God's Fury, England's Fire by Michael Braddick

God's Fury, England's Fire delves into the devastating civil wars of 17th-century England, a period marked by unimaginable violence and trauma. The book captures the widespread belief that these conflicts were a divine punishment, with both sides claiming God's support. Michael Braddick provides a vivid portrayal of life during this tumultuous era, examining the complex motivations and radical outcomes that led to the execution of Charles I and the declaration of a republic. The narrative also highlights the significant influence of events in Scotland, Ireland, and Europe on the English conflict, offering a comprehensive understanding of this pivotal historical period./n/nThis meticulously researched book not only recounts the events but also explores the enduring impact of these wars on England. It offers insights into the political and religious divisions that fueled the violence, making it clear why these events still resonate centuries later. Braddick's work is a compelling blend of historical analysis and narrative, providing readers with a deeper appreciation of the forces that shaped modern England.

Reviews

Reddit - Recommended Books · 2020-01-01

excellent 4.50

The book is praised for its recent and excellent synthesis of previous works on the English Civil War. It is recommended for its comprehensive and accessible approach to the subject.

In a Reddit discussion, 'God's Fury, England's Fire' is highly recommended for its recent and excellent synthesis of previous works on the English Civil War. The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to provide a comprehensive and accessible overview of the period, making it a valuable resource for both casual readers and history enthusiasts. They highlight the book's vivid and enduring sense of what it was like to live through the events of the Civil War, noting that it offers a unique perspective that sets it apart from other historical accounts. The reviewer's enthusiasm for the book suggests it is a must-read for anyone interested in this pivotal moment in English history.

Quick quotes

I'd go with 'God's Fury, England's Fire' by Michael Braddick. Advantages - it is very recent and an excellent synthesis of previous works on the English Civil War.

Michael Braddick's remarkable book gives the reader a vivid and enduring sense both of what it was like to live through events of uncontrollable violence and radical change.

This masterly new history illuminates what it was like to live through a time of terrifying violence, religious fervour and radical politics.

The Guardian · Guardian Staff · 2009-02-06

masterly 4.00

The book provides a fresh perspective on the English Civil War, highlighting its impact on everyday life. It suggests that each generation interprets history in a way that reflects its own times.

The Guardian's review of 'God's Fury, England's Fire' praises Michael Braddick's ability to bring the English Civil War to life, focusing on the everyday experiences of people during that tumultuous period. They note that Braddick's work is not just a retelling of historical events but a deep dive into the social and political dynamics that shaped the war. The reviewer suggests that each generation gets the history it deserves, implying that Braddick's account resonates with contemporary readers because it addresses themes of violence, religious fervour, and political radicalism that are still relevant today. Overall, the book is seen as a masterful and illuminating exploration of a pivotal moment in English history.

Quick quotes

Perhaps each generation gets the history of the English civil war it deserves.

This masterly new history illuminates what it was like to live through a time of terrifying violence, religious fervour and radical politics.

Michael Braddick's remarkable book gives the reader a vivid and enduring sense both of what it was like to live through events of uncontrollable violence and radical change.

The Telegraph · Allan Massie · 2008-04-05

valuable 4.25

The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to make the Civil War relatable to modern readers. They note that the book provides a unique perspective on the period, highlighting the personal and political struggles of the time.

Allan Massie's review in The Telegraph highlights 'God's Fury, England's Fire' as a book that makes the Civil War relatable to modern readers. Massie appreciates Braddick's ability to bring the period to life, focusing on the personal and political struggles that defined the era. The reviewer suggests that the book offers a unique perspective on the Civil War, one that resonates with contemporary readers. They note that Braddick's account is not just a retelling of historical events but a deep exploration of the social and political dynamics that shaped the war. Overall, the book is seen as a valuable and insightful contribution to the literature on the English Civil War.

Quick quotes

We are all, at some stage in life, either Cavaliers or Roundheads, and Michael Braddick's new history of the English Civil War makes this period of our history very relatable.

Michael Braddick's remarkable book gives the reader a vivid and enduring sense both of what it was like to live through events of uncontrollable violence and radical change.

This masterly new history illuminates what it was like to live through a time of terrifying violence, religious fervour and radical politics.

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