From Norman Conquest to Magna Carta: England 1066-1215

Description

Using a combination of original sources and sharp analysis, this book is sheds new light on a crucial period in England's development. From Norman Conquest to Magna Carta is a wide-ranging history of England from 1066 to 1215 ideal for students and researchers throughout the field of medieval history. Starting with the build-up to the Battle of Hastings and ending with the Magna Carta, Christopher Daniell traces the profound change England underwent over the period, from religion and the life of the court through to arts and architecture. Central discussion topics include: how the Papacy became powerful enough to proclaim Crusades and to challenge kings how new monastic orders revitalized Christianity in England and spread European learning throughout the country how new Norman conquerors built cathedrals, monastries and castles, which changed the English landscape forever how by 1215 the king's administration had become more sophisticated and centralized how the acceptance of the Magna Carta by King John in 1215 would revolutionize the world in centuries to come. This volume will make essential reading for all students and researchers of medieval history. Cover Title Page Copyright Page Dedication Table of Contents List of illustrations Introduction 1 Hastings and after, 1066–1100 Background and battle Aftermath The impact of the Conquest 2 Peoples and families, 1066–1215 Normans and Anglo-Saxons Family politics The Anarchy The Plantagenets Magna Carta 3 Boundaries and networks Anglo-Norman aristocracy Boundaries Scotland and the northern border Wales Ireland Empire building Networks: dynasties and church The Mediterranean and the Crusades 4 Court life and power Kingship Feudalism Women, marriage and family Warfare 5 Government and justice The king and the curia regis The king’s household The role of the individual and family in government Absence of the king, family members and the justiciar The church and administration Rule of the provinces: sheriffs The court system Ecclesiastical courts The law 6 Religion The power of the church The papacy, reforms and England The structure of the church in England Patronage: the church and the laity The Jews Popular religion 7 Economy and society The economy and economic trends Specialisation and categorisation Space 8 The arts in England Twelfth-century Renaissance and education Languages Literature and drama Art Architecture Sources of inspiration Decoration Interrelationships Patrons, masons and materials Postscript Appendix: significant dates and facts about the monarchs of England, 1066-1216 Bibliography Index