Research On The Grand Tour Of British Aristocracy From Sixteenth To Eighteenth Century

Between the 16th and 18th century, a kind of travel for the purpose of education had gradually developed into a tradition, popular within the upper class of the Europe, which was called the Grand Tour. Among them, the British noble were the most conspicuous. The prevalence of Grand Tour had a profound background. For Britain, with the development of society, the bourgeoisified nobility had improved their economic strength and literacy level. In order to consolidate the political power, the gentry must broaden their horizons; for European continent, countries like Italy and France inherited the spirit of humanism, were of highly cultural richness, attracting the British gentry to accept the artistic edification.During the Grand Tour, British gentry traveled through Italy, France and other countries on the continent, received the education of humanism, learned foreign language, visited celebrities, felt the customs of the counties, such life may be called rich and colorful. In spite of the inconvenient condition of traffic and accommodation which had made the tour arduous and costly, most of the noble had held out to the end. With the coming of Industrial Revolution, Grand Tour had become a mode of travel that general public can afford, its aristocratic feature had been weakened.Grand Tour had a significant impact on noble themselves, Britain and the whole Continental Europe. To begin with, the British gentry had increased their knowledge and improved cultivation, which was useful for them to involve the center of state power. Secondly, the aristocrat consolidated its rule and become the leader of British culture. Finally, the Grand Tour enhanced mutual understanding between Britain and Continental Europe, which had impact on their polity, economy and culture.Although the Grand Tour had been a historical event, "whether go for Grand Tour or not" launch an enthusiastic discussion among scholars. Furthermore, as a precious historical heritage, Grand Tour is an experience on cultivating talents that deserve detailed study.