The maps are grouped into three chronological sections-early, central, and late Middle A g e s - within which are separate groupings for politics, religion, culture, and government / economy / society. The aim, carried out very successfully, is to ensure clear and uncluttered maps which achieve the right balance between detail and legibUity. Their atlas consists of 140 black and white maps, each accompanied by a short essay. A n atlas of medieval Europe which combines clarity of presentation with richness of information has long been a desideratum, and Angus Mackay (University of Edinburgh) and David Ditchburn (University of Aberdeen) have n o w managed to 234 Reviews assemble such a volume, in collaboration with 35 expert contributors. Presenting this in visual form, particularly through maps, is one of the most effective ways of teaching. Despite the general famiUarity of European geography, there is a huge amount of unfamiUar detaU-about places, people, and events-to be assimUated. For any serious study of medieval European history and culture, an atias is essential. Jack Department of History University of Sydney Mackay, Angus, with David Ditchburn, ed., Atlas of Medieval Europe, London and N e w York, Routledge, 1997 cloth pp. Presumably for this reason, there is an absence offootnoteswhich wiU irritate the academic. Nevertheless, the story is well and clearly told in a style designed not only for the academic but for the wider educated audience. His attempts to make the acount a microcosmic Ulustration of the wider scene are not particularly convincing. Some of the generaUsations about farruly and poUtics which Lee has borrowed to provide his story with a suitable background and context are doubtful and jarring. W h o, perhaps, can blame her? This is a narrative history. She Uved to be an autocratic and intransigent old lady, jealous of her independence and authority, unwiUing to hand over the reins of power to anyone. Nevertheless, she remained most of her Ufe in London and frequently at court.
Lee's description of Anna's life as a virtuous and neglected wife, with Uttle interest in poUtics at a dissolute court full of self-interested intrigue, is chilling. Reviews 233 survive the hazards of these poUtical tides and shoals, the Buccleuch women, whist commended for their wit and courage, were tough, combative, crafty and cold, caring, it would seem, Uttle for anyone, even their children, except as potential pawns in the great game. In lieu of an abstract, here is a brief excerpt of the content:
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