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of Malmesbury William
d. 1143
A 12th-century English monk and historian, he became one of the medieval period’s most valued chroniclers by blending careful research with lively storytelling. His books preserve some of the clearest surviving accounts of early Norman and English history.
1 Audiobook
William of Malmesbury's Chronicle of the Kings of England
by of Malmesbury William
About the author
A monk of Malmesbury Abbey in Wiltshire, William of Malmesbury is generally thought to have died around 1143. He is remembered as one of the strongest historians of 12th-century England, admired for bringing together wide reading, sharp judgment, and a real feeling for narrative.
His best-known works include Gesta Regum Anglorum ("Deeds of the English Kings") and Gesta Pontificum Anglorum ("Deeds of the English Bishops"). He also wrote an important contemporary history, the Historia Novella, which covers the troubled reign of King Stephen.
What makes his writing stand out is the way it combines monastic learning with a lively interest in people, politics, and character. Even centuries later, historians still turn to him not only for facts, but for the thoughtful and often vivid way he tried to understand England’s past.