Review by Choice Review
This readable study of Bretons presents a cogent, carefully argued vision of national identity as a long-term process marked by profound changes. The authors, an archaeologist and a medievalist, skillfully synthesize evidence from archaeology, linguistics, medieval chronicles, archives, architecture, and folklore. From these, they chart the inhabitants and institutions of Brittany from neolithic times to 1491 and the marriage of Duchess Anne of Brittany with Charles VIII of France that effectively ended Breton autonomy. The scholarly text proves particularly clear in dealing with Roman society, early medieval developments and ducal politics, economics, and social relations; modern Brittany occupies only a few pages. Although the book lacks footnotes, an extensive bibliography covers both chapters and themes; moreover, the maps and graphics are extremely useful. The work should prove challenging in highly involved debates over local tradition. It should also suggest new perspectives on contemporary European discussions of regional and national identity. College and university libraries.-G. W. McDonogh, New College of the University of South Florida
Copyright American Library Association, used with permission.
Review by Choice Review
