The Castle: A History

The British castle has a long and vibrant history, from the early Middle Ages to the present day, serving as a symbol of lordship, landholding, and military might. John Goodall's book explores the castle's importance in culture and society, drawing on chronicles, poems, letters, and novels to reveal its various uses and continued inspiration.

Format: Hardback
Length: 400 pages
Publication date: 08 March 2022
Publisher: Yale University Press

The castle has played a significant role in British history, spanning from the early Middle Ages to the present day. It has been associated with lordship, landholding, and military power, and it continues to be a powerful symbol of the past. However, castles were not just mere fortresses; they were vibrant centers of life, activity, and imagination.

John Goodall, in his book "The Castle in Britain: A Thousand Years of History," weaves together the history of the British castle across a millennium, from the eleventh to the twenty-first century. He explores the importance of the castle in our culture and society by drawing on chronicles, poems, letters, and novels, including the works of figures such as Gawain Poet, Walter Scott, Evelyn Waugh, and P. G. Wodehouse.

Goodall reveals that the castle has been put to various uses throughout its history, from the medieval period to Civil War engagements and modern manifestations in popular culture, such as Harry Potter. He demonstrates that the castle continues to serve as a source of inspiration and fascination for people today.

The book provides a comprehensive and engaging account of the castle's history, its significance in British culture, and its enduring legacy. It is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the history, architecture, and culture of Britain.

Dimension: 21 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780300251906