A renowned English lawyer, historian, and author who wrote extensively on the history of English law and the British monarchy, particularly on the reign of King Edward VII.
Ivor Forbes Guest was a renowned British historian and writer, best known for his meticulous study of ballet. As a prominent figure in the world of dance, Guest dedicated his life to chronicling the history of ballet, with a particular focus on the French ballet of the Second Empire.
Born on 14 April 1920 in Chislehurst, Kent, England, Guest's early life was marked by his father's experiences in the First World War. His father, Cecil Marmaduke Guest, served as a lieutenant in the Transvaal Scottish and was later made up to captain, serving with the South African Scottish in France. This exposure to history and war instilled in Guest a sense of curiosity and a desire to explore the past.
Despite pursuing a successful career as a lawyer, Guest's true passion lay in researching and writing about ballet. He spent his leisure time pouring over archives at the Bibliothèque de l'Opéra in Paris, uncovering hidden gems and piecing together the narrative of ballet's rich history. His first book, Napoleon III in England (1952), was a precursor to his later works, which would cement his reputation as a leading ballet historian.
Guest's writing focuses primarily on the ballet in Paris during the years 1770 to 1870, as well as the international careers of some of ballet's most celebrated stars. His magnum opus, The Ballet of the Second Empire (1953), is a seminal work that has been widely acclaimed for its meticulous research and engaging narrative. Other notable publications include Fanny Cerrito: Life of a Romantic Ballerina (1956) and numerous articles in esteemed dance journals.
In recognition of his significant contributions to the world of ballet, Guest received several accolades, including being made a Doctor of the University by the University of Surrey in 1997, its highest honorary doctorate. He also served as chairman of the Royal Academy of Dance for twenty-three years (1970-1993) and as a Vice-President since 1993.
Guest's personal life was marked by his marriage to Ann Hutchinson Guest, a renowned movement notation expert. He also acted as a trustee of the Language of Dance Centre, which she founded. This partnership not only brought him love and support but also deepened his understanding of dance and its history.
Ivor Forbes Guest's life's work has had a profound impact on the world of ballet, inspiring generations of dancers, choreographers, and historians. His meticulous research and engaging writing style have made ballet's rich history accessible to a wider audience, ensuring that the art form continues to evolve and thrive. Through his contributions, Guest has left an indelible mark on the world of dance, cementing his place as one of the most distinguished ballet historians of our time.
Guest passed away on 30 March 2018, at the age of 97, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire and educate future generations of dance enthusiasts.
Born in 1924
A pioneering social historian and activist who reshaped the field of history with his groundbreaking works on the British working class, particularly "The Making of the English Working Class".
Born in 1912
A 17th-century historian who wrote extensively on the English Civil War and its radical movements, offering a Marxist perspective on the era's social and political upheavals.
Born in 1917
A renowned historian and author who wrote extensively on the rise of industrial capitalism and the development of socialist and communist movements in the 19th and 20th centuries. His works provide insightful perspectives on modern history and its complexities.
Born in 1913
A renowned Marxist historian and literary critic, known for his works on British and European history, as well as his critiques of imperialism and capitalism.
97 Years Old
A philosopher who challenged modern moral philosophy by arguing that morality is rooted in tradition and community, and that we need to revive the Aristotelian concept of virtues to live a good life.
