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The Clock and the Camshaft: And Other Medieval Inventions We Still Can't Live Without
Highlights the importance of medieval innovations as the basis for later technological progress
This history of medieval inventions, focusing on the eleventh to the fourteenth centuries, vividly portrays a thriving era of human ingenuity—and the results are still being felt to this day. From the mechanical clock to the first eyeglasses, both of which revolutionized society, many of the commonplace devices we now take for granted had their origin in the Middle Ages. Divided into ten thematic chapters, the accessible text allows the reader to sample areas of interest or read the book from beginning to end for a complete historical overview.
A chapter on the paper revolution shows that innovations in mill power enabled the mass production of cheap paper, which was instrumental in the later success of the printing press as a means of disseminating affordable books to more people. Another chapter examines the importance of Islamic civilization in preserving ancient Greek texts and the role of translation teams in Sicily and Spain in making those texts available in Latin for a European readership. A chapter on instruments of discovery describes the impact of the astrolabe, which was imported from Islamic lands, and the compass, originally invented in China; these tools plus innovations in shipbuilding spurred on the expansion of European trade and the later age of discovery at the time of Columbus.
Complete with original drawings to illustrate how these early inventions worked, this guided tour through a distant era reveals how medieval farmers, craftsmen, women artisans, and clerical scholars laid the foundations of the modern world.
This history of medieval inventions, focusing on the eleventh to the fourteenth centuries, vividly portrays a thriving era of human ingenuity—and the results are still being felt to this day. From the mechanical clock to the first eyeglasses, both of which revolutionized society, many of the commonplace devices we now take for granted had their origin in the Middle Ages. Divided into ten thematic chapters, the accessible text allows the reader to sample areas of interest or read the book from beginning to end for a complete historical overview.
A chapter on the paper revolution shows that innovations in mill power enabled the mass production of cheap paper, which was instrumental in the later success of the printing press as a means of disseminating affordable books to more people. Another chapter examines the importance of Islamic civilization in preserving ancient Greek texts and the role of translation teams in Sicily and Spain in making those texts available in Latin for a European readership. A chapter on instruments of discovery describes the impact of the astrolabe, which was imported from Islamic lands, and the compass, originally invented in China; these tools plus innovations in shipbuilding spurred on the expansion of European trade and the later age of discovery at the time of Columbus.
Complete with original drawings to illustrate how these early inventions worked, this guided tour through a distant era reveals how medieval farmers, craftsmen, women artisans, and clerical scholars laid the foundations of the modern world.
- GenresHistoryTechnology
304 pages, Hardcover
Published December 3, 2019
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75 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
August 29, 2022
A collection of tech-oriented stories about medieval inventions.
The Clock and the Camshaft: And Other Medieval Inventions We Still Can't Live Without by John W. Farrell shows the Middle Ages as the organic part of the technological advance.
Mistakenly labeled as the dark times, something of a sink between the high Roman culture and Renaissance, the Middle Ages produced many inventions that we still use today. In great detail - and with apparent deep knowledge - the author presents the stories of how these inventions came to life. The clock and the camshaft, the establishment of universities and cathedral-building - the topics vary in scope but always dig to the core.
The book appeals more to the tech-oriented minds that appreciate mechanics and, in general, physics. Some broad topics like the translation movement or the evolution of writing materials could be included in the school textbooks in their entirety.
I recommend the book as a very informative dive-in into the technology of the Middle Ages. I expected the book to be popular science (which I don't particularly like), but the book exceeded my expectations.
I received an advance review copy through BookTasters, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
(My review of the author's second book, on cosmology: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...)
The Clock and the Camshaft: And Other Medieval Inventions We Still Can't Live Without by John W. Farrell shows the Middle Ages as the organic part of the technological advance.
Mistakenly labeled as the dark times, something of a sink between the high Roman culture and Renaissance, the Middle Ages produced many inventions that we still use today. In great detail - and with apparent deep knowledge - the author presents the stories of how these inventions came to life. The clock and the camshaft, the establishment of universities and cathedral-building - the topics vary in scope but always dig to the core.
The book appeals more to the tech-oriented minds that appreciate mechanics and, in general, physics. Some broad topics like the translation movement or the evolution of writing materials could be included in the school textbooks in their entirety.
I recommend the book as a very informative dive-in into the technology of the Middle Ages. I expected the book to be popular science (which I don't particularly like), but the book exceeded my expectations.
I received an advance review copy through BookTasters, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
(My review of the author's second book, on cosmology: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...)
