History is principally a story.

Athelstan, c.895-939.
Corpus Christi College, Cambridge.

Note how Bede starts his history far back in the fading twilight of Imperial Rome. Then he moves forward carefully highlighting the key moments, the "hinges" on which history turns. Here we have an "Illuminated manuscript from Bede's Life of St Cuthbert, c.930." What is important to realize is that history is principally a story. And what is even more important is to consider who is telling that story.

Agenda:

1. Pater noster.
2. Read and take notes in Bede: 
1.  Take notes
3. Continue Reading Journal (9/20): Preface & Book I
1. As mentioned in the Preface, why is Bede pleased at the request of king Ceowulf?
2. In Bede's view, does it matter if history is recorded accurately?
3. In Chapter 1, how does Bede relate the future of Britain to the future of the Bible?
4. Explain Bede's system of dating.
5. How does Bede view shrines, monuments, relics, and martyrs of the Church set up after the persecution of Christians under Emperor Diocletian?
6. How does Bede view the Britons in comparison to the Picts, the Irish, and the Angles?
7. On which nation does Bede focus his history?
4. Review HW:
1. Read Book I of Bede  (9/23)
2. Be perfect.