The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle By: Unknown
The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle is a remarkable historical document that offers a unique perspective into the early medieval period in England. Compiled by numerous anonymous writers, it provides a comprehensive account of significant events from the fifth to the twelfth centuries. Although the original manuscript has been lost, several extant versions exist, each with its own distinct style and content. What makes this chronicle invaluable to historians and scholars alike is its meticulous recording of Anglo-Saxon England's major political, social, and religious developments. The entries cover a wide range of topics, including the reigns of kings and queens, battles, alliances, laws, and even natural calamities. By delving into the many versions, one can witness the evolution of the chronicle across time, gaining insights into the shifting perspectives of its writers. One of the most striking aspects of The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle is its dedication to accuracy and attention to detail. The unknown authors painstakingly collected information from various sources, including oral traditions, official records, and even firsthand accounts. This commitment to gathering reliable accounts makes the chronicle an essential historical source for understanding the Anglo-Saxon era. Moreover, the chronicle's narrative style is both engaging and accessible, even to readers with limited knowledge of the period. The concise entries provide a chronological framework within which the events unfold, enabling readers to follow the ebb and flow of Anglo-Saxon history effortlessly. The inclusion of genealogical charts and supplementary materials further aids in comprehending the complex web of royal successions and lineages. However, it is essential to note that The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle has its limitations, chiefly the bias of its writers. Although they aimed to present an impartial account, their perspectives unavoidably shaped their interpretations of events. Furthermore, certain periods, such as the Viking invasions, receive more attention than others, reflecting the immediate concerns and priorities of the writers. Overall, The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle is an indispensable source for historians, providing an invaluable glimpse into a crucial period of England's past. Its meticulous recording of events, accessible style, and inclusion of supplementary materials make it a worthwhile read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of early medieval England. Despite its limitations, this chronicle undoubtedly holds its place amongst the canon of historical texts, shedding light on a bygone era that continues to captivate modern audiences. First Page: The Anglo Saxon Chronicle Originally compiled on the orders of King Alfred the Great, approximately A.D. 890, and subsequently maintained and added to by generations of anonymous scribes until the middle of the 12th Century. The original language is Anglo Saxon (Old English), but later entries are essentially Middle English in tone. Translation by Rev. James Ingram (London, 1823), with additional readings from the translation of Dr. J.A. Giles (London, 1847). PREPARER'S NOTE: At present there are nine known versions or fragments of the "Anglo Saxon Chronicle" in existence, all of which vary (sometimes greatly) in content and quality. The translation that follows is not a translation of any one Chronicle; rather, it is a collation of readings from many different versions. The nine known "Anglo Saxon Chronicle" MS. are the following: A Prime The Parker Chronicle (Corpus Christi College, Cambridge, MS. 173) A Cottonian Fragment (British Museum, Cotton MS. Otho B xi, 2) B The Abingdon Chronicle I (British Museum, Cotton MS. Tiberius A vi.) C The Abingdon Chronicle II (British Museum, Cotton MS. Tiberius B i.) D The Worcester Chronicle (British Museum, Cotton MS... Continue reading book >>

The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle By: Unknown

The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle is a remarkable historical document that offers a unique perspective into the early medieval period in England. Compiled by numerous anonymous writers, it provides a comprehensive account of significant events from the fifth to the twelfth centuries. Although the original manuscript has been lost, several extant versions exist, each with its own distinct style and content.

What makes this chronicle invaluable to historians and scholars alike is its meticulous recording of Anglo-Saxon England's major political, social, and religious developments. The entries cover a wide range of topics, including the reigns of kings and queens, battles, alliances, laws, and even natural calamities. By delving into the many versions, one can witness the evolution of the chronicle across time, gaining insights into the shifting perspectives of its writers.

One of the most striking aspects of The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle is its dedication to accuracy and attention to detail. The unknown authors painstakingly collected information from various sources, including oral traditions, official records, and even firsthand accounts. This commitment to gathering reliable accounts makes the chronicle an essential historical source for understanding the Anglo-Saxon era.

Moreover, the chronicle's narrative style is both engaging and accessible, even to readers with limited knowledge of the period. The concise entries provide a chronological framework within which the events unfold, enabling readers to follow the ebb and flow of Anglo-Saxon history effortlessly. The inclusion of genealogical charts and supplementary materials further aids in comprehending the complex web of royal successions and lineages.

However, it is essential to note that The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle has its limitations, chiefly the bias of its writers. Although they aimed to present an impartial account, their perspectives unavoidably shaped their interpretations of events. Furthermore, certain periods, such as the Viking invasions, receive more attention than others, reflecting the immediate concerns and priorities of the writers.

Overall, The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle is an indispensable source for historians, providing an invaluable glimpse into a crucial period of England's past. Its meticulous recording of events, accessible style, and inclusion of supplementary materials make it a worthwhile read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of early medieval England. Despite its limitations, this chronicle undoubtedly holds its place amongst the canon of historical texts, shedding light on a bygone era that continues to captivate modern audiences.

First Page:

The Anglo Saxon Chronicle

Originally compiled on the orders of King Alfred the Great, approximately A.D. 890, and subsequently maintained and added to by generations of anonymous scribes until the middle of the 12th Century. The original language is Anglo Saxon (Old English), but later entries are essentially Middle English in tone.

Translation by Rev. James Ingram (London, 1823), with additional readings from the translation of Dr. J.A. Giles (London, 1847).

PREPARER'S NOTE:

At present there are nine known versions or fragments of the "Anglo Saxon Chronicle" in existence, all of which vary (sometimes greatly) in content and quality. The translation that follows is not a translation of any one Chronicle; rather, it is a collation of readings from many different versions.

The nine known "Anglo Saxon Chronicle" MS. are the following:

A Prime The Parker Chronicle (Corpus Christi College, Cambridge, MS. 173) A Cottonian Fragment (British Museum, Cotton MS. Otho B xi, 2) B The Abingdon Chronicle I (British Museum, Cotton MS. Tiberius A vi.) C The Abingdon Chronicle II (British Museum, Cotton MS. Tiberius B i.) D The Worcester Chronicle (British Museum, Cotton MS... Continue reading book >>

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