September 25, 2020
This is a useful and readable introduction to the subject of medieval inventions, innovations and developments of technology and ideas. This book would be of most value to those who would find it surprising that "medieval" and "inventions" could even be found in the same sentence. For those who are already fairly familiar with the history of medieval technology and economic development, there is unlikely to be anything new in this neat summary. The use of some more recent corrections of previous overstated claims about medieval milling technology is valuable and the emphasis on the importance of medieval paper milling for the Gutenberg Revolution is also a useful insight. A few odd anachronisms, like referring to the medieval Papacy as "the Vatican", don't detract from a good general work for a popular history audience.
August 30, 2020
John Farrell has done us a real service with this amply illustrated, thoroughly engrossing look at the inventions of the Middle Ages. So often popular conceptions of that dynamic age (the 11th - 14th centuries) have been skewed by prejudice, misinformation, and fraudulent depictions in the forms of entertainment of later ages. "The Clock and the Camshaft" helps dispel such misconceptions by revealing to us the many mechanical, cultural, scientifically investigative, calculative, architectural, and medical achievements of the Medieval world -- a period that might justly be regarded as the true renaissance of the West. The text is highly readable and deeply learned. Not to be missed by those who enjoy science, history, and anything Medieval.
-- Addison Hodges Hart, author of "Confessions of the Antichrist: A Novel" and "The Woman, the Hour, and the Garden: A Study of Imagery in the Gospel of John
-- Addison Hodges Hart, author of "Confessions of the Antichrist: A Novel" and "The Woman, the Hour, and the Garden: A Study of Imagery in the Gospel of John
June 9, 2022
As a teacher of ancient history, I tried to expose students to the difficulty of creating some of the things we take for granted today. Imagine you are in a place that we now historically refer to as Mesopotamia, the "Land between the rivers" in modern day Iraq, and you were attempting to create a language. What type of difficulties might you encounter? Would you create pictographs or try to develop a series of letters? How might you make them uniform in structure. How and why might people have gathered between the rivers? How significant was the discovery and refinement of farming?
This wonderful little book attempts that same approach. It examines many objects and practices in use today, devices and procedures that we rarely even think about, and follows their discovery and refinement. Farming, for example, first practiced at least 7000 years ago, led to the creation of modern civilization, but it wasn't until the invention of the plow, the incorporation of the horse (with horseshoes) and the principle of crop rotation, all some 1300 years ago, that farming as an industry really exploded. Mesopotamian cuneiform, with papyrus, caught hold, the invention of parchment and other forms of tablets assisted, but print really took off with Gutenberg and the printing press. The age of discovery was greatly assisted by the use of the astrolabe, the compass, and a ship-going clock. Did you know that diminished eyesight through aging was once seen as a disease, but glass obtained as a result of expanded trade after the Crusades caused the developed of eyeglasses.
Farrell's book, The Clock and the Camshaft, is teeming with such insights. It is thoroughly researched, causes head shakes in amazement, and is fun and easy to read. Well done!
This wonderful little book attempts that same approach. It examines many objects and practices in use today, devices and procedures that we rarely even think about, and follows their discovery and refinement. Farming, for example, first practiced at least 7000 years ago, led to the creation of modern civilization, but it wasn't until the invention of the plow, the incorporation of the horse (with horseshoes) and the principle of crop rotation, all some 1300 years ago, that farming as an industry really exploded. Mesopotamian cuneiform, with papyrus, caught hold, the invention of parchment and other forms of tablets assisted, but print really took off with Gutenberg and the printing press. The age of discovery was greatly assisted by the use of the astrolabe, the compass, and a ship-going clock. Did you know that diminished eyesight through aging was once seen as a disease, but glass obtained as a result of expanded trade after the Crusades caused the developed of eyeglasses.
Farrell's book, The Clock and the Camshaft, is teeming with such insights. It is thoroughly researched, causes head shakes in amazement, and is fun and easy to read. Well done!
August 11, 2020
Short but interesting.
April 24, 2022
The Clock and the Camshaft: Review
The Clock and the Camshaft and Other Medieval Inventions We Still Can’t Live Without by John W. Farrell
This is a book that spans over 500 years of history is a simple, quick, and interesting manner. If history was like this in school, students would pay more attention. It is true that for those of us that are technically challenged some of the explanations went over my head – but that is not a problem. The book is filled with historical context, personalities, and language making it a pleasure to read – even when one did not fully understand the technical machinations.
