It is well known that political, economic, and social power in the British Isles in the Middle Ages lay in the hands of a small group of domini-lords. In his final book, the late Sir Rees Davies explores the personalities of these magnates, the nature of their lordship, and the ways in which it was expressed in a diverse and divided region in the period 1272-1422. Although their right to rule was rarely questioned, the lords flaunted their identity and superiority through the promotion of heraldic lore, the use of elevated forms of address, and by the extravagant display of their wealth and power. Their domestic routine, furnishings, dress, diet, artistic preferences, and pastimes all spoke of a lifestyle of privilege and authority. Warfare was a constant element in their lives, affording access to riches and reputation, but also carrying the danger of capture, ruin and even death, while their enthusiasm for crusades and tournaments testified to their energy and bellicose inclinations. Above all, underpinning the lords' control of land was their control of men-a complex system of dependence and reward that Davies restores to central significance by studying the British Isles as a whole. The exercise and experience of lordship was far more varied than the English model alone would suggest.
Reviews
this is a characteristically bold and groundbreaking study ... Davies has opened up future areas of discussion in a range of ways ... this book, which combines a lightness of touch with an obvious mastery of its material, is a testament to the skills of both author and editor. * Michael Brown, History *
...a thoroughly-researched book which presents a wealth of information in an enjoyable and accessible way. In using contemporary documentation to illustrate his points, the author enlivens the text and makes his arguments easier to understand. A worthwhile and engrossing read. * High Middle Ages *
a wonderful and an inspirational book ... a work of real originality and importance, a fitting act of homage to one of Britain's finest medieval historians. * Chris Given-Wilson, English Historical Review *
An impressive work * Northern History *
An important aspect of the book is Davies's descision to discuss lordship in a British rather than a more limited English and Welsh Marcher context. ... it is a most valuable accumulation of insights into the many facets of aristocratic lordship, supported by telling examples, and expressed with the elegance and economy characteristic of Davies's work. * David Stephenson, Cambrian Medieval Celtic Studies *



Book Information
ISBN 9780199542918
Author Rees Davies
Format Hardback
Page Count 268
Imprint Oxford University Press
Publisher Oxford University Press
Weight(grams) 561g
Dimensions(mm) 241mm * 163mm * 21mm