Why read Gentry Culture in Late Medieval England?

Book cover of Gentry Culture in Late Medieval England

Book description

Essays in this fascinating and important collection examine the lifestyles and attitudes of the gentry in late medieval England. They consider the emergence of the gentry as a group distinct from the nobility, and explore the various available routes to gentility. Through surveys of the gentry's military background, administrative and…

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European history

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Why read it?

1 author picked Gentry Culture in Late Medieval England as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

ffiona Perigrinor

Author

I found this study of gentry culture, with essays on political influence, education, social networks, religious activities, and the display of ‘gentility,’ a useful guide to a social class that was evolving in the period of my research. It also helped me understand why Dame Alice was so successful in running her own household and did not remarry – she was secure in the knowledge that she could exercise power and influence as an independent woman. Many of the other books I read about medieval households focused on the aristocracy, their sumptuous lifestyles, lavish entertainment, ostentatious festivities, opulent recreations, and…

From ffiona's list on The best books about medieval life and widows who prefer independence to remarriage.