Society develops technology to address the changes that are already taking place within it. ~ Mark Kurlansky
Insights: that is what this book shared. Insights on how instruments allowed us to boldly go, explore, trade, and survive. Insights on astronomy and language. Insights on business and wealth creation. Insights on paper and words. Insights on nature and human ingenuity. Insights on our search for enlightenment and the human soul.
Some of these insights, tidbits some might say, but of interest to my worldview included.:
• the population of Europe went from a high of sixty-seven million people at the peak of the Roman Empire (200 CE) to just twenty-seven million by the year 700 CE.
• Medieval corn, as it was known, was actually wheat, not to be confused with the corn people today recognize as native to the Americas.
• … first paper mills, the thunderous sound of their relentless trip-hammers frightening the residents of northern Italy in the thirteenth century
• …it was through Sicily, another Islamic toehold on the European continent, that the technique for papermaking worked its way into Italy
• Gutenberg failed to repay his loan to Fust, who then sued him and won possession of all of Gutenberg’s printing presses and the remaining unsold bibles. Gutenberg languished and spent the rest of his career managing a print shop in Mainz, eventually dying in poverty.
The author also shared his thoughts on how this period of history lay the foundations for the glories of the Renaissance. Yes, the Renaissance would have struggled and sputtered without the knowledge of the ancient Greeks (and Romans) that was reacquired via the Arabs providing a solid foundation of knowledge and learning. In some ways Chapter 7, “From Greek to Arabic and Back Again” should be required reading for all – in both the West and the Arab speaking world. We are connected. Very, very, connected.
It was the printing and publishing and with it the reading and writing that emerged from the cloisters and universities that lay much of the foundations for the modern world. With the written word being published Europeans were introduced to an intoxicating array of new kinds of books and tracts that they could read on their own – and this reading fed the need for education. This education and knowledge led to further pondering, research, discovery, and sharing. In essence a virtuous circle of learning and progress.
Perhaps that is the underlying theme of the book. That while we can celebrate individual accomplishments, that reality is that giants rise on the backs and shoulders of the masses. We are linked in and needful of community. Humans are and should be social animals.
My review copy was supplied via @Booktasters to whom I am grateful. However, all errors and omissions in this review are strictly my own.
Lino Matteo ©™
Twitter @Lino_Matteo
https://linomatteo.wordpress.com/2022...
The Clock and the Camshaft and Other Medieval Inventions We Still Can’t Live Without by John W. Farrell
This is a book that spans over 500 years of history is a simple, quick, and interesting manner. If history was like this in school, students would pay more attention. It is true that for those of us that are technically challenged some of the explanations went over my head – but that is not a problem. The book is filled with historical context, personalities, and language making it a pleasure to read – even when one did not fully understand the technical machinations.
Society develops technology to address the changes that are already taking place within it. ~ Mark Kurlansky
Insights: that is what this book shared. Insights on how instruments allowed us to boldly go, explore, trade, and survive. Insights on astronomy and language. Insights on business and wealth creation. Insights on paper and words. Insights on nature and human ingenuity. Insights on our search for enlightenment and the human soul.
Some of these insights, tidbits some might say, but of interest to my worldview included.:
• the population of Europe went from a high of sixty-seven million people at the peak of the Roman Empire (200 CE) to just twenty-seven million by the year 700 CE.
• Medieval corn, as it was known, was actually wheat, not to be confused with the corn people today recognize as native to the Americas.
• … first paper mills, the thunderous sound of their relentless trip-hammers frightening the residents of northern Italy in the thirteenth century
• …it was through Sicily, another Islamic toehold on the European continent, that the technique for papermaking worked its way into Italy
• Gutenberg failed to repay his loan to Fust, who then sued him and won possession of all of Gutenberg’s printing presses and the remaining unsold bibles. Gutenberg languished and spent the rest of his career managing a print shop in Mainz, eventually dying in poverty.
The author also shared his thoughts on how this period of history lay the foundations for the glories of the Renaissance. Yes, the Renaissance would have struggled and sputtered without the knowledge of the ancient Greeks (and Romans) that was reacquired via the Arabs providing a solid foundation of knowledge and learning. In some ways Chapter 7, “From Greek to Arabic and Back Again” should be required reading for all – in both the West and the Arab speaking world. We are connected. Very, very, connected.
It was the printing and publishing and with it the reading and writing that emerged from the cloisters and universities that lay much of the foundations for the modern world. With the written word being published Europeans were introduced to an intoxicating array of new kinds of books and tracts that they could read on their own – and this reading fed the need for education. This education and knowledge led to further pondering, research, discovery, and sharing. In essence a virtuous circle of learning and progress.
