Oxford History of England The English Settlements

The dark ages of English history between the collapse of Roman rule in the early fifth century and the emergence of the Anglo-Saxon kingdoms in the seventh century are examined in this study, which draws attention to political and social factors linking Roman Britain to Anglo-Saxon England. The English Settlements is a masterly account of the Dark Ages in the light of evidence from literary sources, the relevant archaeological remains both in England and on the Continent, and place-names and other linguistic developments. J. N. L. Myres draws attention to some little-understood factors which seem to link Roman Britain with Anglo-Saxon England, and so suggests strands of political and social continuity which aid our understanding of this particularly complex and traumatic period of our history. 'He is the foremost authority on the subject and presents a fascinating concentration of evidence, much of which remains enigmatic' Anthony Powell 'Our Dark Age is still murky This learned book is the best introductory torch available' The Times 'Let us salute the author with congratulations on the achievement of this interpretation of a remarkable lifetime's work.' TLS