In person: £10.85; IT Students: Free Online: Free but booking essential ENQUIRIES members@innertemple.org.uk
22 INNERVIEW
WHERE In person and livestreamed from Temple Church WHEN Doors Open: 5.30pm Lecture: 6pm – 7.15pm (GMT) Reception: 7.15pm – 7.45pm
Hilary Term