Quisquilia: Lib. nov.

Berlin, (p. 124-125)
[…] former cap. of Germany and of Prussia; N Germany, in Brandenburg (from which it is administratively separate), on the Spree and Havel rivers. City area (344 sq. mi.) includes large forests and lakes. Until its virtual destruction in World War II Berlin was second largest city of Europe; political, economic, cultural center of Germany. […] Originating in two Wendish villages, Berlin and Kölln (merged 1307), city rose as member of the Hanseatic League; became cap. of Brandenburg (15th cent.) and of Prussia (1701); underwent phenomenal growth after becoming cap. of Germany. Has been occupied by Russo-Austrian forces (1760); by the French (1805); and by the Allies (1945-). […] Berlin experienced a vigorous intellectual and artistic revival in postwar period. […]

Marlowe, Christopher, (p. 776)
1564-93, English dramatist and poet. Leader of a „radical“ group, he was accused of atheism and blasphemy, and possibly a plot led to his being stabbed to death by a drinking companion. For dramatic power and development of blank verse into most expressive English meter, he is regarded as greatest Elizabethan playwright next to Shakespere. […]

Directoire style, (p. 341)
in French interior decoration and costume, the style of the Directory (1795-99); transition between Louis XVI and Empire styles. Departed from ornateness of aristocratic regime and emphasized classic design (esp. Pompeian forms). Furniture was more massive, with painted or waxed wood surfaces. […] Wallpaper and plain walls replaced tapestries and wainscoting. Women wore tight skirts, low necklines, and high waistlines.

ex:
The Columbia Viking Desk Encyclopedia (in 2 volumes),
The Viking Press / Columbia University Press: New York 1953