Historical Dictionary of the British Monarchy

Kenneth J. Panton is professor emeritus at the University of Southern Mississippi, where he was dean of the Honors College. His publications include Historical Dictionary of the United Kingdom (co-authored with Keith A. Cowlard), the Historical Dictionary of London and, most recently and again with Keith Cowlard, the Historical Dictionary of the Contemporary United Kingdom.

The British monarchy stretches back into the dim past of recorded history, and a dictionary covering the subject would by necessity be lengthy. Indeed, this dictionary is exactly that, but every detail, entry, and page deserve the space accorded them because the author’s goal is comprehensiveness, which he most assuredly reaches. Cogency, partnered with thorough coverage, is the calling card here. Expectedly, every sovereign in the history of both the English and Scottish monarchies is given a biographical treatment, from one or two paragraphs—such as for King Eadwig (ca. 941–959) and King Ceawlin (ca. 536–593)—to, as in the cases of King Henry VIII and Queen Victoria, for instance, a two-page presentation. Lesser members of the various royal dynasties earn an entry if, as with the current House of Windsor, they have contemporary interest or, with older dynasties (Tudor, Stuart, etc.), have left some mark on history. In these portraits, the author cites important information about the individual’s life, and in most instances, he interjects a kernel of insight into character and personal significance. Of course, events and places affiliated with monarchical history occupy much space; the 1701 Act of Settlement, for instance, is cited for its immediate and long-lasting effects, as is Linlithgow Palace, in Scotland, placed in its historical context. Likewise, readers will find an incisive explanation of the Glorious Revolution of 1688 as well as a historical view of Westminster Abbey. Most helpful after all is said and done is the inclusion of “theoretical” concepts associated with the monarchy: such terms as Civil list, Heir (or heiress) presumptive, and Princess Royal. The author’s Familiarity with these terms, definitions of which are not as clearly explained in other sources, contributes to a greatly impressive understanding of the British monarchy’s practices and principles. Recommended for academic and large public libraries.