A Distant Mirror: The Calamitous 14th Century

Excellent book and service

Excellent book by an accomplished historian that describes and era through the lives of people that lived it. Although not strictly political, Tuchman was able to make sense of the end of an era and at the same time showing how human action evolves over time from what went before. Receipt of the book was prompt and the copy received in excellent condition.

Good Value

Book arrived in reasonably in good shape, although the pages were somewhat yellowed. The book itself, though, is excellent, especially for history buffs.

An excellent book that is full of detail and facts about the 14th century. Barbara Tuchman used numerous sources and tried to locate as many first hand accounts that still exist. It covers the black plague which first appeared during that time and the downfall of the knights and the crusades. Most of the history centers on France, which was the cultural and leading power at that time, and the troubles caused in the "civilized" world when two different men were elected Pope. It was fascinating to read how sophisticated the people were back then, as it is also called the dark ages. I would recommend this book to any history buff.