This dictionary of some 3,400 medieval terms, phrases, and other common items is geared towards the non‐specialist reader of history and beginning student of medieval history. Unfamiliar words met by those who read medieval historical fiction, medieval mystery, and peruse or have an interest in medieval history, as well as those who follow the current popular interest in movies and dramas based on medieval characters and events, and documentaries on public television related to medieval topics, will find this book indispensable. The author acknowledges that this dictionary is not for historiographers. The definitions are simple and clear, and etymologies have been provided for many of the words. Persons have been kept out as much as possible, although a few are mentioned, such as Bede, Geoffrey of Monmouth, Jean Froissart, and John Wyclif.
The Latin language was the language of government, law, and the church, and hence many Latin terms and phrases are spelled out and their meaning explained here. Similarly, Old and Middle English, Old and Middle French, and Anglo‐Norman were other languages of power, and hence these words sometimes appear in books and movies related to the medieval period. There are many ecclesiastical, legal, popular, and political terms that are explained in this dictionary, providing those who enjoy medieval‐themed movies and books with a handy reference book that explains some of these irregular and dialectical words and phrases. For instance, there are short explanations of topics such as “Gregorian chant” and “Feast of Fools,” along with definitions for “dwale,” mundbyrd,” and “toll and team”, to name just a few. A listing of the kings of Wessex and England to the beginning of the Tudor period, along with a very select bibliography, is provided in the back of the book.
A very useful reference book for the beginning reader and part‐time connoisseur of medieval‐related books and movies.
