Early Medieval Britain, c. 500–1000 (Cambridge History of Britain, Series Number 1)
Cambridge University Press
Edition: New, 7/15/2021
EAN 9781108440257, ISBN10: 1108440258
Paperback, 492 pages, 25.4 x 17.8 x 2.8 cm
Language: English
Originally published in English
Early medieval Britain saw the birth of England, Scotland and of the Welsh kingdoms. Naismith's introductory textbook explores the period between the end of Roman rule and the eve of the Norman Conquest, blending an engaging narrative with clear explanations of key themes and sources. Using extensive illustrations, maps and selections from primary sources, students will examine the island as a collective entity, comparing political histories and institutions as well as societies, beliefs and economies. Each chapter foregrounds questions of identity and the meaning of 'Britain' in this period, encouraging interrogation and contextualisation of sources within the framework of the latest debates and problems. Featuring online resources including timelines, a glossary, end-of-chapter questions and suggestions for further reading, students can drive their own understanding of how the polities and societies of early medieval Britain fitted together and into the wider world, and firmly grasp the formative stages of British history.
Preface and Acknowledgements
List of Source Boxes
List of Methods and Analysis Boxes
List of Illustrations
List of Maps
1. Introduction
Part I. Conceiving Early Medieval Britain
2. An Island in the Ocean
The Idea of Britain
3. On the Edge of the World
Britain and Europe
4. Legend, Myth and History
5. Migrations and Peoples
6. Fragments of the Past
Part II. Making Early Medieval Britain
7. Britain c. 500
8. 'Fertile of Tyrants'
Britain 500–650
9. 'What the Outcome Will Be, a Future Age Will See'
Britain 650–850
10. 'God Help Us!'
Britain 850–1000
Part III. Living in Early Medieval Britain
11. Kingship in Action
12. Building a Christian Society
13. Maintaining Belief
The Church as an Institution
14. Family, Friend, Lord, Slave
The Basis of Society
15. Land, People and Settlement
16. Getting and Giving
Acts and Settings of Exchange
17. Language and Communication
18. 'As Far as the Cold Waves Reach'
Conclusion
Glossary
Index.