Anne Curry

Anne Curry is a leading British medieval historian and academic, specializing in the Hundred Years' War and particularly the Battle of Agincourt. She served as Professor of Medieval History at the University of Southampton and has published extensively on military history and Anglo-French relations in the medieval period. Her groundbreaking research has challenged long-held assumptions about medieval warfare, notably revising estimates of army sizes at the Battle of Agincourt through meticulous analysis of primary sources. Her 2005 work "Agincourt: A New History" has become a definitive text on the subject, while her contribution to the 2015 Agincourt 600th anniversary commemorations demonstrated her position as a leading authority in the field. Curry's academic career includes roles as President of the Historical Association and editor of the Journal of Medieval History. Her expertise extends beyond traditional academic publishing into television and radio, where she has contributed to numerous historical documentaries and programs for the BBC and other broadcasters. Her research methodology combines rigorous examination of administrative and financial records with broader cultural and social perspectives, setting new standards for the study of medieval military history. She continues to influence scholarly understanding of medieval warfare through her ongoing research and publications.

Readers praise Curry's ability to make medieval military history accessible while maintaining academic rigor. Her research methods and use of primary sources receive particular recognition in reviews of "Agincourt: A New History." What readers liked: - Clear explanations of complex administrative records - Methodical debunking of myths about medieval army sizes - Balance of detail and readability - Integration of social and cultural context with military analysis What readers disliked: - Dense statistical sections can be challenging for general readers - Some find her writing style too academic - Limited coverage of battlefield tactics compared to administrative details Ratings: - Goodreads: 4.1/5 (based on 89 ratings) - Amazon: 4.3/5 (based on 42 reviews) One reader noted: "Curry's examination of primary sources provides a fresh perspective on Agincourt, though the statistical analysis requires concentration." Another commented: "The administrative focus helps understand medieval warfare mechanics, but I wanted more battlefield narrative."

Agincourt: A New History - A detailed examination of the 1415 battle that challenges traditional views about English and French army sizes and tactics.

The Battle of Agincourt: Sources and Interpretations - A compilation of primary source materials related to the Battle of Agincourt, including contemporary chronicles and administrative records.

The Hundred Years War - An analysis of the long conflict between England and France from 1337 to 1453, covering military, political, and social aspects.

The Great Warbow: From Hastings to the Mary Rose - A study co-authored with Peter Bartlett examining the development and use of the longbow in medieval warfare.

Arms, Armies and Fortifications in the Hundred Years War - A collection of essays edited by Curry exploring military technology and defensive structures during the Anglo-French conflict.

The Battle of Crécy, 1346 - A historical investigation of the medieval battle, examining both English and French perspectives through documentary evidence.

The Parliament Rolls of Medieval England 1275-1504 - A collaborative scholarly edition of official parliamentary records co-edited with Curry as part of the editorial team.

Ruth Reichl writes memoirs focused on food, cooking, and her experiences as a restaurant critic and food magazine editor. Her behind-the-scenes accounts of the culinary world share Curry's journalistic approach to food writing.

MFK Fisher combines food writing with personal essays and cultural observations from mid-20th century America and Europe. Her work explores the connection between food and memory in a style that influenced Curry's approach.

Michael Pollan examines the intersection of food systems, agriculture, and human culture through investigative journalism. His research-based narratives trace ingredients and cooking methods from source to plate.

Harold McGee focuses on the science of cooking and food preparation through detailed exploration of ingredients and techniques. His work explains cooking processes and food chemistry in clear, accessible terms.

Mark Kurlansky writes micro-histories that trace single ingredients through time and across cultures. His books examine how specific foods have shaped human civilization and cooking practices.