Abstract

Landscape and History explores a complex relationship over the past five centuries. The book is international and interdisciplinary in scope, drawing on material from social, economic and cultural history as well as from geography, archaeology, cultural geography, planning and landscape history.

In recent years, as the author points out, there has been increasing interest in, and concern for, many aspects of landscape within British, European and wider contexts. This has included the study of the history, development and changes in our perception of landscape, as well as research into the links between past landscapes and political ideologies, economic and social structures, cartography, art and literature.

There is also considerable concern at present with the need to evaluate and classify historic landscapes, and to develop policies for their conservation and management in relation to their scenic, heritage and recreational value. This is manifest not only in the designation of particularly valued areas with enhanced protection from planning developments, such as national parks and world heritage sites, but in the countryside more generally. Further, Ian D. Whyte argues, changes in European Union policies relating to agriculture, with a greater concern for the protection and sustainable management of rural landscapes, are likely to be of major importance in relation to the themes of continuity and change in the landscapes of Britain and Europe.
an extremely useful text that brings together coverage of several landscape-related topics . . . by providing an informed account of subjects such as landscape and political ideology, literary landscapes, landscape and national identity, landscape and romantic art, as well as many others, Whyte has performed a great practical service.' –Landscape Research 'a valuable historiographical vade mecum for those generally unfamiliar with the literature and debate on landscape both as a physical form and as a social construct. It is well written, reflecting the expertise and the confidence of the author in this subject . . . [provides] both a wide perspective and a depth of understanding of a topic that continues to intrigue and challenge' – Progress in Human Geography 'an intelligent and ambitious book . . . Whyte displays an enviable knowledge of a vast range of writing, from a very diverse range of academic disciplines . . . highly recommended.' –The Agricultural History Review 'a very accessible, readable and wide-ranging overview.' –Area
Ian D. Whyte is Professor of Historical Geography at the University of Lancaster. He is the author of many books, including Migrants, Emigrants and Immigrants: A Social History of Migration (1991), Climatic Change and Human Society (1995) and Scotland’s Society and Economy in Transition (1997).