For me, this book proved to be something of a mixed bag. For a start, its sub-title – Power, Passion and Politics in Anglo-Saxon England – gives a much more accurate description of what the book is actually about. I know that the author is passionate about her subject; I have enjoyed her work on TV. But it is that very passion that hangs rather awkwardly over this book.
What it is, is a rather good assessment of the development of the church in England (with nods to the rest of the British Isles where necessary) and an investigation of the wider society around it. Using the life and times of a dozen saints as the bones of this analysis, she shows how these important figures both guided and were influenced by their times.
What it isn’t, is anything about the private lives of the saints. At this distance, we know virtually nothing about the real figures behind these saints. Most were used by their adherents and supporters for political or religious purposes within a few years of their death. Hagiography abounded, and what little information we do have is highly suspect.
It is an enjoyable read, with much of interest about a little understood (and much misunderstood) period. But it is made somewhat hard-going by an illogical structure and some repetition. It would have really benefitted from the employment of a good editor to sort this out (as well as a proof-reader).
This is a review of the W H Allen 2015 Kindle edition.
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