Historian Ian Mortimer Charts England's Past Through His Own Home

Historian Ian Mortimer's new book, "Through The Windows Of An Ordinary House," explores the history of England by delving into the past of his own home, Mearsdon Manor, located on the edge of Dartmoor. The house itself is a composite of different eras, with its dining room dating to the 17th century, the hall to 1590, and the kitchen retaining medieval characteristics, including a Tudor fireplace.

Mortimer traces the lives of various occupants, from peasants and shoemakers to a clergyman and, eventually, himself. The book challenges some common historical assumptions. For instance, the Norman invasion of 1066 is depicted as relatively mild for the local inhabitants of Moretonhampstead, the village where the house is situated. Anglo-Saxon residents were largely left to their own devices by their new French-speaking rulers, provided they adhered to the law, though serious offenses could result in severe punishments like blinding and castration.

The book also addresses the impact of environmental disasters, such as the plague that significantly impacted Moreton in 1349, wiping out an estimated 65 percent of the village's population. Mortimer contrasts this with the COVID-19 pandemic, noting that comparisons are often overstated, stating, "Ask me again when the UK death toll passes 30 million."

Mearsdon Manor, also known as 32 Cross Street, has a documented history stretching back to 1300. The narrative gains particular life when focusing on specific individuals, such as the 13th-century village priest, Adam of Moreton. Accused of murder and later released, Adam reportedly continued to misuse church funds, brew beer in the church, and allow his cattle to graze in the graveyard. When the book centers on the direct history of the house and its inhabitants, the past is brought to vivid life.

"Through The Windows Of An Ordinary House" is available from the Mail Bookshop.