Guest - A Widow's Son
Might I suggest you try to obtain a copy of the book "The Lectures of the Three Degrees of Freemasonry". My copy is dated 1947 and was published by A. Lewis, who still sell Masonic Regalia. Toye might also have it.
The full lectures are rarely done in Lodge due to restrictions of time but the full version does explain how and where the ritual as done in Lodge fits in with the history. I found that it answered most of my questions, probably similar to yours, and enabled me to fit things together.
Otherwise PM me with a letter or a half and and I may be able to help you.
Colyn.