
THE COMIC HISTORY OF ENGLAND - Volumes One and Two - By Gilbert Abbott A'Beckett
PREFACE.
THE COMIC HISTORY OF ENGLAND.
BOOK I.
CHAPTER THE FIRST. THE BRITONS—THE ROMANS—INVASION BY JULIUS CÆSAR.
CHAPTER THE SECOND. INVASION BY THE ROMANS UNDER CLAUDIUS—CARACTACUS—BOADICEA—AGRICOLA—-GALGACUS—SEVERUS—VORTIGERN CALLS IN THE SAXONS.
CHAPTER THE THIRD. THE SAXONS—THE HEPTARCHY.
CHAPTER THE FOURTH. THE UNION OF THE HEPTARCHY UNDER EGBERT.
CHAPTER THE FIFTH. THE DANES—ALFRED.
CHAPTER THE SIXTH. FROM KING EDWARD THE ELDER TO THE NORMAN CONQUEST.
This witty chronicle invites listeners on a breezy tour of England’s past, where facts are served with a generous side of humor. The author deliberately strips away grandiose myth‑making, opting instead for a plain‑spoken, slightly sarcastic voice that still respects the significance of the events. Early chapters stroll through the misty world of the Britons, the Roman incursions, and the jumble of competing antiquarian theories, all illustrated with playful commentary. The tone feels like a knowledgeable friend teasing out the absurdities of history without sacrificing accuracy.
As the narrative moves forward, the comic lens focuses on familiar figures and turning points, exposing their pretensions and human foibles in a refreshingly down‑to‑earth manner. The accompanying engravings add a visual punch, turning ancient battles and courtly intrigue into lively, almost cartoonish scenes. Listeners will come away with a clearer picture of England’s foundations, plus the satisfying sense that learning can be both enlightening and entertaining.
Language
en
Duration
~26 hours (1547K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Produced by David Widger from page scans graciously provided by Google Books
Release date
2014-02-09
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1811–1856
A lively Victorian humorist and playwright, he helped shape the early voice of Punch while also building a career in journalism and the law.
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