Feudal England: Historical Studies on the Eleventh and Twelfth Centuries

by John Horace Round

"Feudal England: Historical Studies on the Eleventh and Twelfth Centuries" by J. H. Round is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The work delves into the intricacies of feudalism in England, particularly how it emerged and influenced national institutions during an obscure period in history. Round's studies aim to enhance our understanding of facts from the era using records and evidence that complement traditional narratives. The opening of the text serves as a preface, outlining Round's motivations for compiling these historical studies which stem from various original papers he had written on the subject. He expresses a commitment to correct and clarify existing knowledge surrounding the eleventh and twelfth centuries, specifically focusing on the significance of Domesday Book and its insights into land assessment systems. The author asserts that by exploring primary records, he aims to shed new light on the origins of feudalism and the socio-political structures of medieval England, setting the stage for a thorough examination of historical evidence in subsequent chapters.