Having never been outside of America, I didn’t know what to expect during our time in London. My only knowledge of the city and its inhabitants came from various forms of entertainment as well as many history classes throughout the years. From these sources I had gathered that the British are generally friendly and well-mannered people, who are normally more reserved than their American counterparts (except for when they “get a little pissed” according to Sergeant Justin Scholes of the RAF, a man whom I met at a bar). In addition to this I also was aware that the British are very proud of their island nation’s rich history.
The first thing I noticed upon my arrival in London (and during the long DLR ride from London City Airport to Bank station) was the city’s remarkable blend of old and new; stone buildings dating to Imperial times adjacent to chic business towers made of glass. However, this realization, much like my previous background information on London, was superficial. It was during our exploration of the area around Trafalgar Square that I first began to realize and appreciate just how much the British value history and its impact on their culture.
When visiting sights such as the Tower of London, London Bridge, HMS Belfast, Buckingham Palace, and St. Paul’s Cathedral I was able to gather a very real sense of the historical events that occurred there. Despite their importance and beauty not one of these extraordinary places came close to matching splendor of Westminster Abbey. For me personally, this location was truly awe-inspiring. Even before I entered the building the historical significance of the site and its contents was palpable; once I was inside, I was dumbfounded. Here lay so many of the historical figures that I have learned about since my early childhood. Charles Darwin, Sir Isaac Newton, William Shakespeare, Geoffrey Chaucer, Mary Queen of Scots, various kings and queens to name only a few. All congregated in one final resting place. Many of whom were laid to rest a mere meters (centimeters in some cases) away from each other. It was difficult to wrap my head around the importance those who are buried there. To see the grave of Charles Darwin was especially incredible. For the past four semesters I have been in a biology course of some sort. All of which have spent a considerable amount of time (a week and a half at the very least) in teaching the discoveries and theories of Darwin. In seeing his burial place I was utterly beside myself. In addition to the significance of its inhabitants and its magnificently ornate architecture and craftsmanship, the sheer age of Westminster Abbey was breathtaking. There was a mural that was over 770 years old. 770 years old!
One of the greatest parts of this trip so far has been my classmates. It’s great to share this experience with people with similar interests as me and who get just as excited over a 770 year old painting. I’m sad to be leaving London, but I’m very excited for the rest of the trip!
