Early Medieval Ireland, 400-1200

By Daibhi O'Cronin
December 1995
Pearson Education
ISBN: 0582015650
400 pages
$57.50 Paper Original

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This impressive survey covers the early history of Ireland from the coming of Christianity to the Norman settlement (400 - 1200 AD). Within a broad political framework it explores the nature of Irish society, the spiritual and secular roles of the Church and the extraordinary flowering of Irish culture in the period. Other major themes are Ireland's relations with Britain and continental Europe, and Vikings and their influence, the beginnings of Irish feudalism, and the impact of the Viking and Norman invaders. Splendid in sweep and lively in detail, it launches the new Longman History of Ireland in fine style.

Contents
List of maps. Abbreviations. Preface. Editorial Foreword. Framework of events. Introduction. 1. The beginnings of Irish history. 2. Kingdoms and politics, A.D. 400 - 800. 3. Kings and kingship. 4. Land, settlement, and economy. 5. Law, family, and community. 6. The consolidation of the Church. 7. The first Christian schools. 8. The Golden Age 9. The Viking Age. 10. Ireland A.D. 1014 - 1200. Glossary. Maps. Guide to further reading. Bibliography. Index

Features
" Charts the evolution of Irish society and demonstrates how it was comparable in sophistication with any in early medieval Europe. " Series of thematic chapters reveal the social, political, religious and legal framework of Ireland in this period - provides a fully rounded picture. " Written in a vivid and approachable style that makes it both engaging and highly accessible. " Aids for study include maps to provide visual tool to further understanding and a Framework of Events provides students with an easy-to-follow chronological guide.

Reviews
'The greatest strength of what assuredly will remain a standard treatment of early Ireland for years to come is that its ten chapters succeed in making the history of Ireland come alive...This is a fine, spirited book, and, what is more, a good read.' History (US) 'Makes the whole subject accessible for the first time... for this, all who wish to approach the earliest Irish history are in O'Croinin's debt.' Times Literary Supplement

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