Synopses & Reviews
In a number of related case-studies, this book traces the social political, and cultural factors making for conformity and obedience, and those promoting dissidence and revolt in sixteenth- and early seventeenth-century England. The essays explore the significance of the concept of honour in forming the mentality of the ruling elites, the role of region, humanism, and law in promoting social and political solidarity, and the influences at work in the changing styles of political action as illustrated by the careers of four magnates.
Review
"Mervyn James has written some of the most sensitive interpretations of Tudor history to appear in the past twenty years...Publication of these essays now in a handsome volume is thus extremely welcome...they include a new piece on the Earl of Essex's revolt of 1601, and a retrospective consideration of his own work by the author." Times Literary Supplement
Review
"...a rich collection of essays." Albion
Synopsis
The social, political and cultural factors determining conformity and obedience as well as dissidence and revolt are traced in sixteenth and early seventeenth century England.
Table of Contents
Preface; Introduction; 1. Ritual, drama and social body in the late madieval English town; 2. A Tudor magnate and the Tudor state: Henry, fifth Earl of Northumberland; 3. Change and continuity in the Tudor north: Thomas, first Lord Wharton; 4. The first Earl of Cumberland (1493-1542) and the decline of northern feudalism; 5. Two Tudor funerals; 6. Obedience and dissent in Henrician England: the Lincolnshire rebellion, 1536; 7. The concept of order and the Northern Rising, 1569; 8. English politics and the concept of honour, 1485-1642; 9. At a crossroads of the political culture: the Essex revolt, 1601; Index.