The Penguin Historical Atlas of the Medieval World

by Caroline Hull and Andrew Jotischky

The Penguin Historical Atlas of the Medieval World traces the development of peoples, cultures, and faiths between the coming of the barbarian invasions in the fourth century and the first voyages to the New World in the sixteenth. This colorful atlas illustrates the sweeping changes from the fall of the Roman Empire to the birth of Islam, the rise of Christianity, and the role of Judaism across Europe. Packed with vivid maps and photographs, this atlas is a perfect guide to Europe and its neighbors in the Middle Ages.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0141014490
• ISBN13: 9780141014494
• Release Date: October 2005
• Publisher: Penguin Books
• Length: 144 Pages
• Weight: 0.80 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.3" x 7.1" x 9.7"
• Age Range: 18 years and up
• Grade Range: Postsecondary and higher

Customer Reviews

Fast and handy

I bought this atlas not as a study aid, but for general reading. Indeed it makes for a good review of medieval history. The atlas is as complete as it can be, given that it is only 144 pages. It is mostly centered around medieval Europe, and more on Latin Europe - the west- that on the greek world. The arab world, and to a lesser degree the far east, are documented as well, mostly in function of their interaction with Europe. Of course the denomination "medieval" in itself applies mostly to the history of western Europe. A useful synoptic chronological table precedes the maps and compares the timelines of latin Europe, greek Europe, middle east and far east. Maps are well done and organized in chapters preceded by insightful yet slim introductions. I found it very suitable to my needs: it provides an entertaining read and a good review of the period.

Medieval History

This Atlas is good for the study of the medieval world. But I consider this atlas need more maps. For example, the battle for Scotland to obtain the independence; also, the mongol empire in times of Genghis Khan and Kubblai Khan.

Good Study Aid

I have been reading through the Story of Civilization by Will Durant and though these volumes do have maps, they are not always easy to read and are somewhat limited in scope. I can say that my understanding of history and geography has been greatly helped and enriched by these atlas' AND the scholarship present in the summations of geography, people, culture and chronologically specific movements in medieval times. An excellent resource for the price. Note: These atlas' are much more rewarding when read along side a history book like Will Durant, Toynbee, Herodotus etc. as opposed to all on their own.