Perhaps that is the underlying theme of the book. That while we can celebrate individual accomplishments, that reality is that giants rise on the backs and shoulders of the masses. We are linked in and needful of community. Humans are and should be social animals.
My review copy was supplied via @Booktasters to whom I am grateful. However, all errors and omissions in this review are strictly my own.
Lino Matteo ©™
Twitter @Lino_Matteo
https://linomatteo.wordpress.com/2022...
July 25, 2021
Had you ever wondered how medieval people live their life? Or what kind of technology that they used during that time?
This book is written by John W. Farrell, an author with a great passion for history, and through it, he will explore the medieval invention and technologies that had been used during that time. Consisted of 10 chapters with many interesting topics to explore, it will give some insights on the Medieval Era and the development of technology.
What I can say is this book gives me deeper insights and new perspectives especially on the Medieval Era. Since I am interested o History, this book really captures my attention. The author also includes some nice illustrations and drawings about some equipment that had been using that time like rotary hand mill, heavy plow, and horse collar. Despite the rapid and sometimes unpredictable changes in technology in today's modern world, some of the medieval inventions are still relevant and still being used in few parts of the world like the horse collars but with some minor changes to makes them easier to use.
When discussing technology and inventions, we cannot run away from how they can affect Nature whether positively or negatively. In Chapter 2, the author had mentioned about few civilizations in the world that adapting nature and using it to create a more sustainable technology like the Chinese, and Roman civilizations. Soon, medieval Europe begins to adopt it too. I find it is very interesting since they managed to improving and using their technology at that time without harming nature or affected it more negatively for hundred years if compared to now. This book also refreshes our memory of some historical figures or authors during the Antiquity and Medieval Period. Say hello to Strabo, Antipater and Vitruvius!
As Adam Lucas, a historian had said about it, "technological developments in some regions of medieval Europe during certain key periods was significant, impressive, and perhaps in some instances might even warrant the appellation, revolutionary". I really enjoyed this book and how added my knowledge about the Medieval Period in technology and invention context. Clear, easy to understand with few illustrations to gives a whole picture for readers, I can say that the author had delivered his message very well. So, 5-star for it!
This book is written by John W. Farrell, an author with a great passion for history, and through it, he will explore the medieval invention and technologies that had been used during that time. Consisted of 10 chapters with many interesting topics to explore, it will give some insights on the Medieval Era and the development of technology.
What I can say is this book gives me deeper insights and new perspectives especially on the Medieval Era. Since I am interested o History, this book really captures my attention. The author also includes some nice illustrations and drawings about some equipment that had been using that time like rotary hand mill, heavy plow, and horse collar. Despite the rapid and sometimes unpredictable changes in technology in today's modern world, some of the medieval inventions are still relevant and still being used in few parts of the world like the horse collars but with some minor changes to makes them easier to use.
When discussing technology and inventions, we cannot run away from how they can affect Nature whether positively or negatively. In Chapter 2, the author had mentioned about few civilizations in the world that adapting nature and using it to create a more sustainable technology like the Chinese, and Roman civilizations. Soon, medieval Europe begins to adopt it too. I find it is very interesting since they managed to improving and using their technology at that time without harming nature or affected it more negatively for hundred years if compared to now. This book also refreshes our memory of some historical figures or authors during the Antiquity and Medieval Period. Say hello to Strabo, Antipater and Vitruvius!
As Adam Lucas, a historian had said about it, "technological developments in some regions of medieval Europe during certain key periods was significant, impressive, and perhaps in some instances might even warrant the appellation, revolutionary". I really enjoyed this book and how added my knowledge about the Medieval Period in technology and invention context. Clear, easy to understand with few illustrations to gives a whole picture for readers, I can say that the author had delivered his message very well. So, 5-star for it!
September 1, 2022
First of all, I have to say I'm not a fan of history. It was one of the subjects I always tried to avoid back then in high school. So, why then do I brace myself to read this book? The answer is just because I want to.
Usually, when I'm reading a history book, there will be many annotations as the results of how my brain tries to connect each timeline. But this is an eBook. I know I can highlight it by device, but it's not the same. So all I did was just read without trying to remember. When I found something that I don't remember whether it's been written in the book or haven't, I just shrugged it off and continue to read. As long as I understand it while reading. Well, a bizarre experience I must say.
