The English Constitution
Walter Bagehot, editor of The Economist, published The English Constitution in 1867, and this edition includes the introduction he wrote for the second edition of 1872. Rather than describing the constitution as written in law books, he examines how it actually works. He distinguishes its dignified parts, such as the monarchy and the House of Lords, which win the reverence of the people, from its efficient parts, above all the cabinet, which link the executive to the House of Commons and do the real work of government. Chapters on the cabinet, the monarchy, the Lords, the Commons and changes of ministry follow. Shrewd and witty, the book remains a classic of political analysis. The full text is available to read online in your browser on Vinteuil, and the first chapter is free.
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Frequently asked questions about The English Constitution
The English Constitution by Walter Bagehot can be read online on Vinteuil, directly in your browser. The first chapter is free for everyone; the complete book is included in Vinteuil Reading ($4.99/month or $39.99/year) or yours forever for $2.99.
Can I read The English Constitution online?
Yes. The English Constitution opens right on this page, in a reader designed for long reading: adjustable text size, light, sepia and dark themes, a clickable table of contents and your place saved when you are signed in. No download or app is needed.
Is The English Constitution free to read on Vinteuil?
The first chapter of The English Constitution is free, without an account. To read the whole book, either buy its online reading for $2.99 (£2.99 in the UK) and keep it forever, or subscribe to Vinteuil Reading for $4.99/month (£4.99/month in the UK) or $39.99/year, with 1 month free for new subscribers. The subscription opens every book in the library and can be cancelled at any time.
Is The English Constitution in the public domain?
Yes. The English Constitution by Walter Bagehot is a public-domain work. Vinteuil offers a carefully prepared digital edition made for comfortable reading on screen.
How long does it take to read The English Constitution?
About 6 h 29 min of reading, at an average reading pace. Your place is saved automatically when you are signed in, so you can read in several sittings and on several devices.
What kind of book is The English Constitution?
The English Constitution by Walter Bagehot is filed under "History" in the Vinteuil library.
