The Private Lives of the Saints
Power, Passion and Politics in Anglo-Saxon England
Format:Paperback
Publisher:Ebury Publishing
Published:16th Feb '23
Should be back in stock very soon
This captivating book re-examines the lives of Anglo-Saxon saints, revealing their human complexities and the historical context of their time.
In The Private Lives of the Saints, Dr. Janina Ramirez, a bestselling author and esteemed historian, delves into the intriguing lives of Anglo-Saxon saints. Often seen as untouchable figures of veneration, these saints are re-examined with a fresh perspective that highlights their human qualities and the complexities of their lives. By peeling back the layers of myth and legend, Ramirez invites readers to consider the social and political contexts that shaped these influential figures.
This book goes beyond mere biography, offering a rich tapestry of the era's culture, beliefs, and the power dynamics at play. Ramirez's engaging narrative not only illuminates the lives of these saints but also paints a vivid picture of Anglo-Saxon England, a time often shrouded in mystery and misconception. The exploration of their stories reveals the struggles and triumphs that defined their existence, challenging the notion of the 'Dark Ages' as a time devoid of sophistication and progress.
The Private Lives of the Saints serves as a landmark work that encourages a deeper understanding of history. By bringing these figures down from their heavenly pedestals, Ramirez provides a unique lens through which to appreciate the rich tapestry of human experience during a pivotal period. This captivating examination invites readers to reflect on the enduring legacy of these saints and their impact on society.
What a wonderful book this is. Like the interlace stonework on an Anglo-Saxon cross, Janina Ramirez's themes are interwoven with a consummate skill. * Tom Holland *
Ramirez blasts a powerful spotlight into the so-called Dark Ages and reveals a vibrant world, awash with colour and character. * Dan Snow *
A wonderful book * Simon Schama *
Entertaining ... carefully composed * Observer *
Those who were recast as saints achieved a superhuman status, their real lives often obscured by hagiographies rich with legends of miracle-working from beyond the grave. Janina Ramirez's book portrays them historically – as living, breathing personalities within the world they knew, the places we have inherited. Her enthusiasm and instinct for relevance should welcome a broad new audience to medieval Church history. * Jonathan Foyle *
What a wonderful book this is. Like the interlace stonework on an Anglo-Saxon cross, Janina Ramirez's themes are interwoven with a consummate skill. * Tom Holland *
Ramirez blasts a powerful spotlight into the so-called Dark Ages and reveals a vibrant world, awash with colour and character. * Dan Snow *
A wonderful book * Simon Schama *
Entertaining ... carefully composed * Observer *
Those who were recast as saints achieved a superhuman status, their real lives often obscured by hagiographies rich with legends of miracle-working from beyond the grave. Janina Ramirez's book portrays them historically – as living, breathing personalities within the world they knew, the places we have inherited. Her enthusiasm and instinct for relevance should welcome a broad new audience to medieval Church history. * Jonathan Foyle *
What a wonderful book this is. Like the interlace stonework on an Anglo-Saxon cross, Janina Ramirez's themes are interwoven with a consummate skill. * Tom Holland *
Ramirez blasts a powerful spotlight into the so-called Dark Ages and reveals a vibrant world, awash with colour and character. * Dan Snow *
A wonderful book * Simon Schama *
Entertaining ... carefully composed * Observer *
Those who were recast as saints achieved a superhuman status, their real lives often obscured by hagiographies rich with legends of miracle-working from beyond the grave. Janina Ramirez's book portrays them historically – as living, breathing personalities within the world they knew, the places we have inherited. Her enthusiasm and instinct for relevance should welcome a broad new audience to medieval Church history. * Jonathan Foyle *
ISBN: 9780753560327
Dimensions: 198mm x 128mm x 31mm
Weight: 334g
496 pages