Used : Eleanor of Aquitaine: A Life (Ballantine Reader's Circle)

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.Eleanor of Aquitaine: A Life (Ballantine Reader's Circle)

by: Alison Weir

2001-04
Alison Weir has written a powerful social history of Eleanor's times. "Eleanor of Aquitaine: A Life" offers an encyclopedic marshaling of facts. Few authors would think to include, say, Adelard of Bath, the "first English scientist." Adelard had traveled in the Arab world, introduced the astrolabe to England (ring-sized versions still sell as "Eleanor's ring"), and tutored young Henry a decade before the lad became King Henry II. Weir adds much value by introducing Adelard and walk-on players like him. The bit parts are present, and they fit.

Eleanor comes through as her own creature, able to command her fate in an adverse world, a rare quality in a woman of the twelfth century. Weir is clearly attracted to the many facets of Eleanor's ... Read More:
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Used Price: £4.00