FURTHER READING ON DUMNONIA
FURTHER READING ON DUMNONIA
Primary Sources
Historia Regum Britanniae (The History of the Kings of Britain) by Geoffrey of Monmouth
A medieval chronicle that blends history and mythology, offering one of the earliest written accounts connecting Dumnonia to the Arthurian legend and the broader Celtic narrative.
Early Welsh Poetry Collections
Includes works like the Gododdin and the Black Book of Carmarthen, which preserve glimpses of the cultural memory of the Celtic kingdoms, including Dumnonia.
Inscriptions on Stones
Examples like the Doniert Stone and other memorial stones found in Cornwall and Devon directly link to the Dumnonian past through their carvings and inscriptions.
Academic and Historical Books
The Age of Arthur by John Morris
A scholarly exploration of Britain during the transition period from Roman rule to the early medieval kingdoms, including detailed sections on Dumnonia.
Celtic Christianity in Early Medieval Britain by Leslie Alcock
This academic work examines Christianity's spread in regions like Dumnonia, highlighting the blend of pagan and Christian practices.
Hillforts and the Dumnonii by Barry Cunliffe
A focused study of Dumnonian fortifications and their significance in defence, social organization, and culture.
Modern Interpretations
The Mists of Avalon by Marion Zimmer Bradley
A fictionalized retelling of the Arthurian legends from a feminist perspective. While not directly about Dumnonia, it draws heavily on Celtic mythology and settings like Tintagel.
Tintagel: Arthur and Archaeology by Charles Thomas
A detailed examination of the archaeological findings at Tintagel and their connection to Dumnonian history and Arthurian legend.
Archaeological Reports
Excavation Reports from Tintagel Castle
Published findings from recent excavations at Tintagel shed light on the settlement’s trade connections, elite status, and cultural significance.
Studies on the Doniert Stone
Papers analyzing the inscriptions and designs on this iconic Dumnonian artefact offer insights into the kingdom’s literacy, religion, and art.
Celtic Mythology and Legends
The Celtic Myths: A Guide to the Ancient Gods and Legends by Miranda AldhouseGreen
A comprehensive introduction to the myths and deities of the Celtic world, many of which would have been part of Dumnonia’s cultural fabric.
Myths and Legends of Cornwall by Craig Weatherhill
A collection of stories rooted in the Dumnonian heartland, exploring the region’s rich folkloric traditions.
Contemporary Studies and Revival Movements
Celtic Heritage: Ancient Tradition in Ireland and Wales by Alwyn Rees and Brinley Rees
Examines the lasting impact of Celtic traditions in regions connected to Dumnonia, offering insights into its cultural continuity.
Resources on the Cornish Language Revival
Websites and books documenting efforts to revive the Cornish language, which carries the linguistic legacy of Dumnonia.
Digital Resources
British Museum (www.britishmuseum.org)
A repository of artefacts and resources related to Celtic and Dumnonian history.
Historic England (www.historicengland.org.uk)
Offers detailed guides and reports on Devon, Cornwall, and Somerset archaeological sites and historical landmarks.
Cornwall Heritage Trust (www.cornwallheritagetrust.org)
Dedicated to preserving Cornwall's cultural and historical legacy, with resources on Dumnonia’s history and heritage.