Dover Castle [Red Guide]
By: Steven Brindle
Dover Castle’s location, commanding the shortest sea crossing between England and the Continent, has given it immense strategic importance. The chalk of Castle Hill has been shaped and reshaped over the centuries into massive earthworks, ditches and mounds. Imposing walls and towers have been raised and networks of tunnels built beneath them. Henry II began the building of the present castle in the 1180s, and over the next 800 years its buildings and defences were adapted to meet the changing demands of weapons and warfare.This guidebook, packed with historic images, reconstructions and plans, provides a full tour of this iconic castle and relates its long and eventful history.
AI Overview
"Dover Castle" by Steven Brindle is a guidebook published as part of the English Heritage Red Guides series. Here is a comprehensive overview of the book:
Key Themes
- Historical Significance: The book focuses on the historical significance of Dover Castle, which has played a crucial role in British history, particularly in terms of defense and strategic importance.
- Architectural Details: It provides detailed descriptions and insights into the castle's architecture, including its various structures and historical renovations.
- Cultural Context: The guide explores the cultural context in which the castle was built and its evolution over time, highlighting its role in different eras of British history.
Plot Summary
The book does not have a traditional plot in the sense of a narrative story. Instead, it is structured as a guidebook that provides information about Dover Castle. It includes:
- History: A detailed account of the castle's history, from its initial construction to its current state.
- Features: Descriptions of the castle's various features, including its walls, towers, and other architectural elements.
- Visitor Information: Practical information for visitors, including opening times, guided tours, and other useful details.
Critical Reception
While there is no extensive critical reception available for this specific book, the English Heritage Red Guides series is generally well-regarded for its comprehensive and authoritative coverage of historical sites. The series is known for its high-quality content and detailed information, which makes it a valuable resource for both historians and casual visitors.
Edition Details
- Publication Date: The book was first published on March 15, 2012.
- Format: It is available in paperback format.
- ISBN: The ISBN for the book is 9781848020962.
- Condition: Copies of the book can be found in various conditions, including good and very good, depending on the seller.
Availability
The book is widely available through various online retailers such as AbeBooks, ThriftBooks, and World of Books GB.