The Knight Who Saved England

April 1, 2014

Although the subtitle focuses on the events of 1217, this book is just as much a full biography of William Marshal (1141-1219), a landless knight who served five English kings from Henry II to Henry III, rising to become one of the most powerful, wealthy, and respected noblemen of his era. Military historian Brooks (Walcheren 1944) asserts that most modern accounts of Marshal's life have neglected or denigrated his skills as a military commander; to right this wrong, the current book tells Marshal's story primarily through the lens of his career as a soldier. A central chapter on medieval military practices provides essential background. However, the author's discussion of the significance of the Magna Carta (the 1217 reissue of which Marshal oversaw as regent to William III) is too superficial to be useful. VERDICT Brooks paints a skillful portrait of a fascinating historical figure; although his emphasis is on his subject's military exploits, Marshal's personality and character still shine through. Enthusiasts of medieval and military history will enjoy this work, and lay undergraduates may find it useful as well, but its lack of specific source citations limits its value for more advanced scholars.--Fred Poling, Long Beach City Coll. Lib., CA

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