The book itself isn't bad. In fact, it's nice. Farrell wrote this book using the first-person perspective, so it's like reading historical fiction. A nice approach. If I have this kind of book back then, I think I at least will pass my tests.
The writing is neat, there are some illustrations, the approach (first-person perspective) is interesting and the timeline is detailed.
Again, I am not a history fan nor an expert, but most of the sources are from Bible, is that correct? I'm not trying to discriminate or anything, it's just, I'm a Muslim, and I find it a little bit uncomfortable to read a history book that mostly cites to Bible. Why don't you use the other sources, too? I don't know if there are any other sources, but in my opinion, it'll be better if the sources vary. After all, this book is supposed to be read by all kinds of people, right? Not just Christian.
Other than that, I have no other discomfort. Overall, this is a nice book.
Usually, when I'm reading a history book, there will be many annotations as the results of how my brain tries to connect each timeline. But this is an eBook. I know I can highlight it by device, but it's not the same. So all I did was just read without trying to remember. When I found something that I don't remember whether it's been written in the book or haven't, I just shrugged it off and continue to read. As long as I understand it while reading. Well, a bizarre experience I must say.
The book itself isn't bad. In fact, it's nice. Farrell wrote this book using the first-person perspective, so it's like reading historical fiction. A nice approach. If I have this kind of book back then, I think I at least will pass my tests.
The writing is neat, there are some illustrations, the approach (first-person perspective) is interesting and the timeline is detailed.
Again, I am not a history fan nor an expert, but most of the sources are from Bible, is that correct? I'm not trying to discriminate or anything, it's just, I'm a Muslim, and I find it a little bit uncomfortable to read a history book that mostly cites to Bible. Why don't you use the other sources, too? I don't know if there are any other sources, but in my opinion, it'll be better if the sources vary. After all, this book is supposed to be read by all kinds of people, right? Not just Christian.
Other than that, I have no other discomfort. Overall, this is a nice book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 6, 2022
“The Clock and the Camshaft,” by John Farrell is an informative and enjoyable examinations of innovations in medieval technology. The book is well researched and documented. Many illustrations and photographs accompany the text to supplement the information describing these inventions and discoveries.
The book explores ancient “technology” such as the development of the plow, the rotation of crops, the evolution from oxen to horses to plow fields, the use of horseshoes to prevent wear to the horse’s hooves as well as to provide additional traction as they plowed.
Among the many inventions and discoveries covered are:
• Water and grain mills;
• Windmills;
• The hand crank;
• The Camshaft;
• The mass production of inexpensive paper which spread literacy throughout Europe;
• Time keeping devices;
• The design, architecture, and building of cathedrals;
• Eyeglasses;
• The magnetic compass;
• The science of astronomy; and
• Ship building.
Many of these inventions and discoveries are commonplace in our world today, such as eyeglasses, watches, and the compass, and are taken for granted by most people.
The book would be especially enjoyed and appreciated by those who are attracted to science. But even if not, it was an enjoyable and enlightening stroll down the history of these inventions and discoveries.
My only complaint was the author’s assertion of human fueled climate change and that it has been occurring since the Middle Ages. Also the use of CE and BCE instead of the conventional BC and AD to describe periods of time was annoying. But get past those issues and the book is a great and fascinating look back at history.
The book explores ancient “technology” such as the development of the plow, the rotation of crops, the evolution from oxen to horses to plow fields, the use of horseshoes to prevent wear to the horse’s hooves as well as to provide additional traction as they plowed.
Among the many inventions and discoveries covered are:
• Water and grain mills;
• Windmills;
• The hand crank;
• The Camshaft;
• The mass production of inexpensive paper which spread literacy throughout Europe;
• Time keeping devices;
• The design, architecture, and building of cathedrals;
• Eyeglasses;
• The magnetic compass;
• The science of astronomy; and
• Ship building.
Many of these inventions and discoveries are commonplace in our world today, such as eyeglasses, watches, and the compass, and are taken for granted by most people.
The book would be especially enjoyed and appreciated by those who are attracted to science. But even if not, it was an enjoyable and enlightening stroll down the history of these inventions and discoveries.
My only complaint was the author’s assertion of human fueled climate change and that it has been occurring since the Middle Ages. Also the use of CE and BCE instead of the conventional BC and AD to describe periods of time was annoying. But get past those issues and the book is a great and fascinating look back at history.
March 12, 2023
We could hardly imagine our modern society without the latest technology, gadgets, advancements in science, generally speaking. However, maybe only some people truly appreciate the long road society has walked to this day in order to achieve such a level of progress.
