`In all, this is another entertaining and informative book from Gorgon Mingay. His skill as narrator gives form to an extended period of history and to a rich diversity of topics.' - Social History Society Newsletter
`Anyone who wishes to understand the true nature of our rural history will find Professor Mingay a rewarding guide, in small matters and in large.' - Literary Review
Introduction, G. E. Mingay; Chapter 1 Lord and Peasant, G. E. Mingay; Chapter 2 The Progress of the Plough, G. E. Mingay; Chapter 3 In Sickness and in Health: Disease and Famine, G. E. Mingay; Chapter 4 Plenty and Want, G. E. Mingay; Chapter 5 Landed Society and Rural Culture, G. E. Mingay; Chapter 6 The Two Faces of the Countryside, G. E. Mingay; Chapter 7 The Countryside in Decline, 1870–1914, G. E. Mingay; Chapter 8 The Countryside in War and Peace, G. E. Mingay;