THE SHORTER CAMBRIDGE MEDIEVAL HISTORY

by Philip- Ed. Grierson ‧ RELEASE DATE: Sept. 26, 1952

Professor Previte-Orton, one of the original editors in 1936 of the definitive 8-volume Cambridge Medieval History, had before his death virtually finished the abridgement of this work into two volumes -- here published under Grierson's editorship. In part a rewriting, in part a distillation, in part an abridgement, this serves the purpose- for the general reader desiring a competent, readable, and sound approach to the subject -- what Toynbee's one volume summation (edited by Somerville) bears to his greater work. The careful selection of some 300 pictures illustrating the text makes this infinitely more appealing than the original edition for the average reader. Inevitably, something of the flavor of a scholarly work survives the editing and the use of subheads gives it a textbook appearance. But for reading purposes- as well as reference- it is easier to use than a solid text page. And many readers -- versed in the fictional presentation of the period so popular in recent best sellers- are feeling the lack of sound background of knowledge. Watch this for a publication that may not be a quick seller but is good for the long haul.

Pub Date: Sept. 26, 1952

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Cambridge Univ. Press

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Sept. 1, 1952

Categories: NONFICTION