Synopses & Reviews
With its prime focus on the human factor in history, this book examines the role of foolishness in the unfolding of major events in Britain, particularly invasions, from Caesar's expeditions to the Norman Conquest. Many historians believe that foolishness in a bygone age cannot be meaningfully assessed, but this book does not accept that view.
Review
“Every professor and teacher of English history should love this book, which includes exciting materials for numerous lectures, class discussions, and seminar essays. This is an extremely well written and thought-provoking exploration of the four times Britain was invaded--by the Romans, by the Saxons, by the Vikings, and by the Normans. Henshall must be a master educator, because he continually urges readers to challenge long-accepted explanations. Henshall does not offer deep, trailblazing scholarship but rather, truly meaningful history in a most attractive, thoroughly enjoyable manner. . . Highly recommended. All levels/libraries.” - CHOICE
Synopsis
Focusing on pivotal points in Early British History, this book examines the role of folly and fortune in major events in Britain from Caesar's expeditions to the Norman Conquest. By examining the foolishness in a bygone age, Henshall draws attention to how human behaviour - with all its erraticisms - has helped shape history.
Synopsis
This book examines the role of foolishness in the unfolding of major events in Britain--particularly invasions--from Caesar's expeditions to the Norman Conquest.
Table of Contents
List of Tables and Illustrations * Preface: About This Book * Introduction: Humans, History, Folly, and Fortune * The Roman Eagle Lands * The Coming of the Pagans * The Improbable Norman Conquest * So Just How Foolish or Fortunate Have We Been? * Appendix One: The Question of Arthur * Appendix Two: Timeline * Appendix Three: Chronology of Kings and Overlords of England from the Anglo-Saxon Advent to the Norman Conquest * Bibliography of References