Chronicle of the Kings of England

Chronicle of the Kings of England (Gesta Regum Anglorum in Latin) is one of William of Malmesburys most notable works. It is a historical chronicle that covers the history of England from its legendary origins to the 12th century focusing primarily on the reigns of English kings. The work is divided into five books each corresponding to different periods in English history. Book I covers legendary and semi-legendary figures from ancient times including the mythical King Arthur and other early rulers. Book II begins with the arrival of the Anglo-Saxons in England and covers the period of the Anglo-Saxon Heptarchy culminating with the reign of Alfred the Great. Book III continues with the history of England under the rule of the Danish kings and the eventual restoration of the English monarchy under Edward the Confessor and the Norman Conquest led by William the Conqueror. Book IV details the history of England during the Norman period including the reigns of William II (William the Conquerors son) and Henry I.