Subject
Britons Books
Best books
T. Rice (Thomas Rice) Holmes
Ancient Britain and the Invasions of Julius Caesar
"Ancient Britain and the Invasions of Julius Caesar" by T. Rice Holmes is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This work delves into the prehistoric culture of Britain and the subsequent invasions by Julius Caesar, painting a picture of the life and development of early British society leading up to Roman influence. The author aims to enrich our understanding of the social and cultural transitions that occurred in Britain before the Roman conquests. The opening of the book introduces the complexity of reconstructing Britain's prehistory, emphasizing the challenges posed by the limited available written records. It details Julius Caesar's initial inquiries into Britain and the scant knowledge he acquired about its peoples, tribes, and customs. The author explains the rich archaeological evidence that exists to tell the story of early British life, offering insights into a variety of subjects, from prehistoric artifacts to the evolution of culture through time. Holmes highlights the importance of this archaeological framework for understanding the influence of early invasions on the island.
active 796 Nennius
History of the Britons (Historia Brittonum)
"History of the Britons (Historia Brittonum)" by Nennius is a historical account written in the early medieval period, specifically during the late 8th century. The book primarily discusses the history and origins of the Britons, including their interactions with other groups such as the Saxons, Scots, and Picts. It serves as an essential source for understanding early British history and the cultural and political landscape of Britain following the Roman withdrawal. In this work, Nennius presents a mixture of myth, tradition, and historical accounts, outlining the arrival of various peoples in Britain, particularly focusing on the Britons' legendary ancestor, Brutus of Troy. The narrative includes significant figures such as King Arthur and various battles against invading forces, notably the Saxons. Nennius aims to preserve the history of his people amidst what he sees as a decline in their glorious past, attributing Britain's early governance and conflicts to divine providence while also highlighting the need for unity and piety in the face of external threats. His compilation draws from several sources, blending oral history with written records to craft a cohesive account of Britain's early narrative.
Recently surfaced classics