The age of calamity

IT'S now more than 60 years since the publication of May McKisack’s classic account of the 14th century, which appeared in the acclaimed ‘Oxford History of England’ series of volumes.

- David Robinson

Neatly, that work began with the death of Edward I in 1307 and focused on the reigns of Edward II (1307-27), Edward III (1327-77) and Richard II (1377-99). Importantly, historians have since given considerably more attention to the 14th century. Not least, each king has been the subject of a major biography and detailed studies on specific themes have been plentiful, ranging from politics and the economy, to chivalry and warfare, and to the role of women in all areas of society.

In this fast-paced and thrilling new book, however, Helen Carr looks at the 14th century afresh. Making judicious use of existing research, but also drawing—notably—on many contemporary chronicle and manuscript sources, she presents us with a remarkably evocative account of the high drama, excessive bloodshed and significant societal change during this tumultuous age.