![Book Cover of On the Ruin of Britain](/image/book/on-the-ruin-of-britain.webp)
On the Ruin of Britain
by Gildas
'On the Ruin of Britain' Summary
On the Ruin of Britain by Gildas is an influential historical text that details the decline of Britain in the post-Roman era. Written by the British monk Gildas in the 6th century AD, the book offers a firsthand account of the political, social, and religious landscape of the time, and offers a scathing critique of the leaders and society of Britain at that time.
The book is structured as an open letter to several British leaders, including Constantine of Dumnonia, Aurelius Conanus, and Vortiporius, and begins with an overview of the history of Britain up to the author's own time. Gildas then describes a series of moral failings that he believed were responsible for Britain's decline, including greed, corruption, and a lack of Christian piety. He also condemns the British leaders of his time for their incompetence and unwillingness to defend their country against outside invaders, such as the Saxons.
On the Ruin of Britain is an important primary source for scholars studying the early history of Britain. It provides a rare glimpse into the cultural and political climate of the time, and offers insight into the mindset of the people who lived through this tumultuous period. The book is also notable for its vivid descriptions of the battles and skirmishes that took place between the various British factions, and for its critique of the Church's role in society.
Despite being written over a millennium ago, On the Ruin of Britain remains relevant today, as its themes of political corruption and societal decline continue to resonate with modern readers. It has been translated into many languages and has influenced the work of countless historians and scholars over the centuries.
In summary, On the Ruin of Britain by Gildas is a significant historical text that provides valuable insight into the political, social, and religious climate of Britain in the 6th century AD. Its enduring relevance and continued impact on the study of British history make it a must-read for anyone interested in the subject.
Book Details
Language
EnglishOriginal Language
LatinPublished In
6th CenturyAuthor
![Gildas image](/thumbs/image/author/gildas.webp)
Gildas
British
Gildas was a 6th-century British monk and historian who is best known for his literary works, including "The Ruin of Britain" and "De Excidio et Conquestu Britanniae." His writings are some of the ear...
More on GildasDownload eBooks
Listen/Download Audiobook
- Select Speed
Related books
![The Chronicles of America Volume 07 - Dutch and English on the Hudson Cover image](/thumbs/image/book/the-chronicles-of-america-volume-07-dutch-and-english-on-the-hudson.webp)
The Chronicles of America Volume 07 - Dutch and English on the Hudson by Maud Wilder Goodwin
"Amidst the majestic Hudson River, an enthralling tale of cultural clash and historic rivalry unfolds. Discover the captivating saga of 'Dutch and Eng...
![Chronicles of Canada Volume 10 - A Chronicle of Montcalm Cover image](/thumbs/image/book/chronicles-of-canada-volume-10-a-chronicle-of-montcalm.webp)
Chronicles of Canada Volume 10 - A Chronicle of Montcalm by William Charles Henry Wood
Montcalm is, of course, a very prominent character in every history of New France. This book gives a brief history of the Montcalm family in France an...
![Brave Men and Women: Their Struggles, Failures, And Triumphs Cover image](/thumbs/image/book/brave-men-and-women-their-struggles-failures-and-triumphs.webp)
Brave Men and Women: Their Struggles, Failures, And Triumphs by Osgood E. Fuller
This book provides a glimpse into the lives of ordinary men and women who have overcome incredible obstacles to achieve greatness. Fuller's writing s...
![The Normans in Europe Cover image](/thumbs/image/book/the-normans-in-europe.webp)
The Normans in Europe by Arthur Henry Johnson
It is a comprehensive exploration of the Normans and their impact on Europe during the medieval period. Johnson's work delves into the origins of the...
![Historical Sketches of the Catholic Church in Oregon, During the Past Forty Years Cover image](/thumbs/image/book/historical-sketches-of-the-catholic-church-in-oregon-during-the-past-forty-years.webp)
Historical Sketches of the Catholic Church in Oregon, During the Past Forty Years by François Norbert Blanchet
This book is a first-hand account of the experiences of Fr. Norbert Blanchet and his fellow missionaries to Oregon in the 1830’s and 1840’s. The origi...
![History of England from the Invasion of Julius Caesar to the Revolution of 1688, Volume 1E Cover image](/thumbs/image/book/history-of-england-from-the-invasion-of-julius-caesar-to-the-revolution-of-1688-volume-1e.webp)
History of England from the Invasion of Julius Caesar to the Revolution of 1688, Volume 1E by David Hume
This is Volume 1E which covers the reign of Charles I and the Commonwealth. The History of England is David Hume's great work on the history of Engl...
![Knickerbocker's History of New York, Vol. 2 Cover image](/thumbs/image/book/knickerbockers-history-of-new-york-vol-2.webp)
Knickerbocker's History of New York, Vol. 2 by Washington Irving
A History of New York, subtitled From the Beginning of the World to the End of the Dutch Dynasty, is an 1809 literary parody on the history of New Yor...
![The Wives of Henry the Eighth and the Parts They Played in History Cover image](/thumbs/image/book/the-wives-of-henry-the-eighth-and-the-parts-they-played-in-history.webp)
The Wives of Henry the Eighth and the Parts They Played in History by Martin A. S. Hume
It is a historical account of the six wives of King Henry VIII of England. The book details the lives and events of these women and how they shaped th...
![The Ladies' Book of Etiquette, and Manual of Politeness Cover image](/thumbs/image/book/the-ladies-book-of-etiquette-and-manual-of-politeness.webp)
The Ladies' Book of Etiquette, and Manual of Politeness by Florence Hartley
A guide for ladies, written in 1860, on what is accepted as correct behavior in polite society. The advice covers dress, travelling, staying in hotels...
![Mark Twain: A Biography - Volume 1 Cover image](/thumbs/image/book/mark-twain-a-biography-volume-1.webp)
Mark Twain: A Biography - Volume 1 by Albert Bigelow Pain
In the realm of literary giants, one figure stands as a beacon of wit, wisdom, and irreverence—Mark Twain. Now, in this compelling biography, venture...
Reviews for On the Ruin of Britain
No reviews posted or approved, yet...