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Age of Tyrants explores an obscure period in the history of the
British Isles often referred to as Sub-Roman Britain. Such a label
implies that social and cultural decline followed the end of Roman
imperial control. But Christopher Snyder shows that Britain developed
unique social, political, and religious institutions during this time.
Snyder's innovative approach involves analysis of both the written
and archaeological record. Looking at contemporary writers such
as Patrick and Gildas, he shows how the cultural and political landscape
was changing during this period. By the waning years of the Roman
Empire, Britain was earning a special reputation as a "province
fertile with tyrants." These tyrants dominate the historical accounts
of the fifth and sixth centuries and tell us much about the transition
from magisterial to monarchical power in Britain.
Combining this with what we know from archaeology, Snyder reveals
a society that was a hybrid of indigenous (Celtic), Mediterranean
(Roman), and Christian elements that preceded the coming of the
Anglo-Saxons. An appendix explores how Arthur and Merlin fit into
this picture. Snyder's other important findings include:
- The military arrangements of the Britons owed much to both Roman
and Celtic inspiration.
- The spread of Christianity (and especially monasticism) after
400 was swift and unhindered by paganism.
- The economy of Britain was not completely coinless and, indeed,
was seemingly vigorous with the revival of trade with Gaul and
the Mediterranean.
- The growing cultural antagonism between the Britons and the
Saxons would have far-reaching consequences.
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