Powers and Thrones: a new history of the Middle Ages

In 640 plus pages Dan Jones sets out to explore the broad themes of 1,000 years of largely European history after the sacking of Rome in AD410. 

The story in Powers and Thrones is told in four time periods: 410 - 750 focussing on the Romans, Barbarians, Byzantines and Arabs; 750 - 1215 which tells of kingdom of the Franks, including the empire of Charlemagne, plus the role of Monks, Knights and Crusaders in Medieaval life; 1215 - 1347 exploring the life of the Mongols as well as the rise of Merchants, Scholars and Builders; and 1348 - 1527 described as a time of revolution under the headings of Survivors, Renewers, Navigators and Protestants.

In general the book looks at the super powers after the fall of Rome and how the changing global geopolitics influenced European life and society. It investigates the reshaping of economics and political power and the changes in the ways people thought of the world around them.

At the end of the book can be found detailed notes, a bibliography, and index. maps and coloured illustrations can be found in the book.

Other books by Dan Jones mentioned in this blog include Crusaders: the epic history of the wars for the Holy Lands and Summer of Blood: the Peasants Revolt of 1381.