Books matching: 14th century england
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- #1
Save:'The Time Traveller's Guide to Medieval England: A Handbook for Visitors to the Fourteenth Century' by Ian Mortimer is a popular history book that delves into the lived experience of people in the fourteenth century. The book offers a detailed exploration of everyday life, social hierarchy, travel, health, hygiene, education, literature, and more during this period. Mortimer vividly describes various aspects of life, from food and clothing to laws and entertainment, making the distant time and place of medieval England concretely visible to readers. The book is structured like a modern travel guide, providing insights into the culture shock a visitor would have experienced in the fourteenth century.
It is the cathedral that you will see first. As you journey along the road you come to a break in the trees and there it is, massive and magnificent, cresting the hilltop in the morning sun. Despite t... - #2
Save:Set in 14th century England, 'Morality Play' by Barry Unsworth follows a young monk, Nicholas Barber, who joins a theatre troupe and gets involved in investigating a murder in a small town. The troupe decides to enact the murder as a play to attract an audience, leading to a deeper investigation that uncovers surprising truths about the crime and the people involved. The novel is praised for its rich historical detail, exploration of moral dilemmas, and the clever intertwining of the improvised play with the real-life drama.
Brendan and I saw the moment of it. I saw them gather round and crouch over him in the bitter cold, then start back to give the soul passage. It was as if they played his death for me and this was a s... - #3
Save:'A Vision of Light' by Judith Merkle Riley is a historical fiction novel set in 14th century England that follows the story of Margaret of Ashbury, a strong and resourceful woman who acquires supernatural powers of healing. The book delves into the challenges Margaret faces in a society where women are limited in their opportunities and rights, while also incorporating elements of humor and historical details to create an engaging narrative. Through the eyes of Margaret and Brother Gregory, the reader is taken on a journey filled with adversity, triumph, and the complexities of medieval life.
The novel is narrated in a dual perspective, switching between Margaret's first-person account of her life and the interactions with Brother Gregory in third person. This storytelling technique adds depth to the characters and allows for a rich exploration of themes such as misogyny, religious beliefs, and societal norms in 14th century England. With a touch of the fantastical and a strong focus on character development, 'A Vision of Light' offers a compelling tale of resilience, compassion, and the pursuit of personal agency amidst historical challenges.
“Put in it what you have seen. There is nothing wrong with being a woman, and doing ordinary things. Sometimes small deeds can show big ideas. As for writing, do as others do: get someone to write it ... - #4
Save:'Katherine' by Anya Seton is a historical fiction novel that brings to life the relationship between Katherine Swynford and John of Gaunt in 14th century England. The book is praised for its detailed descriptions of the time period, rich historical accuracy, and the portrayal of the intertwined lives of the main characters. Seton's writing style is described as beautifully written, captivating, and immersive, making readers feel like they are experiencing the events alongside the characters.
The invisible sun had scarcely risen as they quitted the little convent of Sheppey, and guiding the horses westward towards the Kentish mainland, rode gingerly down the steep hill. Dripping dun clouds... - #5
Save:'World Without End' by Ken Follett is a historical fiction novel set in the 14th century, serving as a sequel to 'The Pillars of the Earth.' The book follows the lives of various characters in the town of Kingsbridge, 200 years after the construction of the medieval cathedral. The narrative delves into the challenges faced by the villagers during the outbreak of the plague, exploring themes of ambition, love, greed, revenge, and the role of the church in society. Despite being a lengthy tome, the book intricately weaves together multiple plots and characters, providing insights into the day-to-day struggles and ordeals of individuals living in the 12th century.
“I can make the formwork,” Merthin said, already thinking about how the frame would be supported by the scaffolding, and the platform on which the masons would have to stand. “But these vaults were no...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Kingsbridge ) - #6
Save:Set in 14th century England, "By Design" is a medieval historical romance novel by Madeline Hunter. The story follows the characters Rhys, a freemason with a hidden agenda, and Joan, a highborn lady in disguise, as they navigate a world of political intrigue and forbidden love. The book beautifully explores themes of compassion, trauma, and the struggle for justice in a society controlled by power-hungry figures like Queen Isabella and Mortimer. Hunter's writing style is described as authentic and engaging, with well-developed characters and a strong plot that seamlessly weaves together romance and historical detail.
