Description
Discover the influential work 'No historie so meete' that delves into the intricate relationship between history and the Elizabethan and early Stuart gentry. Published by Manchester University Press in 2012, this captivating book explores how the gentry's fascination with their own past fostered a vibrant antiquarian culture in England. Through a rich examination of family, town, and county histories, this essential read highlights the profound impact of these narratives on the evolution of local history, which resonates even into the twentieth century. The author meticulously eschews a narrow historiographical perspective, instead analyzing a diverse array of manuscript and published works, including pedigree rolls, antiquarian notebooks, heraldic displays, and maps. Each section provides valuable insights into the development of local history in England from its medieval beginnings to 1660, giving readers a comprehensive understanding of how the past is intertwined with present identities. Furthermore, the book outlines practical aspects of local historical research, detailing the national educational frameworks and regional networks of historians. It thoroughly investigates the accessibility to historical sources controlled by gentry. The final chapters explore genealogy, didacticism, and the physical representations of history. 'No historie so meete' is not just a scholarly text; it is a crucial guide for anyone interested in local historical research, genealogy, and the intricate tapestry of England's past.