The Oxford illustrated history of the British monarchy

Cannon and Griffiths's splendidly illustrated book is a survey of the development of the British monarchy since the fifth century. It has six chapters: "Diverse Origins, c. 400-1016"; "The Age of Empires', 1016-1216"; "Monarch and Nation, 1216-1509"; "Governing Monarchy, 1509-1689"; "Mixed Monarchy, 1689-1820"; and "Popular Monarchy, 1820-1988." Drawing upon secondary sources, the authors (both professional historians) tell a familiar story but do so with good sense, clarity, and conciseness. Equal attention is given to the personalities of the monarchs and to the evolution of the institution of monarchy. There is little discussion of mystique, perhaps because the authors are determinedly unsentimental about their subject. The illustrations, some 400, depict more strikingly than the text the glamor and changing character of monarchy. The book has an illustrated section of royal residences and tombs, a consolidated list of monarchs, and an excellent annotated bibliography. As a survey, the work is without peer. Highly recommended for general and undergraduate readers. -J. A. Thompson, University of Kentucky

Big and beautiful, this lushly illustrated volume traces the history of the millennium-old British monarchy from the immediate post-Roman period, when the concept of kingship was still vague at best, to the present day, with Queen Elizabeth II occupying a secure place on the throne and in the hearts of the people. In a swiftly moving but comprehensive narrative, the authors, both British professors of history, examine the evolving character of kingship, always keeping in mind that the monarchy is an institution stamped at every turn by the individual personalities of the men and women who wear the crown. This book is perfectly suited to the general reader: lovely to look at, wonderfully helpful as a source of specific information, a delight to read straight through. Without being cumbersome, it gives a distinct feel of the nature of Britain's hallowed monarchy through all its epochs. Appended: photographs and textual descriptions of all royal residences and all royal burial places; family trees; bibliography; and index. BH.