The market roared and splashed all around her motionless body. Peddlers of skins and barrels, of pigs and fish, crowded the small space that she had claimed for her wares. Her ragged gown, of a pale s...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Medieval ) - #7
Save:'The Good Wife of Bath' by Karen Brooks is a captivating fictional biography that follows the life of Eleanor Alyson, a strong and ambitious woman living in 14th century England. The book cleverly weaves historical events, Chaucer's tales, and Eleanor's personal journey, depicting the challenges and triumphs of a woman navigating a society that devalues women based on their sex. Through Eleanor's experiences with marriages, business endeavors, and societal limitations, the narrative explores themes of resilience, creativity, and female empowerment.
Brooks' writing style in 'The Good Wife of Bath' is praised for its authenticity and humor, particularly in the portrayal of Eleanor's character. The book is described as a page-turner that vividly brings medieval England to life, with richly drawn characters, detailed locations, and engaging events. Through Eleanor's story, the author skillfully delves into the complexities of gender roles, societal expectations, and the limited choices available to women during that time period.
Alison Weir's 'Queen Isabella: Treachery, Adultery, and Murder in Medieval England' delves into the intriguing life of Queen Isabella, exploring her political and romantic entanglements. Weir presents a detailed and sympathetic account of Isabella's life, aiming to rehabilitate her reputation from being maligned by history. The book offers an interesting historical glimpse into the life of this forgotten queen, dispelling myths and providing a balanced portrait of her.
In Newgate Street, in the City of London, stand the meager ruins of Christ Church, a stark reminder of the devastation caused by the Blitz during the Second World War. This is the site of Christ's Hos...- #9
Save:In "Company of Liars" by Karen Maitland, the story unfolds during the outbreak of the Plague in England, following a group of nine strangers led by an elderly peddler named Camelot as they journey through the country to escape the pestilence. Each character has a dark secret that is gradually revealed, intertwining their lives and creating a sense of mystery and suspense. The narrative is rich in historical details, superstitions, and occult references, capturing the essence of the Middle Ages and the dangers of that era.
The book is a blend of historical fiction, mystery, horror, and fantasy elements, with a narrative reminiscent of Chaucer's Canterbury Tales. As the characters navigate through medieval England, facing religious intolerance, superstitions, and the threat of the Plague, the story delves into themes of deception, secrets, and survival. The writing style is described as beautifully crafted, compelling, and haunting, drawing readers into a world where reality and fantasy intertwine, creating a gripping tale of mistrust, friendship, and the unknown.
They say that if you suddenly wake with a shudder, a ghost has walked over your grave. I woke with a shudder on that Midsummer's Day. And although I had no way of foreseeing the evil that day would br... - #10
Save:In fourteenth century England, a young peasant boy named Crispin finds himself accused of a crime he didn't commit, leading to a death sentence that forces him to flee his village. Along his journey to clear his name and start a new life, he meets a colorful jester named Bear who values freedom above all else. Despite facing danger at every turn, Crispin's story unfolds as he navigates the harsh realities of medieval England, uncovering secrets about his heritage and identity.
Set against the backdrop of feudalistic medieval Britain, "Crispin: The Cross of Lead" by Avi vividly brings to life the oppressive conditions faced by serfs during the 1300s. Through the eyes of Crispin, readers are taken on a thrilling and endearing tale of survival, friendship, and self-discovery, as the protagonist grapples with challenges that test his courage and resilience in a world filled with danger and uncertainty.
THE DAY AFTER MY MOTHER died, the priest and I wrapped her body in a gray shroud and carried her to the village church. Our burden was not great. In life she had been a small woman with little strengt...
