Product Information
Now available in paperback, this book describes, for the first time, the nature of the unique ecomic areal system of Gaelic Ireland as it developed and changed between the Early Medieval and Anglo-Norman periods, with special emphasis on the eleventh and twelfth centuries. The origins of this system are explored in their European context, and the components of the system: local kingdom, tricha cet, late-tuath and baile biataig, are explored, described and understood. Special attention is given to the role of kingship in this early society, as well as to the lesser grades within society. A large part of this work of political geography is taken up with the task of listing and describing the area of each cantred/tricha cet by use of a newly developed methodology of boundary study. These are then represented cartographically. This methodology reveals the close relationship between Gaelic and Anglo-Norman areal units in a remarkable pattern of continuity. The various component units of the tricha cet, from the townland upwards, are examined of themselves and in addition shown to have great relevance for the study of such subjects as taxation, corporate kinship landholding, military levy, and even the origins of the rural Irish sense of place. This is the first book to be published on this neglected and important area of study, the areal Irish medieval landscape. It has been described variously by Irish and British reviewers as 'a seminal work', 'a landmark publication', as having 'the potential to be a paradigm shifting work', and as 'essential reading for anyone involved in the study of Early Ireland'. In addition to its relevance to Irish medieval history, the book has been described as providing a new approach 'to land tenure elsewhere, particularly but t exclusively in the British Isles'. [Subject: History, Medieval Studies, Irish Studies]Product Identifiers
PublisherFour Courts Press Ltd
ISBN-101846825571
ISBN-139781846825576
eBay Product ID (ePID)208870574
Product Key Features
SubjectRegional History
LanguageEnglish
TypeTextbook
AuthorPaul Maccotter
Additional Product Features
Date of Publication31/10/2014
Place of PublicationDublin
Spine28mm
GenreRegional History
Country of PublicationIreland
Content NoteIllustrations