The book explores the transformation of Dublin's landscape during the 1970s, highlighting the shift towards suburban development in areas like Tallaght and Clondalkin, which challenged the city center's dominance. As car culture rose, demands for larger roads increased, prompting a need for better urban management. By the late 1980s, dramatic changes revitalized the city center, addressing long-standing environmental issues like the Liffey's pollution. However, despite these advancements, challenges in public housing and city management persisted.
Father Brady's translation of Bougaud's Life of Saint Vincent de Paul offers English readers a valuable insight into the life of this significant figure. While a more extensive biography by Abelly exists, along with a vast collection of Vincent's correspondence, Bougaud's work stands out for its accessibility and relevance to modern readers. He skillfully balances detail and brevity, ensuring the narrative remains engaging without overwhelming those less inclined to delve into exhaustive detail. Bougaud's biographies, including those of Saint Jane Frances de Chantal and Saint Monica, are recognized as literary masterpieces, and this translation adds a noteworthy contribution to English religious literature.
The timing of this publication is particularly pertinent, as it aligns with the current call for societal reform and the elevation of the priesthood within the Church. This dual mission resonates with educated Catholics and is a central theme of Papal encyclicals and synodal decrees. The work emphasizes the responsibility of the Church today, highlighting the importance of these efforts for the future influence of Catholics on society. Forgotten Books is dedicated to preserving historical works, ensuring that this important biography remains accessible while maintaining the integrity of the original text.
Maps are essential tools in finding our way around, but they also tell stories
and are great depositories of information. Through a carefully chosen
selection of maps, the book traces the growth and development of Dublin from
the early seventeenth century to the present day, offering a fascinating snap-
shot of how the city has changed over time.