The foundations could be found somewhere around 13-14th c., i.e. in the Middle Ages, especially in Europe.
Moreover, the author does not stop there. To fully grasp the evolution of human thought, he also points out the role and contribution of some older societies and cultures like Ancient Greece, Egypt, China, the Middle East etc.
So the 'principle of continuity' is clearly visible.
The ingenuity of ordinary people, as well as their imagination, everyday efforts, brilliant ideas, among other things, has been sufficiently outlined throughout the book.
Once again, can we really picture our world today without the wheel, harnessing wind power, water, any type of energy etc. Even the clock itself, no matter how 'obsolete' it might seem for some today in its original form; or the computer - an invention that was initially thought out nearly 200 years ago or so.
On the other hand, undoubtedly, we tend to take such things for granted nowadays.
The message of the book is apparent, positive and even 'uplifting' in a way.
The style of writing is easy to grasp, immersive and informative.
Well reaserched, well done.
Highly recommended to people who want to learn something new and interesting about history, science and technology.
The foundations could be found somewhere around 13-14th c., i.e. in the Middle Ages, especially in Europe.
Moreover, the author does not stop there. To fully grasp the evolution of human thought, he also points out the role and contribution of some older societies and cultures like Ancient Greece, Egypt, China, the Middle East etc.
So the 'principle of continuity' is clearly visible.
The ingenuity of ordinary people, as well as their imagination, everyday efforts, brilliant ideas, among other things, has been sufficiently outlined throughout the book.
Once again, can we really picture our world today without the wheel, harnessing wind power, water, any type of energy etc. Even the clock itself, no matter how 'obsolete' it might seem for some today in its original form; or the computer - an invention that was initially thought out nearly 200 years ago or so.
On the other hand, undoubtedly, we tend to take such things for granted nowadays.
The message of the book is apparent, positive and even 'uplifting' in a way.
The style of writing is easy to grasp, immersive and informative.
Well reaserched, well done.
Highly recommended to people who want to learn something new and interesting about history, science and technology.
May 12, 2022
I love seeing how things connect, and historical fiction. This book allows the reader to see how the past impacted our present (sometimes on repeat) and, for me personally, to place the fiction I read in a factual historical context.
If you are an engineer, academic, a researcher, or simply love to tinker, then this would be your go to source since John W. Farrell has done so much of the research for you as well as cited sources for accuracy.
The author shows us from the very beginning that knowledge was often lost and then found again. In that respect, it was interesting how issues and debates today are on a continuum from yesterday. Progress made in certain areas – women’s rights is one example – are reminiscent of a time when people because of gender, origin, or place in society were mere chattels. This book shows that humans no longer have the excuse of ignorance.
It is not an easy ready but a good one and recommended. I received a complimentary copy for a fair review.
If you are an engineer, academic, a researcher, or simply love to tinker, then this would be your go to source since John W. Farrell has done so much of the research for you as well as cited sources for accuracy.
The author shows us from the very beginning that knowledge was often lost and then found again. In that respect, it was interesting how issues and debates today are on a continuum from yesterday. Progress made in certain areas – women’s rights is one example – are reminiscent of a time when people because of gender, origin, or place in society were mere chattels. This book shows that humans no longer have the excuse of ignorance.
It is not an easy ready but a good one and recommended. I received a complimentary copy for a fair review.
August 21, 2021
Middle age innovations were both domestic – like the windmill – and imported from the Bedouin east, where exceptional math, for example, polynomial math empowered the advancement of another study of stargazing dependent on an ascertaining gadget – like the astrolabe. Much more groundbreaking was the thirteenth-century mechanical clock, which brought about contemporary components like exactness estimating and legitimate racial separation. The mechanical clock of the thirteenth century, which brought about such contemporary components as exactness estimation, and the lawful insurgency, which permitted the advancement of corporate units with lawful character, were considerably more groundbreaking. The archaic world is pretty much as different as John Farrell's depiction of innovations and inventivity.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 23, 2021
This book is absolutely amazing, especially for those who are interested in this particular topic. As an admirer of medieval history, I'd long been searching for a book like this. Here, the inventions of the medieval age, i.e., 12th to 14th century, are illustrated very nicely and it grows interest in the minds of the readers how the simple inventions of that age, which emerged for various purposes, have transformed the world and the upcoming innovations. The excellence of the author must be appreciated here. The way he placed the words in the book, has really attracted me to go on with the story. For those who have been looking for something to learn about the background of many of the essential technologies of modern days, this book can be a good choice!
