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"Some particular books I found useful for A Game of Thrones and its sequels deserve mention... Life in a Medieval Castle and Life in a Medieval City, both by Joseph and Frances Gies." —George R.R. Martin, author of the series A Song of Ice and Fire
Medieval history comes alive in Joseph and Frances Gies's Life in a Medieval Castle, used as a research resource by George R. R. Martin in creating the world of Game of Thrones.
Newly reissued for the first time in decades, Life in a Medieval Castle is the bestselling classic that has introduced countless readers to the wonders of the Middle Ages. Focusing on a castle called Chepstow on the border between England and Wales, acclaimed Medievalists Joseph and Frances Gies offer an exquisite portrait of what day-to-day life was actually like during the era, and of the key role the castle played. The Gieses write eloquently about the many people whose lives revolved around the castle, from the lord and lady to the commoners of the surrounding village. We discover what lords and serfs alike would have worn, eaten, and done for leisure; the songs sung; and the codes of sexual conduct that maintained order. We learn of the essential role of honor in medieval culture, the initiation process undertaken by knights, and how castles attempted to keep the constant threats of outside violence at bay.
Exhaustively researched and as engaging as any novel, Life in a Medieval Castle is the definitive text for anyone wishing to learn more about this fascinating era.
To this day, the remains of medieval castles dot the landscape of Europe. These mighty relics, many close to a thousand years old, are durable symbols of a long forgotten way of life. During the height of the Middle Ages, the castle was an integral part of the social system known as feudalism. Castles were of course used for defense, but also as storehouses, gathering places, and symbols of prestige.
In Life in a Medieval Castle, historians Joseph and Frances Gies explore the world of the many people who lived in, maintained and depended on these remarkable structures. They also trace the evolution of the castle from its origins in the timber forts built by William the Conqueror to its inevitable demise, as defense technologies improved and other forms of architecture came into vogue. This remarkable book explains not only the castle itself as a building, but also the world that revolved around it. Frances and Joseph Gies have been writing books about medieval history for more than thirty years. Together and separately, they are the authors of more than twenty books, including Life in a Medieval City, Life in a Medieval Castle, Life in a Medieval Village, The Knight in History, and Cathedral, Forge, and Waterwheel. They live near Ann Arbor, Michigan. “The authors allow medieval man and woman to speak for themselves through selections from past journals, songs, even account books.” — TIMEYou may also like
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