This book is aimed at students coming to the study of western European medieval history for the first time, and also graduate students on interdisciplinary medieval studies programmes. It examines the place of the Middle Ages in modern popular culture, exploring the roots of the stereotypes that appear in films, on television and in the press, and asking why they remain so persistent. The book also asks whether 'medieval' is indeed a useful category in terms of historical periodization. It investigates some of the particular challenges posed by medieval sources and the ways in which they have survived. And it concludes with an exploration of the relevance of medieval history in today's world.

'This book is erudite, thoughtful, sometimes provocative, sometimes inspiring, always stimulating, and it is informed by a profound understanding of both the middle ages and the discipline of history. Marcus Bull has a real feeling for his subject and for the way that those embarking on a study of the middle ages might receive it. And a further bonus is that it is written well. Marcus Bull draws the reader along with a style that is compellingly page-turning...This book is both informative and useful and it ought to be required reading for all medievalists, for all students embarking on a study of the middle ages.' - Stephen Church, Reviews in History

Autorentext
MARCUS BULL is Senior Lecturer in Medieval History in the University of Bristol. His previous publications include Knightly Piety and the Lay Response the First Crusade (1993) and The Miracles of Rocamadour: Analysis and Translation (1999). He plays an active role in Bristol's interdisciplinary Centre for Medieval Studies.

Inhalt
Introduction: What is 'Thinking Medieval'? Popular Images of the Middle Ages What are the 'Middle Ages'? The Evidence for Medieval History Is Medieval History Relevant? Conclusion Suggested Reading