Medieval Britain: A Very Short Introduction

This slim volume packs a great deal in to introduce Medieval Britain to the reader perhaps not familiar with the period. The book covers both chronological history, focusing in particular on the Kings from William I to Richard III and a thematic treatment of issues such as the development of national identity and the evolution of the peasantry during this period. It was a 400 year sweep that saw the power of monarchs oscillate wildly against the backdrop of growing commercialisation of society, the buds of individual liberty for citizens, the fledgling time or parliament and messy and often bloody entanglements with other nations (Scots, Irish, Welsh, French), the vested interests of the aristocracy, and the Church. You may remember some of the choice incidents of this era from school - the Norman Conquest, Magna Carta, Peasants Revolt, War of the Roses. But this book is much more than a simple introduction, and will spark the intelligent reader into developing their study of this fascinating period when Britain really began to take shape as the United Kingdom we recognise today.