History of the Ancient and Medieval World

Marshall Cavendish Corporation

ISBN 10: 0761477896 ISBN 13: 9780761477891

Publisher: Cavendish Square

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This substantially revised set traces the history of humans, beginning with the first primitive civilizations and continuing through the waning days of the Middle Ages. Ten volumes concentrate on specific geographic areas (western Asia, ancient Greece, Europe, Africa, etc.), and most also deal with defined time periods (ancient times, early Middle Ages, the medieval world). Some volumes, such as the one on northern and central Asia, span the entire time sequence. Information is presented in survey chapters that address specific topics (“Egypt’s Old Kingdom,” “The Wars of the Roses,” “The Incas”) and average 12 to 15 pages. The writing is fairly sophisticated but should be accessible to students reading at or above middle-school grade levels. Volume-specific features include compact introductory time lines, glossaries, see also references, and brief (one sentence) biographical descriptions of period notables. Volume 11 consists of a comprehensive set index; a series of thematic indexes (“Arts and Culture,” “Wars and Battles,” etc.); resources for further reading (print and online); an inclusive glossary; an overarching time line; and a list of influential historical figures. The most compelling feature of this resource is the more than 1,000 full-color illustrations. The graphic-intense format offers lavish drawings, more than 50 maps, crisp photos of artifacts and archaeological sites, and reproductions of works of art and architecture. These appear on every page. Satisfying, detailed captions accompany the illustrations. Engaging sidebars enhance the article text and add additional visual interest. This set is intended for students in high school and up. Novice researchers may find the chapter structure a little daunting, but the visually appealing layout will encourage investigation. The set features a chronological and regional approach, which does not directly align with the orientation endorsed by national world history standards and curriculum models, but the multiple-access points and manageably sized chapters help organize the content and make it accessible. Recommended for school and public libraries. Grades 9-12. --Kathleen McBroom

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