The Kingdom of the Isles

The Kingdom of the Isles

Author: R. Andrew McDonald

Publisher: Birlinn Ltd

Published: 2008-08-01

Total Pages: 408

ISBN-13: 1788854128

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This study explores the history of the western seaboard of Scotland (the Hebrides, Argyll and the Isle of Man) in a formative but often neglected era: the central middle ages, from the mightly Somerled to his descendant John MacDonald, the first Lord of the Isles (c. 1336). Drawing on a variety of sources, this very readable narrative deals with three major and closely interrelated themes: first, the existence of the Isles and coastal mainland as a kingdom from c.1100 to 1266; second, the rulers of the region, Somerled and his descendants, the MacDougalls, MacDonalds and MacRuaris; and third, the often complex relations among the Isles, Scotland, Norway and England. A fully rounded history emerges, which transcends national viewpoints. While political history predominates, the changing nature of society in the isles is emphasised throughout, and separate chapters address the church and monasticism as well as the monuments – the castles, monasteries, churches and chapels that form an enduring legacy.


Medieval Scotland

Medieval Scotland

Author: Andrew D. M. Barrell

Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Published: 2000-09-18

Total Pages: 316

ISBN-13: 9780521586023

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A one-volume political and ecclesiastical history of Scotland from the eleventh century to the Reformation.


Border Bloodshed

Border Bloodshed

Author: Alastair J. Macdonald

Publisher: Birlinn Ltd

Published: 2008-03-04

Total Pages: 302

ISBN-13: 0857907743

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Scottish military offensives against England from 1369 were largely the product of government policy, were launched with careful timing and, in the reign of Robert II, involved close co-operation with France. They succeeded militarily, encouraging the Scots to the point where they were willing to engage in attacks on England beyond the ambition of their French allies. However, diplomatic gains fell well short of forcing English recognition of Scottish independence. Hopes of achieving this by military means were ended in the reign of Robert III when the Scots were heavily defeated in 1402. War was not solely fought with political objectives in mind or other 'rational' factors such as the quest for financial gain. The Scots went to war for emotive reasons too, such as hatred of the English, the search for renown and the sheer enjoyment of fighting. All these factors inspired the Scots to launch a series of bloody, brutal and ultimately futile offensives against England.


The Reign of Alexander II, 1214-49

The Reign of Alexander II, 1214-49

Author: Richard Oram

Publisher: BRILL

Published: 2005-04-01

Total Pages: 388

ISBN-13: 9047406826

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This nine-essay volume provides the first full-length, detailed exploration of the kingdom of Scotland during the reign of Alexander II (1214-49), and the most extensive analysis of this key state-builder and his policies.


The High Middle Ages in England 1154-1377

The High Middle Ages in England 1154-1377

Author: Bertie Wilkinson

Publisher: CUP Archive

Published: 1978-06-22

Total Pages: 150

ISBN-13: 9780521217323

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"All aspects of England in the High Middle Ages are covered, including sections on social, economic, religious, military, intellectual and art history, as well as on political and constitutional history."--Publisher description.


The Beaumont Twins

The Beaumont Twins

Author: David Crouch

Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Published: 2008-11-13

Total Pages: 274

ISBN-13: 9780521090131

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This book combines a study of Waleran of Meulan and Robert of Leicester with an exploration of the exercise of power in twelfth-century Normandy and England.


Aelred the Peacemaker

Aelred the Peacemaker

Author: Jean Truax

Publisher: Liturgical Press

Published: 2017-02-01

Total Pages: 344

ISBN-13: 0879070536

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In addition to being a prolific spiritual writer and the abbot of the premier Cistercian monastery in northern England, Aelred of Rievaulx somehow found the time and the stamina to travel extensively throughout the Anglo-Norman realm, acting as a mediator, a problem solver, and an adviser to kings. His career spanned the troubled years of the civil war between King Stephen and the Empress Matilda and reached its zenith during the early years of the reign of Henry II. In this work, Jean Truax focuses on the public career of Aelred of Rievaulx, placing him in his historical context, deepening the reader’s understanding of his work, and casting additional light on his underappreciated role as politician, mediator, and negotiator outside his abbey’s walls.


Treason

Treason

Author:

Publisher: BRILL

Published: 2019-05-06

Total Pages: 432

ISBN-13: 9004400699

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Set against the framework of modern political concerns, Treason: Medieval and Early Modern Adultery, Betrayal, and Shame considers the various forms of treachery in a variety of sources, including literature, historical chronicles, and material culture creating a complex portrait of the development of this high crime.


England and Her Neighbours, 1066-1453

England and Her Neighbours, 1066-1453

Author: Pierre Chaplais

Publisher: A&C Black

Published: 1989-01-01

Total Pages: 353

ISBN-13: 1852850140

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A collection of essays, in honour of Pierre Chaplais, which examine England's policies towards her neighbours between 1066 and 1453.