| The largest of the royal parks, Hyde Park, was once owned by monks. King Henry VIII appropriated the land after he took control of the English church. It was opened to the public at the beginning of the 17th century and was a fashionable place to be seen, as well as a popular duelling ground. Located in the north-east corner of the park is the famous "Speakers Corner", where, since the 19th century it has been the custom for anyone who feels like it, to make a speech on any subject, provided they are not "obscene or blasphemous". |
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| | Glossary | | appropriate (v.) | | 占用, 据为己有 | |
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