#7270
Mentioned in 7 episodes

A Distant Mirror

The Calamitous 14th Century
Book • 1600
In this book, Barbara W. Tuchman delves into the complexities of the 14th century, a period characterized by the juxtaposition of a glittering age of crusades, cathedrals, and chivalry with a world plunged into chaos and spiritual agony.

Tuchman examines the great rhythms of history as well as the details of domestic life, including childhood, marriage, and the impact of money, taxes, and war on various social classes.

She re-creates the lives of diverse figures such as cardinals, scholars, grocers, saints, and knights, providing a comprehensive and vivid portrait of medieval Europe.

The book also draws parallels between the calamities of the 14th century and those of the 20th century, particularly the devastating effects of the plague and World War I.

Mentioned by

Mentioned in 7 episodes

Mentioned by Morgan Housel while discussing the Black Death and the Scots' reaction to it.
62 snips
A Few Short Stories
Mentioned by Helen Carr , referring to a book that contributed to the 14th century's negative reputation.
45 snips
Plague, famine and chivalry: a human history of the 14th century
Mentioned by Rudyard Lynch as the best book on the Hundred Years' War.
41 snips
Explaining the Creation of France
Mentioned by Dominic Sandbrook as one of his favorite books when he was 12 years old.
32 snips
154. The Most Disastrous Party in History
Mentioned by Tom Hanks as an author whose books he has tried to read but couldn't finish.
Tom Hanks
Mentioned by Tom Holland as a book offering a different perspective on the Hundred Years' War, contrasting with Sir Nigel.
318: Hundred Years' War: A Game of Thrones (Part 1)
Mentioned by Tom Holland when describing the arrival of the Black Death in Messina.
320: Hundred Years' War: The Black Prince (Part 3)
Recommended by Zeke Faux as a great book that makes history seem weird.
The Growing Scandal of $TRUMP
Mentioned by Sophie Strand as a historical account of the 14th century, providing insights into societal breakdown following the Black Plague.
Bibliomancy with Author Sophie Strand

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