The Magnificent Century

By: Thomas B. Costain

Narrated by: David Case

The Magnificent Century, the second volume of Costain's A History of the Plantagenets, covers Henry III's long and turbulent reign, from 1216 to 1272.
During his lifetime Henry was frequently unpopular, unreliable and inconsistent. Yet his reign saw spectacular advancement in the arts, sciences and theology, as well as in government. Despite all, it was truly a magnificent century.
"Combines a love of the subject with factual history. . .a great story." (San Francisco Chronicle)©1993 Thomas Costain; (P)2008 Random House Audio

Tremendous History

Series continues brilliantly. David Case is just right for this narrative. Diving into book 3!

Superb Writing and Narration

I’ve read and listened to this book and the series of Costain’s writings on this subject for many years. David Case, the narrator, makes this continuously fascinating. His voice alone is so wonderful that I’ve sought out many other audible recordings just to listen to him. And, Costain was a legend. There will never be another like him and what he did for these historical times.

Oldie and Goody

An old but still relevant series on a critical time in the development of the English political tradition which influenced our development 500 years later in the US. You will rarely hear an author say anything good about Simon de Montfort.

They don't write histories like this anymore....

And they should, this first installment focuses on the difficult and contemplated times of Henry the second and Eleanor of Aquitane and of course, Thomas Becket. It continues on through Richard and focuses around the conditions and people that led to the Magna Charta a well rounded and entertaining explanation of complex legalities not to mention the arrogance of the evil King John....

I cannot say enough good about this series, and I do recommend the whole thing. The fact that this hisory was written in the fties and early sixties shouldnt dissuade a lover of British history. I was worried since they were written before my birth,but I adore Briish hisoty and shouldnt have worried.It's written in a modern language and a wit that
few writers or historians of any time ever achieve. Costain doesnt overlook the ridiculous or the incredible falsity of myth. It is not the story of only royalty but of people and a age. It has the cadence of that rare professor one would rather listen to than take notes. The narrator has perfect inflection to the words written. It is a true combination of talented equals. I knew of Thomas Costain's fiction but not his non-fiction. They are a much loved part of my mother's library, sadly I think that he may have been out of print of years, these works must be the last of his life. Truly a commendment to a life well-lived. My thanks to Audible for putting this out and choosing the best narration of a book I've ever heard and I am an audio addict.

Great history lesson.

Well written, great narrator, totally enjoyable. I will listen to these again and again. Thank Thomas B. Costain for your devotion to your craft.