Terry Jones' Medieval Lives by Terry Jones and Alan Ereira

I'm not really a fan of celebrities using their famous platform to take up new interests and writing books. However, I knew that the comedian Terry Jones had a degree in History from Oxford and I watched the enjoyable television series about Medieval lives. Hoping that the book was as fun as the programmes, I bought it.

In the introduction, Jones shows how the Medieval period is often misconstrued and how little is understood of the time. It is called the Dark Ages for good reason. The book is broken down into chapters covering each of the characters roles in the Medieval world of Britain, with such positions as  King, peasant, philosopher, monk, sheriff, outlaw and damsel - as in the perceptions and rights of women.  Tackling the myths of Medieval folks' ignorance about the world is another positive feature of this book.

It is a period of history where facts are not terribly abundant, but Jones manages to get through using what is known and by using broad categories. His humour lightens the tone alongside illustrations and outlandish photographs of Jones dressed as each character portrayed. I'm not sure if these excellent photographs also appear in the paperback or ebook versions though.

Written by obviously educated men, this is an excellent book in many ways. As a teacher of history, this serves an introduction guide to the period and the fun element will appeal to those not too keen on history and for anyone who likes learning in a non-dry textbook way. Like pupils at school. Absolutely love this book.

Originally published in hardback format to accompany the television series by BBC Books on 5 February  2004.

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