European Naval and Maritime History, 300-1500 - Hardcover

Lewis, Archibald R; Runyan, Timothy J

3.17

6 ratings by Goodreads

9780253320827: European Naval and Maritime History, 300-1500

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0253320828 ISBN 13: 9780253320827

Publisher: Indiana University Press, 1985

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This first general survey of European naval and maritime history for the period from A.D. 300 to 1500 focuses on Western Europe, including the Baltic, North Sea, and Atlantic traditions, and on the Mediterranean, particularly Byzantine and Moslem naval history. The authors survey a number of interconnected areas: the use of seapower in international and intercultural relations, commerce and trade routes, naval technology and design, military tactics, the physical features of seafaring, and the geography of the sea. They make accessible to the general reader very technical scholarship, and provide numerous maps and illustrations that explain the changes in ship design and construction. The overall result is a powerful historical synthesis whiich gives students, teachers, and general readers a "feel" for the seafaring life and the place of the sea within medieval civilization.

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From the Back Cover:

This volume occupies a special place in maritime history since it represents a first attempt on a popular level to present an overall survey of the rich, diverse, and exciting development of European naval and maritime power during the Middle Ages. Though a number of general surveys exist which deal with the navies and shipping of antiquity, except for the excellent though highly technical recent book by Richard Unger, The Ship in the Medieval Economy 600-1600, such surveys are lacking for the thousand years which represent medieval times.

Review:

" ... is a skillful and succinct synthesis of a vast body of material not previously brought together. As a result a number of potential research avenues are opened up." British Archaeological News " ... a model of compression, clarity, and utility for everyone ... " Medievalia et Humanistica "Based on an impressive array of monographs and major works, fresh translations of contemporary chronicles, and reports from modern underwater archaeological sites, this highly informed account ... provides clear evidence of a fruitful multidisciplinary approach to maritime history." American Historical Review "Lewis and Runyan give us a superb book, quite a brilliant synthesis. They are masters of the subject." History " ... a valuable and welcome work... should constitute a highly useful reference to matters maritime for years to come... the many plates are a delight." Speculum " ... an excellent introduction to maritime history for the general reader as well as some fresh insights for the specialist." Journal of Military History " ... tightly reasoned, packed with information and highly recommended." Sea History

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