October 11, 2021
The book starts of well with the first chapter indicating the need for the book, that how the times have changed be it through rule or natural changes but people Haven't stopped adapting and innovating. Each chapter that follows, takes you through the journey if whatever innovation is the highlight of the chapter. For a avid science and history reader, the book failed to entice me as it couldn't offer me anything new or out of the box. Also although the book has ample of illustrations, I found them to be very superficial. There was a need for more detailed illustration, like a detailed description being accompanied by a detailed picture would help in better understanding as well as make it more interesting.
Overall an average read.
Overall an average read.
November 21, 2021
I did not find this book an easy read because it's quite technical. But it does an excellent job of explaining how bits of historical evidence have been pieced together to understand how technology has advanced.
The author mentions an interesting fact that we tend to think of technology as smart gadgets and the Internet and we forget how tools as basic as the stone grinding mill and the mechanical clock made it possible for humans to give up backbreaking labor and find enough leisure time to focus on other things.
An extensively researched book, The Clock and the Camshaft has several illustrations to support the author's story. It's a fascinating look into how medieval inventions came to be between the 11th century and the 14th century.
I received a free e-copy from Booktasters with a request for an honest review.
The author mentions an interesting fact that we tend to think of technology as smart gadgets and the Internet and we forget how tools as basic as the stone grinding mill and the mechanical clock made it possible for humans to give up backbreaking labor and find enough leisure time to focus on other things.
An extensively researched book, The Clock and the Camshaft has several illustrations to support the author's story. It's a fascinating look into how medieval inventions came to be between the 11th century and the 14th century.
I received a free e-copy from Booktasters with a request for an honest review.
February 12, 2023
This book will be an excellent resource for writers who are into word building or are simply writing historic fiction.
The language is simple, comprehensible. All the sentences are free flowing and the transition between paragraphs is smooth.
Its easy to read but takes a moment to process, so it occupies the sweet spot between a wikipedia article and a course prescribed history book.
One of the rare instances where a book with an enticing cover did not disappoint.
Densely fact packed at places, metaphysical at others.
If you want, you can be a bit more technical at times.
Feel like these are all the things I've been told were historically important in school history lessons but the "why" angle was never explored.
The language is simple, comprehensible. All the sentences are free flowing and the transition between paragraphs is smooth.
Its easy to read but takes a moment to process, so it occupies the sweet spot between a wikipedia article and a course prescribed history book.
One of the rare instances where a book with an enticing cover did not disappoint.
Densely fact packed at places, metaphysical at others.
If you want, you can be a bit more technical at times.
Feel like these are all the things I've been told were historically important in school history lessons but the "why" angle was never explored.
July 21, 2021
I thoroughly enjoyed this stroll through history via the progress of science and inventions throughout the centuries. It is fascinating how each discovery and innovation builds on the previous one. The invention of the printing press was enabled by the evolution of papyrus to parchment to pulp. Astrolabes, compasses, and clocks were essential to the development of civilizations. Even during the Middle Ages when scientific progress seemed stalled, European monks were busy translating manuscripts from Middle Eastern and Ancient Greek scholars that would inspire future philosophers and thinkers.
I think this book would appeal to lovers of both history and science, and I feel smarter for having read this book.
I think this book would appeal to lovers of both history and science, and I feel smarter for having read this book.
April 9, 2023
This is not a book, this is a scientist work exploring in great detail the development and evolution of a couple of tools without witch our present wouldn't look the same at all.
Complete with detailed sketches and layouts of the tools, this is very comprehensive study for anyone who hadn't a first clue of how things like turbines or glass is made.
My fav chapter though was, unsurprisingly, the one about the development of paper! ♥
Disclaimer: I got this book for free by the author in exchange for an honest review. I can honestly say that it's a skillfully written one and I enjoyed learning all the new words describing pieces of ancient machines. Thank you!
Complete with detailed sketches and layouts of the tools, this is very comprehensive study for anyone who hadn't a first clue of how things like turbines or glass is made.
My fav chapter though was, unsurprisingly, the one about the development of paper! ♥
Disclaimer: I got this book for free by the author in exchange for an honest review. I can honestly say that it's a skillfully written one and I enjoyed learning all the new words describing pieces of ancient machines. Thank you!
