This fascinating new volume brings together seventeen authors from across disciplines to offer a detailed and comprehensive history of the European city. Dedicated to the late Derek Keene (1942-2021), the forefather of urban history, this book helps us better understand the development, role and allure of the metropolis throughout history, from medieval times to the 20th century. The chapters offered posit the city as a centre for innovation and political might juxtaposed against a sprawling, diverse community in constant flux. Therein we visit the high and lows of city dwelling, from the migrant population and London poor, to the judges and continental merchants trading in ‘exotic’ goods. “An exemplary volume” (Urban History), this is not one to be missed.
