Castles: Their History and Evolution in Medieval Britain

Author: Marc Morris

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PRODUCT INFORMATION

Description

Beginning with their introduction in the eleventh century, and ending with their widespread abandonment in the seventeenth, Marc Morris explores many of the country's most famous castles, as well as some spectacular lesser-known examples.At times this is an epic tale, driven by characters like William the Conqueror, King John and Edward I, full of sieges and conquest on an awesome scale. But it is also by turns an intimate story of less eminent individuals, whose adventures, struggles and ambitions were reflected in the fortified residences they constructed. Be it ever so grand or ever so humble, a castle was first and foremost a home.To understand castles--who built them, who lived in them, and why--is to understand the forces that shaped medieval Britain.

Critic Reviews

“"Seeking to answer the question of how to precisely define castles, Morris has created a riveting tale of politics and violence, technology and innovation. Morris' slim yet detailed book moves us beyond an I-know-it-when-I-see-it impression and toward a real understanding of these buildings, creating a more vivid, rich and accurate view of England, Wales and Scotland in the medieval period."”

A fresh and accessible slice of medieval history. Morris's lively and accessible prose makes this a great entry point for readers new to English medieval history.
Enchanting journey through feudal England in the wake of Norman castle building. An engaging work that will no doubt prompt enthusiastic visits to castles around Britain.
Seeking to answer the question of how to precisely define castles, Morris has created a riveting tale of politics and violence, technology and innovation. Morris' slim yet detailed book moves us beyond an I-know-it-when-I-see-it impression and toward a real understanding of these buildings, creating a more vivid, rich and accurate view of England, Wales and Scotland in the medieval period.

About the Author

Marc Morris is a historian specializing in the Middle Ages. He is the author of A Great and Terrible King; King John; and the Wall Street Journal and USA Today bestselling The Norman Conquest. Marc lives in England.