This volume investigates the evolution of the British coronation ceremony from the eighth century to the present day, questioning how the ritual has adapted to shifting political, religious, and cultural landscapes. Sir Roy Strong, a distinguished historian and former director of the Victoria and Albert Museum, utilizes his expertise in art and cultural history to synthesize centuries of archival material. He examines the intersection of state power and liturgical tradition, arguing that the coronation serves as a vital mirror for the changing identity of the British monarchy. The work draws upon a vast array of primary sources, including illuminated manuscripts, musical scores, and visual media, to construct a comprehensive historical framework.

This work is regarded as a definitive, scholarly examination of the British coronation, praised for its meticulous research and interdisciplinary approach. The text provides a dense, authoritative account that serves as a primary reference for historians and enthusiasts of royal history alike.