The Hundred Years War Volume 1: Trial by Battle by Jonathan Sumption

The Hundred Years War Volume 1: Trial by Battle by Jonathan Sumption reading through this I couldn't help being reminded of Shelby Foote's massive three volume history of the American Civil War. Both are narratives without much analysis, they both try to avoid historical debates and they both are a pleasure to read. Sumption views the hundred years war as being essentially a civil war inside France. The reasons for the war are described in excruciating detail. Most interesting was the discussion of how all sides attempted to fund the war. Military history's don't usually touch upon this. There's also coverage not only of the interactions between the French and the English but also the Papacy and holy Roman Emperor. The military operations are dealt with in a slightly abbreviated manner. I would've enjoyed more.

Considering this was published in 1989 and the second volume was published at the turn of the century and it's been estimated that we might be looking at six volumes in total the question has to be asked as to whether it will be completed. Even if it's not this is an excellent start and if you're willing to invest the time well worth it.

Highly recommended!