William of Newburgh: The History of English Affairs, Book 1

The History of English Affairs, covering the years 10661198, was written at the close of the twelfth century and has been described as being both in substance and in form …the finest historical work left to us by an Englishman of the twelfth century (The Dictionary of National Biography). The author’s critical ability, gifts of acute observation, clear judgment and tolerant impartiality justify his high reputation as an original authority.Book One contains a summary treatment of the period 10661135 (the Norman Conquest to the death of Henry I), followed by an extensive exposition of the political, military and religious events of the reign of Stephen (113554), including the Second Crusade and events in Scotland.William’s Latin is spare and elegant. At University level, this is the ideal text for students of medieval history seeking original source material and for students in Classical departments looking for a combination of interesting content and manageable Latin. Schools will find it a helpful aid to increase fluency in reading Latin and develop a knowledge of English history.