An Introduction to Anglo-Saxon England

by Peter Hunter Blair , Introduction by Simon Keynes

• ISBN13: 9780521537773
• ISBN10: 0521537770
• Edition: 3rd
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2003-08-25
• Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Summary

This is a lucid, authoritative and well-balanced account of Anglo-Saxon history. The third edition includes a new introduction by Simon Keynes. Between the end of the Roman occupation and the coming of the Normans, England was settled by Germanic races; the kingdom as a political unit was created, heathenism yielded to a vigorous Christian Church, superb works of art were made, and the English language - spoken and written - took its form. These origins of the English heritage are Hunter Blair's subject. The first two chapters survey Anglo-Saxon England: its wars, its invaders, its peoples and its kings. The remaining chapters deal with specific aspects of its culture: its Church, government, economy and literary achievement. Throughout the author uses illustrations and a wide range of sources - documents, archaeological evidence and place names - to illuminate the period as a whole. For this edition, Simon Keynes has prepared a thoroughly updated bibliography.

Author Biography

Peter Hunter Blair: Formerly Reader in Anglo-Saxon History in the University of Cambridge and Fellow of Emmanuel College

Table of Contents

List of illustrations

Preface to the third edition

Introduction: Changing perceptions of Anglo-Saxon history Simon Keynes

1. The foundations of England

2. Britain and the Vikings

3. The Church

4. Government

5. Economy

6. Letters

Select bibliography

Index.