Kings and Castles

Medieval Britain was dominated by its kings, and its kings dominated the land with their castles.

But what were those castles? Were they fortresses? Palaces? Or symbols of their owners power, and of their right to rule. In this stimulating collection of articles and essays, the best-selling historian and broadcaster Marc Morris answers those fundamental questions - and many more.

He explores some of Britain's favourite castles, such as Framlingham, Goodrich and Castle Acre, and the castle-building campaigns of famous kings like William the Conqueror and Edward I. And he addresses issues such as the origins of the cult of St George, the changing role of the medieval English earl and the riddle of the Winchester Round Table. Two articles - one on Edward I's reputation, another on Lanercost Priory - appear here for the first time.

Kings and Castles is a fascinating read for any fan of medieval history or British royalty. Praise for Marc Morris:

'Insightful, compelling and highly readable' - Robyn Young

'Uncommonly good... a true historian' - Daily Telegraph

'Marc Morris is a first-rate historian' - Ian Mortimer

Dr Marc Morris is a bestselling historian and broadcaster. In 2003 he presented the six-part TV series Castle. His other books include a critically acclaimed biography of Edward I, A Great and Terrible King, and a major new history of The Norman Conquest.