British Civilization: An Introduction - Tapa dura

‘This is an excellent core course book, suitable for both native and non-native speakers of English alike. It is well written and provides up-to-date coverage of a wide range of topics.’

Howard Jopp, University of Hull 

'The balance between the width and depth of Civilization analysis makes this an excellent textbook for students at the introductory level of the field. John Oakland covers a wide range of topics without becoming bogged down in details and while preserving the complexities of British Civilization issues and debates.'

Ane Vikaune, NTNU

‘Oakland’s British Civilization not only provides an historical overview, but also an in-depth insight into the issues and debates encountered when studying Britain, its institutions and people.

For those who are fascinated by Britain, this is a book not to be missed; for those who aren’t, this book will certainly change your mind.’

Li-Jiuan Lilie Tsay, Ming-Chuan University

'A highly-readable exploration of British culture, media and the arts. The updated edition examines areas other books on the subject fail to address and the exercises at the end of each chapter are current and thought-provoking. This would be a valuable addition to the bookshelf for all undergraduates of the field.'

Russell Clark, Keele University

 Reviews of the previous editions:

‘John Oakland is the doyen of civilization studies.’

British Studies Now

‘This is a first rate, lucidly written text.’

G.E.C. Paton, Aston University

‘Suitable above all because it covers so many areas of contemporary institutions ... a useful reference work.’

Patrick Leech, University of Bologna

‘Strikes a balance between providing up-to-date information and being a source of general reference.’

Anne K. Bjørge, Norwegian School of Economics and Business Administration

‘An excellent presentation of the British economic and political/institutional system.’

J. Condriou, Université de Provence

‘A perfect tool and source for class activities.’

Borek Sousedik, Tobos ELTR, Czech Republic

'It is an attractive work, at a modest price by a respected retired university lecturer and author' – Historical Association

Reviews of the previous editions:

‘John Oakland is the doyen of civilization studies.’

British Studies Now

‘This is a first rate, lucidly written text.’

G.E.C. Paton, Aston University

‘Suitable above all because it covers so many areas of contemporary institutions ... a useful reference work.’

Patrick Leech, University of Bologna

‘Strikes a balance between providing up-to-date information and being a source of general reference.’

Anne K. Bjørge, Norwegian School of Economics and Business Administration

‘An excellent presentation of the British economic and political/institutional system.’

J. Condriou, Université de Provence

‘A perfect tool and source for class activities.’

Borek Sousedik, Tobos ELTR, Czech Republic

The seventh edition of this highly-praised textbook has been substantially updated and revised to provide students of British studies with the perfect introduction to Britain, its country and people, politics and government, education, economy, media, arts and religion. It includes:

• discussion of recent developments and areas of topical interest in British society such as immigration, the recession, devolution and Britain’s relationships with the US and the EU, and coverage of the 2010 election
• new full colour illustrations
• exercises and questions to stimulate class discussion
• insights into the attitudes of British people today towards important issues
• updated suggestions for further reading and useful websites
• a fully updated companion website featuring further exercises, links to relevant articles and videos online, and quiz questions.

British Civilization is a vital introduction to the crucial and complex identities of Britain.

For supplementary exercises, questions and tutor guidance, go to