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The end of Roman rule in Britain is not a niche topic: it is one that has been intensely studied for decades. And yet we still have so much to learn about how it unfolded and how much of a political vacuum it left in its wake. Contributing to this ongoing debate, in this book Henry methodically examines the typology, production, and distribution of five types of artefact – crossbow brooches, belt fittings, spurs, penannular brooches, and coins – and analyses how these variables changed between the 4th and 5th centuries. He argues that these objects can be used as proxies for Roman culture, revealing how social identity varied by region, and how it persisted or disappeared after the withdrawal of Roman authority from Britain.
This book serves as not only a comprehensive database for the most pervasive Roman objects, but also lays out a framework for how Britain transformed during the 5th century. It is essential reading for anyone interested in Roman material culture, as well as the ‘end’ of Roman Britain and its aftermath.
REVIEW BY KK
Fractured Britannia: the twilight of Roman Britain
Richard Henry
Archaeopress, £65, or free eBook
ISBN 978-1805832454
