Richard of Hexham facts for kids

Richard of Hexham was an English writer and historian who lived a long time ago. He was known for writing down important events from his time. He lived in a place called Hexham in England.

Richard of Hexham: A Medieval Historian

Who Was Richard of Hexham?

Richard of Hexham was an English chronicler, which means he was someone who wrote down historical events. He became the head of the church in Hexham, called a "prior," around the year 1141. He was a monk and spent his life studying and writing. He passed away sometime between 1155 and 1167.

What Did He Write?

Richard wrote two main books. One was called Brevis Annotatio. This was a short history of the church in Hexham. It covered events from 674 to 1138. For this book, he used information from other famous historians like Bede, Eddius, and Symeon of Durham. This book was later published by James Raine.

His other, more important book was Historia de gestis regis Stephani ci de bello Standardii. This long title means "History of the Deeds of King Stephen and of the Battle of the Standard." This book is very important for understanding what happened in northern England during the early years of King Stephen's rule. It tells us a lot about the famous Battle of the Standard.

Why Are His Writings Important?

The Historia is special because Richard wrote it while these events were happening. It covers the time from when King Henry I died in 1135 up to early 1139. Because he was alive during these times, his book gives us a very valuable look at history. It helps us understand the politics and battles of that period, especially the Battle of the Standard.

Where Can You Read His Works?

Richard's Historia has been edited and published for people to read. Richard Howlett prepared it for a collection called the Chroniclers of the Reigns of Stephen, Henry II and Richard I. It was also translated into English by Joseph Stevenson in a series called the Church Historians of England.