The Birth of Nobility: Constructing Aristocracy in England and France, 900-1300

by David Crouch

Overview

For 300 years separate and mutually uncomprehending English and French historiographies have confused the history of medieval aristocracy. Unpicking the basic assumptions behind both national traditions, this book explains them, reconciles them and offers entirely new ways to take the study of aristocracy forward in both England and France.

The Birth of Nobility analyses the enormous international field of publications on the subject of medieval aristocracy, breaking it down into four key debates: noble conduct, noble lineage, noble class and noble power. Each issue is subjected to a thorough review by comparing current scholarship with what a vast range of historical source material actually says. It identifies the points of divergence in the national traditions of each of these debates and highlights where they have been mutually incomprehensible.

For students studying medieval Europe.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780582369818
Publisher:	Taylor & Francis
Publication date:	06/02/2005
Edition description:	New Edition
Pages:	384
Product dimensions:	6.12(w) x 9.19(h) x (d)

About the Author

David Crouch

Table of Contents

FOREWORD INTRODUCTION PART ONE : NOBLE CONDUCT PART TWO : NOBLE DESCENT PART THREE : NOBLE CLASS PART FOUR : NOBLE LORDSHIP SELECT BIBLIOGRAPHY INDEX

Editorial Reviews

'' Under the broad headings of conduct, descent, class and lordship, shows how scholarship over the past centuries has resulted in the perceptions today.''

British and Irish Bibliography

From the Publisher