Two new books on Early Medieval England. Quite apart from anything else, both are exquisite objects.

"The First Kingdom" - Britain in the Age of Arthur (Max Adams 2021)

Focuses on the two centuries after the end of the Western Roman Empire around 400AD. Explores the archeological, geographical and limited textual evidence for continuity and change in this period, and the emergence of new forms of political and social organisation in the post-Roman era. [LibraryCatalog]

"The Anglo-Saxons" - A History of the Beginnings of England (Marc Morris 2021)

Covers a longer period from the end of Roman Britain to the Norman Conquest of 1066AD. Draws on much recent scholarship, archeology and analysis, but also seeks to provide a coherent narrative for the era. The role of the church and religion, and state formation, are given prominence, as well as key individuals both ecclesiastical and royal. [LibraryCatalog]