Memory and the Dissolution of the Monasteries in Early Modern England

The dissolution of the monasteries in early modern England was a significant event that shaped contemporary historical consciousness, the topographical imagination, and local tradition. Memory and the Dissolution explores this historical moment through a long chronological view, revealing how it was remembered and how this memory evolved in subsequent generations. It challenges the assumptions of conventional historiography and exposes the fall of the religious houses as one of the most profound and controversial transformations of the English Reformation.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 301 pages
Publication date: 02 November 2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

The dissolution of the monasteries in early modern England was a momentous event that reverberated across religious, cultural, and socio-economic realms. It left a lasting impact on contemporary historical consciousness, shaping the way we perceive the past and influencing the development of local traditions. In her book, Memory and the Dissolution, Harriet Lyon delves into the complex and multifaceted aspects of this historical rupture. She argues that our understanding of this period is enhanced by taking a long-term chronological perspective, exploring how the suppression was remembered by those who witnessed it and how this memory evolved over time.

Lyon challenges the traditional historiography that has been heavily influenced by Henrician narratives and sources, unveiling a more nuanced and complex picture of the fall of the religious houses. She reveals that the dissolution was remembered as one of the most significant and controversial transformations of the English Reformation, eliciting strong emotions and debates among individuals and communities.

One of the key themes explored in the book is the role of memory in shaping historical narratives. Lyon argues that the memories of the dissolution were not uniform or consistent, and that different individuals and communities had their own perspectives and interpretations. She explores how these memories were transmitted through generations, and how they were shaped by cultural, social, and political factors.

Lyon also examines the political and social implications of the dissolution. She argues that the fall of the monasteries was not just a religious or cultural event, but also a significant shift in power and authority. The confiscation of monastic lands and assets led to the enrichment of the nobility and gentry, while the dissolution of the monasteries disrupted the social and economic structures of many communities.

The book also sheds light on the cultural and artistic legacy of the monasteries. Lyon argues that the dissolution led to the loss of a rich source of knowledge, literature, and art, which had been preserved and developed by the monastic communities over centuries. She explores how these cultural treasures were dispersed and how they were remembered and celebrated in subsequent generations.

Memory and the Dissolution is a valuable contribution to the study of early modern England, offering a fresh perspective on a momentous historical event. Through her meticulous research and engaging writing, Lyon provides a deeper understanding of the complexities and consequences of the dissolution, challenging our assumptions and illuminating new avenues for exploration.

Weight: 460g
Dimension: 153 x 229 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781009014236