August 25, 2021
When I started to read this book, I cheerfully thought to myself, "Now this is my kind of book." It was and yet it wasn't quite the fit I had hoped for. Let's start with the good. It covers a wide array of topics and inventions from the early-mid Middle Ages. What I struggled with was that for roughly half of the book, the author seemed to presume that his readers had a moderate level of understanding of mechanical engineering. I'm an engineer, but have never studied mechanical engineering beyond the very basics (e.g., nuts, bolts and pulleys).
February 18, 2021
I really enjoyed this book. As a medieval enthusiast, I had prior knowledge of many of the things Farrell discusses here, but I was delighted to find that he added a great deal of extra information and sources about the subjects in each chapter.
I enjoyed his accessible writing style which made the book easy to read and follow without over-simplifying the information. A really good balance which is often lacking in books about technology.
I enjoyed his accessible writing style which made the book easy to read and follow without over-simplifying the information. A really good balance which is often lacking in books about technology.
October 27, 2023
It's a great book, starting with a small tool and providing realistic and accurate information about the course of history and each era! The author's insight is excellent, starting with a small tool and being able to read through the great flow of history.
From the past to the present, nothing happens by accident. Up to the smallest and most complicated detail in the world, created by the inevitable actions of individuals, the book has provided a pleasant and exciting journey back to the past.
From the past to the present, nothing happens by accident. Up to the smallest and most complicated detail in the world, created by the inevitable actions of individuals, the book has provided a pleasant and exciting journey back to the past.
August 24, 2020
This was a great book, easy to read with lots of very useful and enlightening information. It was a good consolidation of information. The topics covered were very interesting. It is well written, flowing.
December 21, 2021
While interesting at times, this was very much a slog for me. I think it could have used more images, as others have noted. But, I also think it read almost like a textbook, and so not very engaging for me.
May 17, 2023
Thanks to Booktasters for the free copy.
I really enjoyed this brief review of Medieval inventions. Not all of these were reviewed in school. I think anyone with an interest in mechanics or engineering would enjoy reading this book.
I really enjoyed this brief review of Medieval inventions. Not all of these were reviewed in school. I think anyone with an interest in mechanics or engineering would enjoy reading this book.
September 9, 2021
Very detailed book with decent amount of illustrations, its talks about past inventions in extream details and how they have helped in that time.
April 5, 2022
The geek in me that loves to know about how things work in the context of the period they were created. This book hit all those boxes. It was fascinating to read.
November 28, 2022
Greatly enjoyed this survey of mechanical technology in the Middle Ages. Lots of clear descriptions and diagrams. You can definitely judge this book by its cover; you get exactly what you expect.
October 19, 2021
This book is about the beginning of inventions and how they were used centuries ago and how they came to be and their influence on development and humanity.
The writer takes you through the ambit of medieval technology and inventions that preceded some of the machines or other implements of civilisation currently in use such as telling time and the origin of clocks, paper and writing and other methods of writing and general ideas and the growth of the field of philosophy.
You will love this book if you you have a deep love for history and what happened to our ancestors centuries ago and how they handled issues of development of the communities around them. The influence of the Church and the state in the growth and use of inventions is also explored. It is very well researched and with diagrams to provide a diagrammatic view of what some of these inventions looked like and as they were improved.
This is basically a history book on major inventions that continue to have a major influence on humanity.
The writer takes you through the ambit of medieval technology and inventions that preceded some of the machines or other implements of civilisation currently in use such as telling time and the origin of clocks, paper and writing and other methods of writing and general ideas and the growth of the field of philosophy.
You will love this book if you you have a deep love for history and what happened to our ancestors centuries ago and how they handled issues of development of the communities around them. The influence of the Church and the state in the growth and use of inventions is also explored. It is very well researched and with diagrams to provide a diagrammatic view of what some of these inventions looked like and as they were improved.
This is basically a history book on major inventions that continue to have a major influence on humanity.
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September 18, 2022“While civilizations are mortal, each one has, before succumbing to its fate, prepared a heritage of which its successors were never unaware,” according to historian Maurice Daumas. This book surveys some of the tools from antiquity that form the foundation of industry in the early Middle Ages. The author argues that contrary to the idea that technology changes society, “it has more often been the reverse: society develops technology to address the changes that are already taking place within it.” The plow, the ox yoke, horses, horseshoes, water mills, wind mills, camshaft, paper, movable type, clocks, eyeglasses, and more.
We are going to interview the author, John Farrell, on The Soul of Enterprise, on October 14, 2022. Link to follow.
We are going to interview the author, John Farrell, on The Soul of Enterprise, on October 14, 2022. Link to follow.
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