The contributors focus on texts most commonly read in introductory Old English courses while also engaging with larger issues of Anglo-Saxon history, culture, and scholarship. Their approaches vary widely, encompassing disciplines from linguistics to psychoanalysis.In an appealing introduction to the book, R. M. Liuzza presents an overview of Old English studies, the history of the scholarship, and major critical themes in the field. For both newcomers and more advanced scholars of Old English, these essays will provoke discussion, answer questions, provide background, and inspire an appreciation for the complexity and energy of Anglo-Saxon studies.

    8 Abbesses, Minor Dynasties and Kings in clericatu: Perspectives of Ireland, 700-850 --9 Carolingian Contacts --Part III: The Material Culture of Mercia --10 The Archaeology of Mercia --11 Mercia: Landscape and Environment --12 Mercians: The Dwellers on the Boundary --13 The Growth of Market Centres and Towns in the Area of the Mercian Hegemony --14 Mercian London --15 Mercian Coinage and Authority --Part IV: The Visual Culture of Mercia --16 Constructing Iconographies: Questions of Identity in Mercian Sculpture --17 Classicism of Southumbrian Sculpture.18 Metalwork of the Mercian Supremacy --19 Mercian Manuscripts? The Tiberius' Group and Its Historical Context --Part V: Mercia in Retreat --20 Military Institutions and Royal Power --21 Mercia and Wessex in the Ninth Century

     Brings together specially-commissioned contributions from a team of leading European and American scholars. Embraces both the literature and the cultural background of the period. Combines the discussion of primary material and manuscript sources with critical analysis and readings. Considers the past, present and future of Anglo-Saxon studies

    It includes all those who held office between the death of Eadward III (January 1066) and the abdication of Eadgar II (December 1066). There are 455 individuals in the main entries and these have been divided according to their office or position. * Four types of information are listed where possible. * What is know of their life * Their land wealth * The early sources in which information about the individual can be found * Modern references that gives details about his or her life. A series of appendices provide detailed information about particular topics of groups of people.