Coming of Age as a Skeptic

The above pictures were taken at Christ Church at the University of Oxford.  This is where Sebastian went when he studied at Oxford.   Sebastian went to Christ Church because his father did.  His family thought it was important to carry on the family legacy and for Sebastian to follow in his father's footsteps.  Oxford is the second oldest university in the world.  It has gothic architecture on the majority of its buildings.  Christ Church has had 13 prime ministers pass through its halls.  Christ Church prides itself on highlighting power rather than beauty.  This is why living arrangements are not up to modern day standards.  Eduction and power is their main focus, not the luxuries of modern day.  Sebastian and Charles would have lived on campus and dealt with these living arrangements.  However, a perk of living at Oxford is shown when Sebastian got sick in Charles' room, the scout (maid) cleaned up after him. 

Christ Church highlights prestige, wealth, and influence on English culture and society.  The picture above shows the dining hall of Christ Church.  The portraits shown depict powerful individuals that went through the college.  This shows the power and wealth the Oxford students strive for.  Prestige was taught because students would have to be invited to sit up at the head of the room with the professors.  If invited, it was a big deal.  Christ Church teaches its students to fear God, love the brotherhood, and to honor the King.  This saying is engraved on the wall of the cathedral.  Sebastian was also raised to embody these statements.  He grew up with wealth, prestige, and an understanding about society during his time.

As you can see, Eltham Palace has many different architectural styles on its exterior.  It is a medieval palace that was restored and renewed in the 1930s.  The exterior doesn't match the interior in the way a typical palace would.  Inside, the palace looks more modern for its time.  The palace grows slightly with the ages because of the different architecture and styles.  Both modern and ancient artifacts and furnishings are inside.  Charles adored Brideshed because he "loved buildings that grew slightly with the centuries, capturing and keeping the best of each generation."  Like Brideshed, Eltham Palace is like a time machine.  By walking through the property, you are able to see different styles and artifacts from many generations all shown in glamourous ways.