Roman Britain in 1914
Roman Britain in 1914, authored by F. Haverfield, is a historical account published in the early 20th century that provides a detailed overview of archaeological discoveries related to Roman Britain during the year 1914. The book highlights significant finds, including military structures and inscriptions, while contextualizing these discoveries within the backdrop of World War I. Haverfield's work serves as a technical survey of the archaeological landscape, documenting notable excavations at sites like Wroxeter and Corbridge, and reflects on the impact of contemporary events on the study of Roman antiquities in Great Britain.
Editions
X-Ray
Professor and Fellow of the Academy, the author and primary researcher documenting Roman Britain archaeological finds in 1914. He serves as the scholarly voice analyzing and cataloguing discoveries across Britain.
Archaeologist who conducted excavations at Raedykes and worked on the Wall of Pius. A key collaborator in Scottish Roman site investigations.
Excavator of Wrexham who conducted systematic excavations at Holt, uncovering important Roman tile and pottery works of the Twentieth Legion.
Fellow of Pembroke College, Oxford, who led the excavation of the Roman fort at Ambleside with notable success.
About Roman Britain in 1914
Chapter Summaries
- Preface
- Haverfield explains the structure and purpose of the volume, noting that both finds and publications were fewer in 1914 due to the outbreak of war. He outlines the three main sections covering finds, inscriptions, and publications.
- A
- Comprehensive survey of archaeological discoveries across Britain, divided between military sites (forts, walls, camps) and civilian settlements (villas, towns, industrial sites). Major discoveries include work at Holt pottery works, Ambleside fort, and Traprain Law.
- B
- Detailed catalog and analysis of Roman inscriptions discovered during the year, including altars, tiles, bronze objects, and milestones. Each inscription is presented with translation and scholarly commentary.
Key Themes
- Archaeological Methodology
- The work demonstrates systematic archaeological practice through detailed documentation, careful excavation techniques, and scholarly analysis of finds. Haverfield emphasizes the importance of proper recording and interpretation of archaeological evidence.
- Historical Preservation
- The urgent need to document and preserve knowledge of Roman Britain's archaeological heritage, particularly as war threatens to disrupt ongoing excavations and scatter researchers.
- Scholarly Collaboration
- The extensive network of archaeologists, excavators, and scholars working together across Britain to uncover and understand Roman heritage, sharing findings and expertise.
Characters
- F. Haverfield(protagonist)
- Professor and Fellow of the Academy, the author and primary researcher documenting Roman Britain archaeological finds in 1914. He serves as the scholarly voice analyzing and cataloguing discoveries across Britain.
- Dr. Macdonald(major)
- Archaeologist who conducted excavations at Raedykes and worked on the Wall of Pius. A key collaborator in Scottish Roman site investigations.
- Mr. Arthur Acton(major)
- Excavator of Wrexham who conducted systematic excavations at Holt, uncovering important Roman tile and pottery works of the Twentieth Legion.
- Mr. R. G. Collingwood(major)
- Fellow of Pembroke College, Oxford, who led the excavation of the Roman fort at Ambleside with notable success.
- Mr. A. O. Curie(major)
- Archaeologist who conducted promising preliminary excavations at Traprain Law, uncovering evidence of native settlement under Roman rule.
- Mr. R. H. Forster(major)
- Archaeologist who carried out the ninth season of excavations at Corbridge, though with somewhat scanty results.
