Description
Book SynopsisThe definitive history of coronations and the Royal Family, from acclaimed writer Roy Strong.'What is the finest sight in the world? A Coronation.What do people talk most about? A Coronation.What is delightful to have passed? A Coronation.'Horace Walpole, 1761As a boy of sixteen, Roy Strong watched the grand procession carrying Queen Elizabeth II to her coronation. The spectacle was considered the greatest public event of the century. But now, so many years later, many people have little notion of what a coronation is and are unaware of the rich resonances of the ritual, or its deep significance in terms of the committal of monarch to people.This book is the first of its kind a comprehensive history that sets each coronation into its political, social, religious and cultural context. The story is one of constant re-invention as the service has had to respond to all the changes in fortune of the monarchy or the country: everything from legitimising usurpers to reconciling a Catholic ri
Trade Review‘Lavishly illustrated throughout, this is, however, much more than a coffee-table book…a beautiful and informative book.’ Sunday Telegraph
‘Strong points out in his survey of the 1,000 year history of the event…the changing significance of monarchy.’ Financial Times
‘A well organised, sympathetic and fascinating account of the central ritual of the English people. This is a serious book with a full scholarly apparatus of notes, bibliography, charts, chronologies and index…this new book fulfils a need…a model of the illustrated history genre…the design and layout are exceptionally clear and elegant…Sir Roy has been admirably served by his publishers.’ Spectator
'A fascinating and compellingly readable study… all the themes are dealt with eloquently and with wit' TLS
‘A magnificent book, meticulously researched, never dull, and beautifully illustrated.’ Country Life
