The Infernal Devices: London, 1878

By: Annie (edited by: Maya Helen)

Cover art by: Nanananana9

The Infernal Devices (TID) is one of Cassie’s best series to date. With the mystical beauty of Victorian London, masked balls, and misty streets with flickering lamplights, it was truly magical. In this article, I’ll be talking about the different places in London that our TID gang went to, and where they are today!

#1

East End and West End

In the 1800s, (and even now) London is divided into two parts, East End, and West End. East End was known for poverty, high population, and overcrowding. It was also the place where the Jack the Ripper murders took place. West End, on the other hand was known for its mansions and richness, the ‘fashionable’ end of London. Tessa has often drawn parallels between these two areas, how they’re close geographically, yet still worlds apart.

#2

Fleet Street

The London Institute is on Fleet Street! Even today, Fleet Street is one of the major roads in London.. The Institute is in the place of the St Brides Church, one of the three churches located there. During Tessa’s time, there were mostly printing presses, taverns, and other small stores and pubs located on the street. Still, Fleet Street remains one of the most iconic places in London.

#3

Blackfriars Bridge

This is Tessa and Jem’s special place. First introduced in Clockwork Angel, it continues it fame throughout the series. The bridge is even mentioned in Cassie’s latest release, The Lost Book of the White. For those wondering, yes, it is a real bridge. It spans over 900 feet, overlooking the River Thames, supported by five arches running under the belly of the bridge. Definitely worth a visit if you’re ever in London.

#4

Chiswick

Will, Tessa and Jem have gone to Benedict Lightwood’s ‘Chiswick House’ plenty of times! We all remember the time on the *cough* balcony, don’t we? Even today, Chiswick sports brilliant Victorian, Edwardian, and Georgian architecture. Even up until now, it’s pieces have survived.

#5

Cadair Idris

Cadair Idris was the mountain where Mortmain had built and stored his automaton army, as well as known to be near where Cecily and Will had grown up. The final, epic battle in TID takes place there. Even in our world, many odd myths circle around it, Notably those of bottomless lakes and wandering spirits.

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Addendum

The Infernal Devices is one of the best series I have ever read – and ever will read. I hope you found this article interesting!