Cathedrals of Consumption

This insightful exploration of department store history, Cathedrals of Consumption, reveals its cultural significance and evolution over time.

Originally published in 1999, Cathedrals of Consumption explores the rich history and cultural significance of department stores. This collection of articles showcases a variety of new approaches to understanding department store history, highlighting themes such as the new public spaces these stores created for women, the intricate politics of consumption, and the innovative architecture that characterized their design. The contributors delve into how these establishments not only served as retail spaces but also as cultural landmarks that reflected the social dynamics of their time.

The book examines the evolution of department stores from their emergence in the mid-nineteenth century through their golden age before the First World War. It addresses the challenges these stores faced in the increasingly competitive landscape of inter-war Europe. With contributions from a diverse group of historians, the text provides insights into the department store's role in urban life across various countries, including Britain, France, Germany, Belgium, and Hungary.

In Cathedrals of Consumption, an introductory essay sets the stage by exploring critical questions surrounding the department store phenomenon. The essays cover a broad spectrum of topics, including the training of the workforce, the cult of shopping, advertising strategies, and even shoplifting. By comparing the department store to eighteenth-century London, the book raises intriguing questions about the novelty of this retail format and its lasting impact on modern society.