Henry of Huntingdon was a prominent churchman and historian, whose literary output spanned poetry, prose, and a comprehensive history of the English people. His chronicles extend to the year 1154, offering valuable insights into medieval thought and historical record-keeping. His enduring legacy lies in his ability to blend rigorous historical inquiry with literary artistry. Consequently, his works remain compelling reads for anyone interested in English history and the literature of the medieval period.
Henry of Huntingdon's History is a major source for events in England and Normandy during his lifetime, including the Battle of Hastings, the reigns of William II, Henry I, and Stephen, written with panache and passion and embellished with anecdotes such as Henry's death from a surfeit of lampreys, and Cnut and the waves.