Restoration Historians and the English Civil War

Main Themes and Topics

Restoration Historians and the English Civil War by R.C. MacGillivray focuses on the historiography of the English Civil War as covered by English writers up to the publication of Clarendon's History of the Rebellion in 1702. The book explores how this tumultuous period was documented by historians who lived through it or who were close in chronological proximity to the events. MacGillivray delves into the diversity of perspectives that these early historians brought to the subject, highlighting their different treatments of societal problems, psychological insights, and stylistic choices. The text emphasizes the evolving narratives and interpretations of the Civil War, revealing how these historians anticipated many of the themes later crystallized in Clarendon’s magnum opus.

Writing Style and Tone

MacGillivray adopts a scholarly and analytical tone, examining the early historical writings with depth and nuance. The author takes care to present these historians' works in a manner that is accessible to both specialists and those with a broader interest in historical narratives. His style is insightful, with a keen eye for detail, as he parses through the intricate views and stylistic approaches of the period. Readers will find his discussions rich in context, offering a comprehensive understanding of how the English Civil War was perceived by contemporary historians.

Brief Summary

The book offers a detailed study of the various historical narratives written about the English Civil War by English authors before 1702. It provides an exploration of how these early historians portrayed the events and actors of the Civil War, as well as how their writings reflected the social and political milieu of their times. By situating these works within the broader canon of Civil War historiography, MacGillivray illuminates the significant contributions they made to the understanding and interpretation of the war. The work presents a blend of historical analysis and literary critique, giving readers a deeper appreciation of the craft of historical writing during the Restoration period.