A full and accessibly-written survey of Bede and his works, including a
chapter on his legacy for subsequent history.
The Venerable Bede is a crucial figure for Anglo-Saxonists, arguably the
most important, known character from the period. A scholar of
international standing from an early period of the Anglo-Saxon church
[c.672-732], he was the author not only of the well-known
Ecclesiastical History of the English People, but also of scriptural
commentaries, hagiographies, scientific works, admonitory letters, and
poetry. This book provides an informative, comprehensive, and up-to-date
guide to Bede and his writings, underlining in particular his importance
in the development of European history and culture. It places Bede in
his contemporary Northumbria and early Anglo-Saxon England, dedicates
individual chapters to his works, and includes a chapter on Bede's
legacy for subsequent history.
GEORGE HARDIN BROWN is Professor of English emeritus, Stanford
University.