80,000+ Books in-stock in NZ 📚

Auckland Bookstore open on Saturday & Sunday 🎉

The Castle

A History
3.68 goodreads logo

Ratings/reviews counts are updated frequently.

Check link for latest rating.
( 40 ratings, 10 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The Castle by John Goodall delves into the evolving history and architecture of castles from their origins in the Norman conquest to the majestic castles of the 17th century. The book richly illustrates how these fortresses served not just as military strongholds, but also as residences and symbols of power, reflecting broader social changes and innovations in defence systems over the centuries. Combining historical analysis with visual storytelling, it offers a comprehensive insight into the role of castles in shaping history.
Read More
Format: Hardback
$4799
AVAILABLE WITH SUPPLIER Ships from our Auckland warehouse within 3-4 weeks

Found a better price? Request a price match

Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this fascinating dive into English history if you're captivated by medieval architecture and historical fortifications. The author takes you through the evolution of castles over the centuries, detailing their construction and social significance. Ideal for history enthusiasts and those keen on exploring the military and cultural backdrop of medieval England.

Book Hero thinking about your next read

A vibrant history of the castle in England, from the early Middle Ages to the present day

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

A vibrant history of the castle in Britain, from the early Middle Ages to the present day

The castle has long had a pivotal place in British life, associated with lordship, landholding, and military might, and today it remains a powerful symbol of history. But castles have never been merely impressive fortresses—they were hubs of life, activity, and imagination.

John Goodall weaves together the history of the British castle across the span of a millennium, from the eleventh to the twenty-first century, through the voices of those who witnessed it. Drawing on chronicles, poems, letters, and novels, including the work of figures like Gawain Poet, Walter Scott, Evelyn Waugh, and P. G. Wodehouse, Goodall explores the importance of the castle in our culture and society.

From the medieval period to Civil War engagements, right up to modern manifestations in Harry Potter, Goodall reveals that the castle has always been put to different uses, and to this day continues to serve as a source of inspiration.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

John Goodall's The Castle has been praised for its engaging and insightful exploration of the historical and cultural significance of castles. Reviews highlight the book's focus on both real and fictional castles, illuminating their roles from the medieval period to modern representations. Goodall's expert yet accessible writing draws on various sources, making it a captivating and comprehensive read for those interested in Britain's architectural and societal history.

Book Hero reading reviews

Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780300251906

Publisher: Yale University Press

Format: Hardback

Date Published: 22 March 2022

Country: United States

Imprint: Yale University Press

Illustration: 75 b-w and color illus.

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Width: 140.0mm

Height: 210.0mm

Weight: 250g

Pages: 400

About the Author

John Goodall is the architectural editor of Country Life magazine. He is the author of The English Castle, Parish Church Treasures, God‘s House at Ewelme, and English House Style.

More from History & Military

View all

Why buy from us?

Book Hero is not a chain store or big box retailer. We're an independent 100% NZ-owned business on a mission to help more Kiwis rediscover a love of books and reading!

Service & Delivery

Service & Delivery

Our warehouse in Auckland holds over 80,000 books, toys, board games and puzzles in-stock so you're not waiting for your order to arrive from overseas.

Auckland Bookstore

Auckland Bookstore

We're primarily an online store, but for your convenience you can pick up your order for free from our bookstore, which is right next door to our warehouse in Hobsonville.

Our Gifting Service

Our Gifting Service

Books make wonderful thoughtful gifts and we're here to help with gift-wrapping and cards. We can even send your gift directly to your loved one.