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Crown & Sceptre: A New History of the British Monarchy, from William the Conqueror to Elizabeth II
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68
/100
I Index Overall Rating
Readers
86/100Critics
50/100Scholars
Author:
Tracy Borman
Publisher:
Atlantic Monthly Press
Date:
February 22, 2022
Since William the Conqueror, duke of Normandy, crossed the English Channel in 1066 to defeat King Harold II and unite England's various kingdoms, 41 kings and queens have sat on Britain's throne. Borman reveals the characters and personalities who have ruled and, since the Restoration of the monarchy in 1660, more ceremonially reigned.
What The Reviewers Say
Given its extensive timeframe and diverse cast of characters, Crown & Sceptre could easily have become little more than a potted history of Britain from 1066 to the present. But while Ms. Borman offers deft and thoughtful assessments of every reign, the chronological approach is enriched by details that help to humanize her subjects.
Borman offers brisk descriptions of the circumstances each monarch met in assuming the crown and nimbly sketches his or her character and talents.
While [Borman] doesn’t ignore the institution’s darker aspects, she’s nevertheless in thrall to its 'other-worldliness' — its magic and mystery.
... entertaining.
