Richard Huscroft Book order

The book delves into the political and religious transformations in Western Europe from the tenth to the thirteenth centuries, highlighting how dominant nation-states and religious institutions arose from the chaos of the post-Carolingian era. It provides insights into the interplay between power and faith during this pivotal period, illustrating the foundations of modern governance and religious authority.

Focusing on the formation of the kingdom of England, this book provides a chronological and thematic exploration of the period from 796 to 1042. It includes maps and genealogies to enhance understanding, making it an essential resource for students of Medieval History, particularly those interested in Medieval England.

"In an entirely new way, this book tells the story of the great medieval era, a period which saw the Crusades, Robin Hood, dynastic infighting on an epic scale, constant war and Magna Carta. Departing from the usual king-centric, high-politics perspective, Richard Huscroft weaves together the remarkable life stories of particular individuals--including priests, nobles, adventurers and exiles--who were embroiled in the drama of historic events."--Back cover.

A new history of post-conquest England which makes the new kingdom accessible through a focus on its kings and how it was ruled, featuring the empire building dynasties. The central theme of the book is the rise and fall of English kingship during this period and at its heart is the central question of how the ruler of the most sophisticated kingdom in 12th century Europe was eventually compelled to submit to the humiliation of Magna Carta at the start of the thirteenth. The book also reaffirms the importance of high politics in English history. No proper understanding of the wider aspects of medieval history (social, economic, cultural) is possible without a firm grounding in political events, and this book covers these themes in depth.

Focusing on the aftermath of the Norman Conquest, the book explores its profound impact on England, where the Anglo-Saxon elite was replaced by foreign rulers, reshaping the political, social, and cultural landscape. It highlights the emergence of a new English identity and the long-term effects on governance that influenced the Middle Ages. Additionally, the narrative extends to the repercussions felt in Wales, Scotland, and Normandy, providing a broader British and French context to this pivotal historical event.