Castles cover art

Castles

Their History and Evolution in Medieval Britain

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Castles

By: Marc Morris
Narrated by: Derek Perkins
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About this listen

Beginning with their introduction in the 11th century, and ending with their widespread abandonment in the 17th, Marc Morris explores many of the country's most famous castles, as well as some spectacular lesser-known examples.

At times this is an epic tale, driven by characters like William the Conqueror, King John, and Edward I, full of sieges and conquest on an awesome scale. But it is also by turns an intimate story of less eminent individuals, whose adventures, struggles, and ambitions were reflected in the fortified residences they constructed. Be it ever so grand or ever so humble, a castle was first and foremost a home.

To understand castles - who built them, who lived in them, and why - is to understand the forces that shaped medieval Britain.

©2017 Marc Morris (P)2017 Tantor Architecture Europe Great Britain Medieval Military Middle ages England Royalty Scotland

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Critic reviews

"Captivating and entertaining. More than just a study of architecture, weaponry, and personalities, Castles pieces together a comprehensive overview that gives a fresh take on medieval and early modern Britain and the forces that shaped it." ( BBC History Magazine)
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Very interesting but maybe could have gone further on the actual castle’s. As in many history books the same history is churned out rather than staying specific to the subject. It is however a great author and much of interest.

Interesting

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Covers the fact a castle is part home part defensive structure from origins through to the end of the Civil War. Very enjoyable.

Excellent Audiobook

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Love Marc Morris’s work and this is my favourite. I have the book but it’s nice to have someone to read it to me. Thoroughly enjoyable listen. Marc’s enthusiasm for the castles comes through fully.

Castles

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An interesting narrative for anyone wanting to learn more about the roles these iconic structures played in the history of Britain.

The book explores the features of castles and how they differ and changed over time.

I enjoyed the description of the siege of Rochester, and whilst parts of the book strayed off topic I have enjoyed the enthusiasm of the narrator throughout.

Re-moat-ly Interesting

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I have always liked the authors books and his knowledge on castles. This book did not let me down, nor did the narrator.

Wonderful

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Having a love of history, this book was very interesting and informative. Will easily listen again.

Castles

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One of the most interesting and enjoyable listens I've had in ages. it's very informative and detailed but not in a dry way. I highly recommend reading if your remotely interested in castles.

superb book

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excellent piece of history very well narrated recommend if you like castles give it a go

interesting book,

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Loved this audio book on our castles.
I come from Pontefract and would like to correct the narrator in that Pontefract is actually in the, what was, West Riding of Yorkshire, not South Yorkshire ( that would be Conisborough Castle)
Also the narrator pronounces Belvoir Castle as it's written, when in fact it's pronounced Beevor Castle.
It was with some warmth that I listened to this audio, as I could visualise such castle by the great narration and skill of the writer.I
A very well researched and presented work. The rebels who kept taking Pontefract Castle did indeed show allegiance to Charles the First son Charles the second, in that the town's cost of arms reads 'Post mortem Patris Pro Folio' ( after death of the father, we are for the son), fitting then as now.
Great listen and I'll come back to it as well.
Starting on King John now and then Magna Carta.
Thank you Mr Morris

A Lovely Story of our Castles

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loved it such an interesting view on how castles became so important and then completely useless

brilliant

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