Der ferne Spiegel

A modern classic of historiography, bestselling author Barbara Tuchman created a modern classic with "A Distant Mirror." With a keen and knowledgeable eye for grand political history and a fine sense for everyday life and mentalities, she captures the vibrant life of the dramatic 14th century, marking the twilight of the Middle Ages. At the center of Barbara Tuchman's fascinating portrayal of the 14th century is the life story of the French nobleman Enguerrand de Coucy VII. At the tender age of 15, Coucy first rides into battle as a knight, experiences the Hundred Years' War up close, and is ultimately taken hostage by the English king. Throughout his life, Coucy witnesses dramatic, even seemingly apocalyptic events: the plague ravages Europe, and religious...