In today?s world, it seems inconceivable that a war could last for a hundred years, but it happened. And it was driven primarily by four men named Edward, three of whom were kings of England. Thomas B. Costain wrote a marvelous account of the complex conflict we call The Hundred Years War, and brings to life for the reader an era that is surpassingly strange. The book is easily available at modest prices primarily because it was a nationwide bestseller when it was first published. The author is renowned for his historical writing, attention to detail, and accuracy. Like Barbara Tuchman, he can write history, do it honestly and fairly, and still make it as exciting as a Spielberg epic. The book itself was originally published By Doubleday in 1958, and there are a number of other editions available. And a quick read shows why. The characters are real, and larger than life. Evil queens, valorous knights, vast armies, all contend for the control of Europe, and it all happened. The First Edward, Longshanks, conquers Wales, and struggles mightily against the Scots. We meet the great patriot, William Wallace, and Robert, the Bruce. We are stunned at the terrifying death of the weak and flawed Edward II. And then, Young Edward III goes to war with his fellow teenaged king, Phillip of France. Their simple little turf war lasts for a Hundred Years, and alters the map and the History of the world. Costain wrote this book as one of four volumes which tell the story of the Plantagenet family, and he brings to life amazing people that we often know only from myth. It is often said that history is boring. People hate it in school. Well, try this book! This is what history is, and how it should be written! I heartily recommend The Three Edwards for enjoyment, for learning, and for astonishment. The very best part of finishing the 457 pages of text is: There is more! Volumes and volumes of Thomas B. Costain and his histories of the Medieval timeeriod.
Agus
Apr 3, 2007
Spectacular!!!!!
Thomas b. Costain with all his books about the Plantagenet period brings history back to life! This is how we all should learn history.