A History of the Middle Ages, 3001500

By (author) John M. Riddle Assisted by Winston Black

Paperback - £66.00

Publication date:

25 February 2016

Length of book:

558 pages

Publisher

Rowman & Littlefield Publishers

ISBN-13: 9781442246843

This clear and comprehensive text covers the Middle Ages from the classical era to the late medieval period. John Riddle provides a cogent analysis of the rulers, wars, and events—both natural and human—that defined the medieval era. Taking a broad geographical perspective, Riddle includes northern and eastern Europe, Byzantine civilization, and the Islamic states. Each, he convincingly shows, offered values and institutions that presaged modernity. In addition to a thorough chronological narrative, the text offers humanizing features to engage students. Each chapter opens with a theme-setting vignette about daily life and introduces students to key controversies and themes in historiography by discussing the work of a prominent medieval historian. Richly illustrated with color plates, this lively, engaging book will immerse readers in the medieval world, an era that shaped the foundation for the modern world.
Rooted in the twilight of the Roman empire as its political unity, classical culture, and way of life waned, this well-written volume provides a comprehensive treatment of the Middle Ages. Eminent scholar John Riddle guides us expertly into the heart of these crucial twelve centuries, tracing their continuity while highlighting the extraordinary capacity for innovation in all aspects of European society, religion, politics, culture, science, and technology.