Inspired by the classic works of Tawney and Postan, this collection of essays examines their relevance to historians today, distinguishing between their contrasting approaches to the pre-industrial economy and exploring the development of agriculture and rural industry; changes in property rights; and competition over resources in the countryside.

This groundbreaking study questions many of the assumptions surrounding the idea of 'ancient woodland', a term widely used in England for long-established semi-natural woods, shaped by centuries of traditional management.