Pioneering examination of the Old English version of Bede's Historia ecclesiastica and its reception in the middle ages, from a theoretically informed, multi-disciplinary perspective. The first full-length study of the Old English version of Bede's masterwork, dealing with one of the most important texts to survive from Anglo-Saxon England. The subjects treated range from a detailed analysis of the manuscriptsand the medieval use of them to a very satisfying conclusion that summarizes all the major issues related to the work, giving a compelling summary of the value and importance of this independent creation. Dr Rowley convincingly argues that the Old English version is not an inferior imitation of Bede's work, but represents an intelligent reworking of the text for a later generation. An exhaustive study and a major scholarly contribution. GEORGE HARDIN BROWN, Professor of English emeritus, Stanford University. The Old English version of Bede's Historia ecclesiastica gentis anglorum is one of the earliest and most substantial surviving works of Old English prose. Translated anonymously around the end of the ninth or beginning of the tenth century, the text, which is substantially shorter than Bede's original, was well known and actively used in medieval England, and was highly influential.However, despite its importance, it has been little studied. In this first book on the subject, the author places the work in its manuscript context, arguing that the text was an independent, ecclesiastical translation, thoughtfully revised for its new audience. Rather than looking back on the age of Bede from the perspective of a king centralizing power and building a community by recalling a glorious English past, the Old English version of Bede's Historia transforms its source to focus on local history, key Anglo-Saxon saints, and their miracles. The author argues that its reading reflects an ecclesiastical setting more than a political one, with uses more hagiographical than royal; and that rather than being used as a class-book or crib, it functioned as a resource for vernacular preaching, as a corpus of vernacular saints' lives, for oral performance, and episcopal authority. Sharon M. Rowley is Associate Professor of English at Christopher Newport University.

Did King Alfred the Great commission the Old English translation of Bede’s Historia Ecclesiastica Gentis Anglorum, probably the masterpiece of medieval Anglo-Latin Literature, as part of his famous program of translation to educate the Anglo-Saxons? Was the Old English Historia, by any chance, a political and religious manifesto for the emerging ‘Kingdom of the Anglo-Saxons’? Do we deal with the literary cornerstone of a nascent English identity at a time when the Anglo-Saxon kingdoms were threatened by a common enemy: the Vikings? Andreas Lemke seeks to answer these questions – among others – in his recent publication. He presents us with a unique compendium of interdisciplinary approaches to the subject and sheds new light on the Old English translation of the Historia in a way that will fascinate scholars of Literature, Language, Philology and History.

Bede's Ecclesiastical History of England, a seminal work by Saint the Venerable Bede, is a cornerstone of English historical literature. Written in the 8th century, this remarkable chronicle provides a comprehensive account of the early history of Christianity in England and the development of its church. Bede’s meticulous research and eloquent prose bring to life the trials and triumphs of the early English church. What insights can we gain about faith and society from this historical masterpiece? As readers journey through the pages, they will encounter influential figures, significant events, and the rich tapestry of culture that shaped early England. Bede's Ecclesiastical History of England is celebrated for its scholarly rigor and narrative depth. Bede’s unique perspective as a monk and historian provides invaluable insights into the intersection of religion, politics, and daily life during a transformative period in English history. His work not only preserves the past but also offers timeless reflections on faith, morality, and human endeavor. Readers are drawn to Bede's Ecclesiastical History of England for its importance in understanding the foundations of English identity and Christianity. This book is essential for historians, theologians, and anyone interested in the roots of modern society, revealing how the threads of history connect us to our spiritual and cultural heritage. Don't miss the chance to explore this monumental work that has shaped centuries of thought. Secure your copy of Bede's Ecclesiastical History of England today, and delve into the captivating stories that illuminate the journey of faith in England!