Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #16886 in Books
• Published on: 1991-05-01
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 400 pages

Customer Reviews

An extraordinary book
Bede's marvellous history of England from the invasion of Julius Caesar up until his own time (the early 8th century) is one of the most fascinating books I have ever read. The England of Bede's day was an amazing place, full of kings and saints and miracles. Remarkable things happen in every chapter. Scenes from history are brought vividly to life, the invasion of Britain, the martyrdom of St Alban, the Anglo-Saxon slave children with their 'angelic' faces. The women who appear in the book are all courageous and gifted, Christian Queens converting their Pagan husbands, female saints performing miracles, powerful Abbesses ruling communities of men and women. What a thrilling age it was, and how dull and colourless our own time seems by comparison.

Historians Legacy
A few years ago, I had the chance to go to Durham Cathedral. As an American medievalist with a love of the Anglo-Saxon era I jumped at the chance. I had a chance there to see not only the resting place of Saint Cuthbert, but also The Vernerable Bede.

The Venerable Bede -- this is not a name, only an office. What his actual name was we will probably never know, but that is less important than the historical narrative he has left us. Having in mind to write a history of the English peoples, he goes on to write a work filled with wonders, colourful characters, foul villains, and ever and ever again, miracles.

The Bede was an ecclesiast and saw all of history filtered through the glass of the Church. Yet somehow he does not come off as "preachy" as many other historians of the time. Maybe it is because of his deft characterizations, maybe his succinct view of the seemingly necessary course of history, but in any case I find myself caught up in a well-told tale, with morals attached.

By modern terms the Bede's work is one-sided and biased, and yet if you wish a true window into a world, it is best to have a guide. The Bede gives us such a window, however imperfect, yet carefully and thoughtfully written. To understand the northern English kingdoms of the early Middle Ages, one must consult the Bede; luckily, he is also a sympathetic fellow and draws us in, gently and knowingly, and offers us historical truths (especially close to his own time) as well as small sermons.

A great overview of early English History
I found this book wonderful as a broad overview of early England. The reader must keep in mind the social and religous beliefs of the author and of the times. I liked the broad brush the author uses to describe the people and climate of the time. A very enjoyable read....