A study of two topics of central importance in late medieval history: the impact of war, and the control of disorder. The author examines the effect of the evolution of royal government in England and France. Ranging broadly between 1000 and 1400, he focuses principally on the period c 1290 to c 1360.

'His long and absorbing book may, however, be fairly categorized as the best mind of constitutional history' Times Higher Educational Supplement 'a valuable contribution ... this is a study which has set at least one reader thinking about the wider implications of the issues which it raises' Times Literary Supplement 'substantial and informative work ... Its value lies not so much in the originality of its ideas or the novelty of its sources, but in its clear and vigorous synthesis of a huge literature relating to its major themes. It is strongly comparative in approach ... Students of English and French medieval society at every level will find much to ponder in his thoughtful and authoritative work.' French History 'as is always the case with this publisher, is beautifully produced ... a fascinating comparison of the conditions in which government operated and of its differing achievements in the two countries' Journal of Medieval History 'stimulating and informative ... Because the examination of the interaction of such momentous forces as war, centralization of authority, maintenance of order, administration of justice, and provision of security is so thorough and so acute this study will also furnish valuable insights to those primarily interested in the history of other times and other places.' Richard Jones, Reed College. Albion