The Queen: A Biography of Elizabeth II

by Ben Pimlott (Author)

• Used

  Paperback
  1997

  $3.28

• Used

  Hardcover
  1996

  $3.28

  The institution of monarchy in Britain is in deep crisis. Scarcely a day goes by without some new revelation about the private life of one or other of the Royals splashed all over the tabloid newspapers, and public interest in the House of Windsor is more feverish and obsessive than ever. This is a comprehensive biography of the woman who has, for more than 40 years, been the British Head of State. Pimlott looks at the life of the Queen in the round: from the standpoint of the justly curious citizen, and from that of the historian, sociologist and constitutional lawyer, arguing that the constitutional role of the Queen is subtly potent, and by no means merely decorative or symbolic. The book attempts to provide some of the answers to the British fixation with the monarchy - as well as the Queen's relationships with her parents, husband and children.

• New

  Paperback
  1997

  $33.63

  There will be no better biography of Elizabeth II as a figure of state until her official one appears-and perhaps not even then. -The Independent. One of the many merits of Ben Pimlott's superbly judicious biography of Elizabeth II is that it understands this connection between monarchy and masses, and carefully evokes its political importance. -The New York Times Book Review. The best all-around study of the Queen so far, showing understanding as well as amused irony. -Sunday Telegraph. Written by Ben Pimlott, considered Britain's most respected political biographer, The Queen brings us the most authentic life yet of the reigning monarch. For the first time, Buckingham Place opened its doors and those closest to the queen provided compelling new information into Elizabeth's life and reign. New sources include the unpublished diaries of Jock Colville, public secretary to both Churchill and Elizabeth, as well as interviews with Princess Margaret, Archbishop of Canterbury Lord Runcie, and longtime private secretary Lord Charteris. Ben Pimlott (London, England) is a professor of politics and contemporary history at Birkbeck College, University of London. He is also the author of Hugh Dalton and Harold Wilson.