Taking medieval times as between the tenth and fifteenth century, the book attempts to show the transition from the Dark Ages to Modern England in villages and towns up and down the country. It highlights the feudal system which would transform into international trade, told through first-hand accounts and stories. Some are naturally somewhat bawdy and reflect the age and the general approach to religion of the working people, with superstition woven into the fabric of their beliefs.
With much of medieval history told through the eyes of monarchs and wars, this book is an attempt to show life in the towns and countryside where the real history should be recorded. The author is an academic and an Anglican Lay Minister, and his approach to the influence of Catholicism may be tainted by his view of history in general. Of its kind, it makes for a refreshing read on Medieval history.