"MacKenzie explores both continuity and change in the presentation of a wartime event that acquired and retains near-mythical dimensions in popular consciousness and has been represented many times in feature films and television dramas. Alongside relevant technical developments, the book also examines the social, cultural, and political changes occurring in the second half of the 20th century and first decade of current century that helped shape how the battle came to be framed dramatically."--Provided by publisher.

The battle foretold : the lion has wings (1939) -- Spitfire of dreams : the first of the few (1942) -- One for all : angels one five (1952) -- All for one : reach for the sky (1956) -- The big picture : Battle of Britain (1969) -- Catalogue of error : piece of cake (1988) -- The fighter boys : a perfect hero (1991) -- War of nerves : first light (2010) -- Conclusion.