Historical Dictionary of the Elizabethan World: Britain, Ireland, Europe, and America

(Hardback)

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Description

One period of British history that generates much interest is the reign of Elizabeth I, from 1558 to 1603. The individuals and events of that era continue to be popular topics for contemporary literature and film, and Elizabethan drama, poetry and music are still studied by students, scholars and the general public. This reference provides definitions and descriptions of people, events, institutions, ideas and terminology relating in some significant way to the Elizabethan period. It also takes a broad trans-Atlantic approach to the period by including relevant individuals and terms from Irish, Scottish, Welsh, American and Western European history. The dictionary contains more than 500 entries covering such diverse subjects as courtiers, palaces, treaties, rebellions, women, coinage, science and religion. Entries are organized in an A-to-Z format, each containing extensive cross-references and recommendations for further reading. The text is augmented by: a detailed chronology; maps of important regions; historic paintings, prints, maps and drawings; and lists and tables showing such information as units of currency, holidays and sessions of parliament. Appendices provide: 11 genealogical charts; 16th century monarchs, governors of Ireland, popes and archbishops of Canterbury and York; selected Tudor historical fiction; selected films and videos with Tudor characters and settings; selected recordings of Tudor music; selected Tudor Web sites; and bibliographical references.

Reviews

Readers will find not only all the standard entries, but also more obscure information. . . . The general bibliography and index are extensive . . . valuable acquisition for all libraries with collections in early modern history. . . . [R]ecommended for all levels. * Choice *
[A]n impressive work of comprehensive scholarship and an essential, core title for any personal, academic, or public library Elizabethan studies reference collection. . . . [H]ighly recommended. * Midwest Book Review *
[A]ttractive format and user-friendly organization. . . . This is an appropriate acquisition for all libraries from the secondary level on up. * ARBA *
A specialized encyclopedia that should find a place in many general collections because of the pains that have been taken to present this fascinating era in a readable and appealing way. * Booklist *
[M]erits allow it to stand on its own. . . . A wealth of easy-to-use information. * School Library Journal *
This volume is a useful resource for those who need concise descriptions and definitions of people, events, ideas, and terms of the Elizabethan period. . . . Easy-to-read charts. . . . [T]his is a well-organized, comprehensive, and accurate reference source. * Book Report *
A handy, quick-reference tool. * Pennsylvania School Librarian's Association *

Author Bio

John A. Wagner has taught courses in British and Tudor history at Arizona State University and in American and early modern European history at Phoenix College. He is the author of The Devon Gentleman: A Life of Sir Peter Carew (1998) and a contributor to the forthcoming Historical Dictionary of Later Medieval England. Wagner holds a BA from the University of Wisconsin, Oshkosh and an MA and a PhD from Arizona State University.