Author
John Mitchell Kemble
1807-1857
John Mitchell Kemble (1807-1857) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaBooks by John Mitchell Kemble
The Saxons in England, Volume 1 (of 2) A history of the English commonwealth till the period of the Norman conquest
"The Saxons in England, Volume 1 (of 2)" by John Mitchell Kemble is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. The work explores the political and social principles that characterized the early English Commonwealth, particularly tracing its developments leading up to the Norman Conquest. Kemble aims to reveal the foundational laws and customs of the Anglo-Saxon forefathers, emphasizing their significance for contemporary society. The opening of the book sets the stage for a detailed exploration of Saxon history, detailing the traditions of the Saxons and their interactions with the native Britons. It discusses the initial settlement of the Anglo-Saxon tribes around the middle of the fifth century, highlighting key figures such as Hengest and the varied narratives surrounding these early invasions. Kemble critiques the historical accounts of the time, suggesting that many are steeped in myth rather than fact, and highlights the need for a critical examination of the traditions versus concrete historical evidence. He emphasizes the importance of this early history in understanding the development of English law and society that continues to influence contemporary governance.
The Saxons in England, Volume 2 (of 2) A history of the English commonwealth till the period of the Norman conquest
"The Saxons in England, Volume 2" by John Mitchell Kemble is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This work delves into the historical development of the Anglo-Saxon period, focusing on the consolidation of power and the introduction of Christianity in England. It articulates the complex transformation of societal norms and governance up until the Norman Conquest, making it a valuable resource for those interested in English history and its political evolution. The opening of this volume establishes the context for the discussion by referencing the obscurantism surrounding early Anglo-Saxon history due to scarce contemporary records. Kemble contrasts this with the more extensive historical materials available for the later periods, asserting that the book will explore how the Anglo-Saxon institutions evolved through various compromises and adaptations. Specifically, he introduces two central themes: the growth of the kingly power and the integration of Christianity, framing them as critical to understanding the political landscape of England during the era. The beginning hints at an intricate examination of the power dynamics among various kingdoms, a topic that lays the groundwork for the detailed chapters that follow in this comprehensive historical narrative.