A Distant Mirror: The Calamitous 14th Century by Barbara W. Tuchman

A Distant Mirror offers a vivid and comprehensive look at the 14th century, a time of stark contrasts. This period is often romanticized for its crusades, cathedrals, and chivalry, but it was also marked by profound chaos and spiritual turmoil. Barbara W. Tuchman delves into the daily lives of people from all walks of life, from serfs and nobles to clergy and knights, providing a rich tapestry of historical detail. /n/n Tuchman's meticulous research and engaging storytelling bring to life the complexities of the era, including the Hundred Years' War, the Papal Schism, and the impact of the bubonic plague. She explores the social, political, and cultural dynamics that shaped the century, offering insights into the loyalties, treacheries, and passions of the people who lived through these tumultuous times.

Reviews

Resident Judge · 2021-10-13

informative 3.50

The book focuses more on statecraft and rivalry than social conditions, leaving the reader to draw their own parallels to the modern world. It's a dense read but offers valuable insights into the 14th century.

The reviewer appreciates the book's focus on statecraft and rivalry, which they find more compelling than the social conditions of the time. They note that the book doesn't offer a direct comparison to the modern world, leaving that task to the reader. The dense narrative is seen as a challenge, but the insights into the 14th century are valuable. The reviewer also mentions that the book's length and detail might be overwhelming for some, but it's a rewarding read for those interested in historical analysis.

Quick quotes

The book deals more with statecraft and rivalry, more than social conditions.

Did I feel any better about our current world by the end of the book?

It's a dense read, but offers valuable insights into the 14th century.

She Reads Novels · 2018-06-24

engaging 4.00

The book draws parallels between the 14th century and more recent events, offering a unique perspective on history. The focus on England and France is noted, but the reviewer appreciates the engaging narrative.

The reviewer highlights the book's ability to draw parallels between the 14th century and more recent events, providing a unique perspective on history. They note that the focus on England and France might be a limitation for some readers, but the engaging narrative makes up for it. The reviewer also appreciates the book's ability to make history accessible and interesting, even for those who might not typically enjoy historical texts. The detailed analysis of the 14th century is seen as a strength, offering valuable insights into the period.

Quick quotes

The book's title, A Distant Mirror, suggests the mirroring of 14th century events by more recent ones.

Tuchman does draw some parallels between the 14th century and more recent events.

The focus on England and France is noted, but the engaging narrative makes up for it.

Reddit - AskHistorians · 2017-03-16

enjoyable 4.50

The book is praised for its engaging style and delightful tangents, making it a enjoyable read despite some historical inaccuracies. The reviewer appreciates the author's ability to make history accessible.

The reviewer praises the book for its engaging style and delightful tangents, making it a enjoyable read. They note that the book might have some historical inaccuracies, but the engaging narrative makes up for it. The reviewer appreciates the author's ability to make history accessible and interesting, even for those who might not typically enjoy historical texts. The detailed analysis of the 14th century is seen as a strength, offering valuable insights into the period. The reviewer also mentions that the book's length and detail might be overwhelming for some, but it's a rewarding read for those interested in historical analysis.

Quick quotes

I really enjoy a Distant Mirror because of the engaging style, the delightful tangents.

The book might have some historical inaccuracies, but the engaging narrative makes up for it.

The author's ability to make history accessible and interesting is appreciated.

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