Steve's book delves into the Dark Ages

Browse the shelves of any good bookstore and you will find not one, but two books penned by Stephen Batchelor, Head of Faculty for Creative and Visual Arts at MidKent College’s Medway Campus.

Stephen is busy celebrating the publication of Medieval History For Dummies, a comprehensive guide to political, religious and cultural life in the Middle Ages. It is the second book authored by the former history lecturer for the popular For Dummies series, published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd.

“It was a big thinking job because of the extent of the period,” explained the college department head. “It took time to decide what to include and what not to include, and of course, where to start; history doesn’t just begin.

“I decided to open the book with an overview of what is commonly known at the Dark Ages, as this period, which came after the collapse of the Roman Empire, was probably the most difficult to tackle.”

The 35 year old author, who lectured at Richmond Adult Community College and Birkbeck College in London before moving into his current position at MidKent College, believes an examination of medieval history is key to understanding how modern-day Europe was established. “It’s a fascinating period to look at – a time that was incredibly violent and gory, but filled with immense creativity,” he said.   

Medieval History For Dummies is available to buy in all good bookstores now along with The Ancient Greeks For Dummies, also written by expert historian Steve and published in 2008.