Flores historiarum

This Latin chronicle, Flores historiarum, is a vital historical source covering the period from Creation to 1326, edited by Henry Richards Luard.

The Flores historiarum is a significant Latin chronicle that spans from the Creation to the year 1326. Compiled at the notable monasteries of St Albans and Westminster, this work provides a detailed historical narrative that has been essential for scholars and historians alike. Edited for the Rolls Series by the esteemed Henry Richards Luard, the chronicle was published in three volumes in 1890, with Volume 3 specifically covering the annals from 1265 to 1326.

Henry Richards Luard, a prominent academic of the nineteenth century, played a crucial role in the development of the Rolls Series. His edition of the Flores historiarum is recognized as the authoritative version, preserving a vital record of English history. The chronicle itself primarily draws from Matthew Paris's Chronica majora up to the year 1259, after which the subsequent annals provide independent insights into the political landscape of the time, particularly during the latter years of Henry III and the reigns of Edward I and Edward II.

Volume 3 stands out as it includes a wealth of independent annals, some contributed by the Westminster monk Robert of Reading. This volume is not only rich in historical content but also features an introduction that discusses the chronicle's historical significance. Additionally, an extensive index enhances the usability of the entire series, making it easier for readers to navigate the intricate details of this important work. English side-notes are provided throughout to further assist in understanding the text.