Best Ancient Rome Encyclopedias: 2 Picks for Roman History and Daily Life
Best Medieval History Encyclopedias: 2 Reference Sets Compared
About the Author
Sesera editorial account organizes laptop, mini PC, smartphone, and gadget buying guides so readers can check the important points before buying.
Choosing a medieval history reference can be tricky when you want a set that matches the topics and period you have in mind.
Their stated coverage and reference features can help you see what each work includes, from themed sections and bibliographies to entries, illustrations, and maps.
This time, we’ll round up Brill’s Encyclopedia of the Middle Ages and The Oxford Dictionary of the Middle Ages.
Quick-reference table of recommended products
| Product name | Volumes in set | Coverage / organization | Reference features |
|---|---|---|---|
 Brill’s Encyclopedia of the Middle Ages (2 vols.) | 2 volumes | Medieval European history and culture, c. 500–c. 1500; organized in eight themed sections | Interdisciplinary and comparative approach; extensive bibliography |
 The Oxford Dictionary of the Middle Ages (4 volume set) | 4 volumes | European history, society, religion, and culture from circa 500 CE to circa 1500 CE; includes relevant aspects of the Byzantine Empire, Islamic dynasties, and medieval Asia | Over 5,000 entries; more than 500 illustrations; 40 maps |
Brill’s Encyclopedia of the Middle Ages (2 vols.)
For readers who want an interdisciplinary reference to medieval European history and culture, Brill’s Encyclopedia of the Middle Ages is recommended. Its coverage spans c. 500–c. 1500 and is organized into eight themed sections, from society and faith to technology and historical regions, helping readers explore the period through several areas of medieval life. The two-volume English-language hardcover set includes an extensive bibliography, which supports readers who want references for further exploration of its topics.
Brill’s Encyclopedia of the Middle Ages (2 vols.)
The Oxford Dictionary of the Middle Ages (4 volume set)
For readers seeking a broad reference for studying medieval Europe and its surrounding influences, The Oxford Dictionary of the Middle Ages is recommended. Its four volumes cover European history, society, religion, and culture from circa 500 CE to circa 1500 CE, with relevant aspects of the Byzantine Empire, Islamic dynasties, and medieval Asia also included. With over 5,000 entries, more than 500 illustrations, and 40 maps, this English-language hardcover set offers an extensive guide for medievalists’ research and teaching as well as for non-specialists exploring the Middle Ages.
The Oxford Dictionary of the Middle Ages (4 volume set)
Choosing a Medieval History Encyclopedia
- Readers seeking an interdisciplinary reference to medieval European history and culture
- Readers looking for a reference covering medieval Europe alongside relevant Byzantine, Islamic, and Asian topics
- Medievalists seeking a reference for research and teaching, or non-specialists looking for a guide to the Middle Ages
