The Early Churchills by A L Rowse
The Early Churchills by A.L. Rowse
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This book tells the story of the Churchill family who lived during the Cromwellian period right through to the first hanover king George I. The main part of the story is about John Churchill who became the Duke of Marlborough as a reward for his excellent work winning wars for the country especially against the French ar the battle of Blenheim during Queen Anne's reign.
I have always remembered being told that A L Rowse was a significant historian however I found the tone of his writing quite misogynistic (is that a word?). I did not know much about this period, though, and found this an interesting insight into the period.
Rowse obviously admired John Churchill and feels that his Duchess Sarah did not help him despite the fact that they had a love match that survived their whole married life. This is shown by Sarah completing Blenheim as a memorial to John after his death despite the fact she never liked the house and felt it was over extravagant. On the other hand she built Marlborough House in London which was in the simple ste she much preferred.
An interesting and though provoking book despite the writing style.
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