The Course of French History Author:Pierre Goubert This stimulating one-volume history traces the social and economic evolution of France as a nation from the founding of the monarchy in 987, to the present day. Goubert's perspective is a popular one and his interpretation emphasizes how historical occurrences and famous individuals affect the nation as a whole. He is most concerned with how ev... more »ents influenced the lives of ordinary people, rejecting theorizing and systematizing of ideas for reliable, undogmatic information about the past. This synthesis of approaches creates a survey which unites broad chronological scope and a detailed examination of the leading personalities and events of the period, with a "history from below" analysis. The combination of rich interpretive approach with Goubert's distinctively animated and forceful narrative makes this an invaluable text for the academic and general reader alike.« less