Finis Britanniae

This article is from Current Archaeology issue 417

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REVIEW BY RP

This book takes on a challenging and complex period of British history, beginning with the political upheaval of the 3rd century, and ending with the arrival of St Augustine in 597. The long, entangled tale of emperors, generals, prefects, and other notable figures leading to the end of Roman rule and the start of the Saxon period in Britain may be intimidating to general readership. However, Dahm makes a strong effort to present this story as clearly as possible through the lens of the primary material (while not shying away from the pitfalls of less-than-reliable ancient authors). Dahm’s military historian background shines through each page, with accounts of battles making up the largest portion of the narrative. Archaeology is interspersed with textual sources, and used to challenge them. Dahm has taken on a topic that many avoid, due to its enigmatic nature, and has begun to provide a small touch of clarity to a dark and convoluted period.

Finis Britanniae
Murray Dahm
Amberley, £20.99
ISBN 978-1398118270