The English: A Social History, 1066-1945, by Christopher Hibbert [Hardcover]

Description

The English: A Social History, 1066-1945, by Christopher Hibbert [Hardcover] published in 1987.

• Author: Christopher Hibbert
• Publisher: Book Club Associates
• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Grafton; Reprint edition (26 Mar. 1987)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Hardcover ‏ : ‎ 795 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0246121815
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0246121813

Christopher Hibbert’s book “The English: A Social History, 1066-1945” is a comprehensive and detailed account of the development of English society over a period of almost 800 years. The book, first published in 1987 and reissued in hardcover format, covers a wide range of topics, including politics, religion, economics, education, and culture.

Hibbert begins his narrative with the Norman Conquest of 1066, which marked the beginning of a period of great change and upheaval in English society. He describes the ways in which the Normans imposed their own social and cultural values on the English, and how this led to a gradual blending of the two cultures over time. He then goes on to chart the various social and economic developments that occurred over the following centuries, from the rise of the merchant class in the Middle Ages to the emergence of a modern industrial society in the 19th century.

One of the book’s strengths is its attention to detail. Hibbert has clearly done his research, and he provides a wealth of information and anecdotal evidence to support his arguments. He draws on a wide range of sources, including diaries, letters, official documents, and literary works, to paint a rich and nuanced picture of English society at different points in its history.

Another strength of the book is its readability. Despite its length and depth, “The English” is a highly accessible and engaging read. Hibbert writes with clarity and precision, and he has a knack for bringing historical events and figures to life. He also has a keen eye for the telling detail, and he is able to use small, everyday observations to illuminate broader social and cultural trends.

Perhaps the most interesting aspect of the book is its focus on the social aspects of English history. While many historical accounts tend to focus on politics and wars, Hibbert is more interested in the day-to-day lives of ordinary people. He provides detailed descriptions of the homes, diets, and working conditions of different social groups, and he explores the ways in which these groups interacted with each other over time. He is particularly interested in the development of social mobility, and he describes how the rise of the middle class in the 18th and 19th centuries challenged traditional notions of class and hierarchy.

Despite its many strengths, “The English” is not without its weaknesses. Some readers may find its focus on the social aspects of English history to be overly narrow, and its treatment of political and military events may be too brief or superficial for some tastes. Additionally, some readers may find Hibbert’s writing style to be somewhat dry or academic at times.

Overall, however, “The English: A Social History, 1066-1945” is a valuable and informative work of history that will be of interest to anyone who wants to gain a deeper understanding of English society and culture. Hibbert’s attention to detail, engaging writing style, and focus on the lives of ordinary people make this book a compelling and rewarding read, and it is sure to appeal to a wide range of readers.