Gone Medieval Rise of Northumbria
Apr 2, 2024
Historian and author Max Adams joins to discuss the fascinating rise of Northumbria - from the landscape and power dynamics to King Edwin's palace and the unification of the kingdom. They explore the strategies and identity of Northumbria, along with the legacy and martyrdom of Oswald in spreading Christianity.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Post-Roman Britain
- Britain's population declined substantially around 550 AD, possibly due to plagues.
- Immigration from continental Europe and Scandinavia continued, shaping the genetic makeup of the eastern coast.
Reinterpreting Dark Earth
- Dark earth in Roman towns, previously seen as a sign of abandonment, signifies a shift in power dynamics.
- It suggests emerging lordships, where powerful figures used these spaces to manage cattle and reward followers.
Rethinking Societal 'Failure'
- Modern perspectives often unfairly label societies without large cities or international trade as failures.
- Local control and reduced reliance on distant trade isn't inherently worse for individuals.