Marc Bloch

In *Feudal Society*, Marc Bloch analyzes the medieval world, particularly the development of feudalism from the late ninth century to the emergence of national monarchies in the fourteenth century. The book is divided into two volumes, each examining different aspects of feudal society: the first focusing on the personal bonds between lords and vassals, and the second on the relations based on land and social class. Bloch discusses various aspects of feudalism, including religion, economy, kinship, and the judiciary, and how these elements shaped medieval society. He also explores the evolution of chivalry and the nobility within the feudal hierarchy and their interactions with the rising power of monarchies[1][3][4].

The Historian's Craft is a meditation on the meaning and value of history, written by Marc Bloch in response to his son's question, 'What is the use of history?' The book explores the craft of the historian, discussing what constitutes history, how it should be configured and created, and the importance of a multidisciplinary and human-centered approach. Bloch argues against judgmental history, emphasizing the need for historians to explain and describe rather than evaluate. He also stresses the value of diverse sources, including non-textual evidence like ruins, inscriptions, and monuments. The book was written during Bloch's involvement with the French Resistance and was published posthumously in 1949[1][3][5].

In 'The Strange Defeat,' Marc Bloch provides a searing critique of the military, political, and social factors that led to France's defeat in 1940. The book is divided into sections where Bloch recounts his personal experiences during the battle, critiques the incompetence of the French High Command, and examines the broader social and historical context that contributed to the defeat. Bloch also reflects on the French society and its educational system, highlighting the need for self-examination and reform. Written in 1940, the book was published posthumously in 1946 and is considered a significant work in the literature of redemption and resistance[1][3][5].