London Before the Conquest

by W. R. (William Richard) Lethaby

"London Before the Conquest" by W. R. Lethaby is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The work explores the ancient topography of London, delving into its origins, legends, and the evolution of its infrastructure from the Roman period through the early Saxon era. Lethaby aims to provide a comprehensive survey of the city's historical context, examining previous misunderstandings and offering critical insights into its development. At the start of the book, Lethaby establishes the uniqueness of London's historical narrative, noting a lack of comprehensive studies of its ancient layout. He explores the name "London," tracing its Roman and Celtic roots while referencing various historical theories about its foundation. The opening also discusses the legend of London’s founding, presenting various traditional accounts and critiquing them against archaeological and historical records. Through this initial analysis, Lethaby sets the foundation for a deeper exploration of London's structure, roads, and the prominent figures associated with its early history.