With over 45,000 recognized examples, the ringfort is the most common field monument in Ireland. Stout's discussion makes it clear than most of these sites were constructed and occupied during the Early Christian period, roughly 600-900 CE. In well-illustrated chapters on Morphology, Chronology, Function, Economy, Environment, Distribution, and Early Christian Settlement and Society he explores the evidence, and demonstrates the close correspondence of the physical sites to those parts of the early Irish laws which describe the status and property of the various grades of Lords and free farmers.

Recommended for those interested in early Irish archaeology, law, and society in general. ( )