The Discovery of Islands consists of a series of linked essays in British history, written by one of the world's leading historians of political thought and published over the past three decades. Its purpose is to present British history as that of several nations interacting with - and sometimes seceding from - an imperial state. The commentary presents this history as that of an archipelago, expanding across oceans to the Antipodes. Both New Zealand history and the author's New Zealand heritage inform this vision, presenting British history as oceanic and global, complementing (and occasionally criticising) the presentation of that history as European. Professor Pocock's interpretation of British history has been hugely influential in recent years, making The Discovery of Islands a resource of immense value for historians of Britain and the world.

Linked essays presenting British history as oceanic and global, rather than simply history.

About the Author
J. G. A.Pocock is Harry C. Black Professor Emeritus at Johns Hopkins University, and one of the leading historians of ideas in the world.

Reviews
"This collection of essays will prove a valuable resource... (A)n engaging and thought provoking contribution to a growing body of work concerned with rethinking the meaning of British history" Todd Webb, Canadian Journal of History



Book Information
ISBN 9780521616454
Author J. G. A. Pocock
Format Paperback
Page Count 358
Imprint Cambridge University Press
Publisher Cambridge University Press
Weight(grams) 572g
Dimensions(mm) 228mm * 152mm * 28mm