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The Civilization of the Middle Ages

By: Norman F. Cantor
Narrated by: Frederick Davidson
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Summary

In 1963, Norman F. Cantor published his breakthrough narrative history of the Middle Ages. Here is a significant revision, update, and expansion of that work.

The Civilization of the Middle Ages incorporates current research, recent trends in interpretation, and novel perspectives, especially on the foundations of the Middle Ages and the Later Middle Ages of the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries. A sharper focus on social history, Jewish history, women’s roles in society, and popular religion and heresy distinguish the book. While the first and last sections of the book are almost entirely new and many additions have been incorporated in the intervening sections, Cantor has retained the powerful narrative flow that made earlier editions so accessible.

©1963 1993 by Norman F. Cantor (P)1994 Blackstone Audio, Inc.
  • Unabridged Audiobook
  • Categories: History

Critic reviews

“No better explanation of medievalism is available to the general reader.” ( Booklist)

What listeners say about The Civilization of the Middle Ages

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  • Overall
    2 out of 5 stars
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    3 out of 5 stars

Only audible book that made me want to self harm

What could have made this a 4 or 5-star listening experience for you?

There is a good chance that this is an excellent book unfortunately the narration is so painful I will never know.

Would you recommend The Civilization of the Middle Ages to your friends? Why or why not?

No - because that would be cruel.

How could the performance have been better?

The performance would have been better by getting anyone who didn't sound like Kenneth Williams to read it.

You didn’t love this book--but did it have any redeeming qualities?

See above.

Any additional comments?

I'm going to get my money back right now!

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5 people found this helpful

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    3 out of 5 stars
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    4 out of 5 stars

Erudite and well researched

Would you say that listening to this book was time well-spent? Why or why not?

An interesting and broad book that leaves very little out. In fact the book enters into all the minute details that it possibily could, which is why it is so very long. It is nevertheless very interesting.

How could the performance have been better?

It is somewhat spoiled by the reader, who seems to want to appear learned but instead has infuriating inflexions in his speech.

Do you think The Civilization of the Middle Ages needs a follow-up book? Why or why not?

Cannot think what more could be added, but it might be an idea to get someone else to perform the reading of this book.

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4 people found this helpful

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    4 out of 5 stars
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    4 out of 5 stars

Fascinating

What did you like most about The Civilization of the Middle Ages?

The portrayal of society and thought in the period

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

No it is far too rich to be taken in one go

Any additional comments?

The narration is very plummy but after a little while his clarity and diction adds to the majesty of the book.
Thoroughly recommended to anyone interested in exploring the culture of the period and how it evolved

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