Chronicles (1 of 6): The Historie of England (4 of 8) The Fovrth Booke Of The Historie Of England   By: Raphael Holinshed (-1580?)

In "Chronicles (1 of 6): The Historie of England (4 of 8) The Fovrth Booke Of The Historie Of England," the fourth installment of Raphael Holinshed's influential historical work, readers are once again transported back to the vibrant and eventful world of early English history. Holinshed's meticulous research and detailed storytelling make this volume an indispensable resource for anyone eager to delve into the depths of England's past.

The Fovrth Booke continues to build upon the foundation laid by its predecessors, offering a comprehensive account of the British Isles from the reign of Ethelbert, the first Christian king of Kent, to the time of King Ethelred the Unready. The volume covers almost four centuries of tumultuous political and social developments, capturing not only the grandiose events that shaped the nation but also the lives of ordinary people who inhabited it.

Holinshed's skill as a chronicler is apparent throughout this volume, as he weaves together various primary sources, from annals and chronicles to poems and ballads, to create a multifaceted narrative of the past. This eclectic approach adds texture and depth to the storytelling, immersing the reader in a rich tapestry of history. Moreover, Holinshed's engaging prose keeps readers engrossed, rendering complex events and personalities accessible to both scholars and laymen.

One of the outstanding features of The Fovrth Booke is Holinshed's meticulous attention to detail. Whether describing intricate battles, diplomatic maneuvers, or societal customs, the author leaves no stone unturned, providing an unparalleled level of historical accuracy. However, this level of detail may overwhelm readers looking for a light and breezy read. It requires patience and perseverance to fully appreciate the wealth of information presented in this volume.

Despite the book's rigorous scholarship, occasional editorializing and moralizing can be found within the text. As a man of his time, Holinshed often interjects his personal opinions and biases into the narrative. While this might irk some modern readers, it offers an insight into the pervasive mindset of the era. These moments serve as reminders that the study of history is a subjective exploration, influenced by the lens through which it is observed.

Overall, "Chronicles (1 of 6): The Historie of England (4 of 8) The Fovrth Booke Of The Historie Of England" is an essential addition to any serious historian's library. Holinshed's meticulous research, engaging storytelling, and unparalleled attention to detail make this volume a valuable resource for understanding the complexities of early English history. While it may not be suitable for casual readers seeking a light and entertaining read, those with a genuine thirst for knowledge and a love for the past will find themselves captivated by this masterful work.

First Page:

Now Plautius had much adoo to find out the Britains in their lurking holes and couerts; howbeit when he had traced them out, first he vanquished Cataratacus, and after Togodumnus the sonnes of Cynobellinus: for their father was dead not verie long before. These therefore fléeing their waies, Plautus receiued part of the people [Sidenote: Bodumni Catuellani] called Bodumni (which were subiects vnto them that were called Catuellani) into the obeisance of the Romans: and so leauing there a garrison of souldiors, passed further till he came to a riuer which could not well be passed without a bridge: wherevpon the Britains tooke small regard to defend the passage, as though they had béene sure inough. But Plautius appointed a certeine number of Germans which he had there with him (being vsed to swim ouer riuers although neuer so swift) to get ouer, which they did, sleaing and wounding the Britains horsses, which were fastened to their wagons or chariots, so that the Britains were not able to doo anie péece of their accustomed seruice with the same... Continue reading book >>