South Elmham lies fifteen miles inland on the northern boundary of Suffolk. It has a unity given to it by the saintly names of its parishes, and its compact rectangular shape. It retains much of its ancient form, and has the deep mysteries of the Saxon bishopric, and its ruined Old Minster lying within a large earthen rampart. Like most of Suffolk, it has old hedgerows brilliantly decorated with flowers in spring, and heavy with autumnal fruit. These hedges conceal medieval farmhouses, some with modem facades, but still supported by their ancient timber frames. Our understanding of ancient history is clouded by the lapse of time, the limited evidence, and the alien mindset of our forebears. South Elmham's history is no exception to this. In this book the author relates local events to the wider history in Britain and Europe. His interpretation of the history reflects many expert views; but is also at times personal and controversial.