Medieval times for the military and for citizens, for wealthy or poor, for the farm worker and the intellectual, stand in deep contrast to modern times - this detailed and illustrated history delves into major facets of life in the Middle Ages.
We hear how knights spent years in training as pages and squires, and how jousting tourneys between knights on horseback were popular entertainment. The architectural design of castles required advances in siege warfare; wars raged during most of the era. Yet these mighty structures in peaceable times served not merely a military purpose - the courts and feasts of kings and nobles, and the music and arts of Medieval times, commonly ensued in a castle setting. The economic system was called feudalism; whereby peasants worked a Lord's land, and swore an oath of fealty to his service.
Some 110 illustrations accompany the explanations of life; plans of castles, drawings of town life, of armored knights and social gatherings. These fine sketches breathe further life into the author's narration, and their style is influenced by Medieval paintings and tapestries. The monastic origins of formal education and scientific culture, and events in the busy towns and cities, are described with accuracy and example. Eva March Tappan's abundant experiences as historian, author and teacher are evidenced by the high quality of her writing.