Reviews for The Pastons: A Family in the Wars of the Roses

The average rating for The Pastons: A Family in the Wars of the Roses based on 2 reviews is 3.5 stars.

Review # 1 was written on 2015-09-18 00:00:00 John Smith Although letter writing may seem like a thing of the past (I still write letters!); the practice was just emerging in the fifteenth century. Letters written during this period give us an intricate look into the way of life as these words dictated local, political, and even international affairs versus just the nuances of personal life. The Pastons, a family living in England during the 'Wars of the Roses'; wrote and kept a plethora of letters which are still extant today giving us an open window into both the family's and England's affairs. Editor Richard Barber gathers and presents these writings in, "The Pastons: A Family in the Wars of the Roses". "The Pastons" focuses on the content of the family's letters presented in a pseudo-narrative strain whereby some letters are offered in full, others are quoted, and meanwhile they are explained or set into context. Therefore, Barber doesn't simply offer a string of letters but instead provides illuminating reading which actually has a lively flow and pace. The letters chosen by Barber initially highlight familiar and estate affairs versus that of political events but these are not boring and bring a vivid picture of the way of life. The reader will almost feel as though conversing with the Pastons, themselves. This then flows into more eventful letters describing quarrels, battles, law suits, and civil unrest in England. Not only did the Paston family lead eventful lives but they were also involved first-hand with the turmoil taking place in England. "The Pastons" is perfect for both history lovers and HF fans of the period as the letters are accurate and factual primary sources which are ideal for fact checking but Barber also implores a narrative arc which makes "The Pastons" feel almost like a novel. The work is thus very accessible and easy-to-read versus being overly heady. Adding some meat to the skeleton "The Pastons" is Barber's inclination towards detective work and thereby meticulously debunking some hearsay reports. This truly adds to the essence of the work and results in an even heartier read. The concluding focus of "The Pastons" is well-rounded with letters on various topics from love letters (so romantic!) to disease and politics. The actual ending, however, is quite abrupt. Fortunately, this is met with a pleasing Epilogue explaining the future of the family during subsequent reigns and a brief discussion of the discovery of the letters. "The Pastons" is not an exhaustive look at the family or letters but it serves as an excellent introduction as well as a resource for the period. "The Pastons" is much recommended for history or even HF fans with an interest in the Wars of the Roses or of the Paston family (for they are often mentioned in texts on the period).

Review # 2 was written on 2019-09-23 00:00:00 Robert Stanley This is a modernised account of the fortunes of the Paston Family as recorded in their uniquely preserved letters during the 15th century. Paraphrasing to clarify the letters for the modern reader, a chronological approach over three generations with a linking narrative portrays life for the nouveau riche Paston family. With the turbulent background of the War of the Roses, the focus is on the rise to power and authority within the family, using shifting allegiances, legal qualifications and courtly charm to maintain social position. However there is a constant threat of dispossession of money and disputed property rights with potential violence not far under the surface to enforce claims. On a more cheerful note there are arranged marriages to seek whilst linen, cloth, spices and jewellery sought by the Norfolk spouses from their husbands in London. From humble beginnings in 1400 to knighted members of the Royal Court 80 years later, it makes fascinating reading.