New Books in History Charles Watkins, "Trees Ancient and Modern: Woodland Cultures and Conservation" (Reaktion, 2025)
Nov 5, 2025
Charles Watkins, a Professor of rural geography at the University of Nottingham, discusses his book on humanity's intricate relationship with trees. He delves into how trees shape cultural identities, the evolution of ancient woodlands, and the modern threats they face from urban expansion and climate change. Watkins critiques urban tree management, explores the fascinating practice of coppicing, and highlights the symbolic power of iconic trees like the Glastonbury thorn. He also addresses rewilding debates and the need for diverse species in future forestry.
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Leafy View From Nottingham
- Charles Watkins describes looking out at beech trees dropping leaves outside his University of Nottingham office.
- He calls the scene charming despite damp autumn weather, illustrating his personal connection to trees.
Forest Meant Royal Hunting Grounds
- The Norman term 'forest' originally meant land reserved for the king's hunting, not necessarily woodland.
- Sherwood Forest's popular image of endless trees obscures its historical reality and small pockets of ancient oaks.
The Picturesque Saved Old Trees
- 18th-century aesthetics revalued gnarled, old trees as 'picturesque' and sparked tourist interest.
- That aesthetic shift helped protect some ancient oaks that might otherwise have been removed.
