Gesta Regum Anglorum

William of Malmesbury | c. 1090 – c. 1143
William of Malmesbury was an English chronicler and historian. Born around 1090, he became a monk at Malmesbury Abbey and later held the positions of librarian and precentor in the monastery. William participated in the council at Winchester in 1141, where he sided against King Stephen. His major works include:
Gesta Regum Anglorum (“Deeds of the Kings of the English”) provides a lively account of the Kings of England from the Saxon invasion up to 1126. It covers a broad span of English history and is considered an important source for understanding the early medieval period. Historia Novella (“Contemporary History”). This work extends the narrative from Gesta Regum Anglorum up to 1142, offering a continuation of the historical account. Gesta Pontificum Anglorum (“Deeds of the Bishops of the English”). An ecclesiastical history that focuses on the bishops and major monasteries of England up to 1123. Chronicle of the Kings of England is a work attributed to William of Malmesbury that covers English history in a chronological manner. Other works: William also wrote an account of the church at Glastonbury, providing insights into the history of Glastonbury Abbey. Additionally, he authored hagiographies (biographies of saints) including lives of Saint Dunstan and Saint Wulfstan.
William of Malmesbury’s works are valuable historical sources that provide important insights into the political, ecclesiastical, and cultural aspects of medieval England. His dedication to chronicling both secular and religious history contributes significantly to our understanding of the period.