Chronicle of a Bourgeois of Valenciennes
Récits d’un bourgeois de Valenciennes aka The Chronicle of a Bourgeois of Valenciennes is a vivid 14th-century vernacular chronicle written by an anonymous urban chronicler from Valenciennes in the County of Hainaut. It survives in a manuscript that describes local and regional history from about 1253 to 1366, blending chronology, narrative episodes, and eyewitness-style accounts of political, military, and social events in medieval France, Flanders, and the Low Countries. The work begins with a chronological framework of events affecting Valenciennes and its region under rulers such as King Philip VI of France and the shifting allegiances of local nobility. It includes accounts of conflicts, sieges, diplomatic manoeuvres, and the impact of broader struggles like the Hundred Years’ War on urban life in Hainaut. Written from the perspective of a burgher (bourgeois) rather than a monastery or royal court, the chronicle offers a rare lay viewpoint on high politics and warfare, reflecting how merchants, townspeople, and civic institutions experienced the turbulence of the 13th and 14th centuries. Its narrative style combines straightforward reporting of events with moral and civic observations, making it a valuable source for readers interested in medieval urban society, regional politics, and the lived experience of war and governance in pre-modern Europe.
Available at Amazon in eBook and Paperback format.
Oriel College, Oxford University is in Oxford University.
In 1572 Walter Raleigh [aged 18] educated at Oriel College, Oxford University.
In 1573 Edward Unton [aged 17] graduated BA from Oriel College, Oxford University.
On 15th May 1601 Walter Mansel 2nd Baronet [aged 13] was awarded BA by Oriel College, Oxford University.
On 22nd May 1601 Walter Mansel 2nd Baronet [aged 13] matriculated at Oriel College, Oxford University.
In 1658 John Borlase 2nd Baronet [aged 16] matriculated Oriel College, Oxford University.
On 22nd October 1689 John Cope 6th Baronet [aged 15] matriculated Oriel College, Oxford University.
On 31st January 1722 Edward Dering 5th Baronet [aged 17] matriculated Oriel College, Oxford University.
On 17th December 1725 Edward Dering 5th Baronet [aged 20] graduated with a MA from Oriel College, Oxford University.
In 1747 James Brudenell 5th Earl Cardigan [aged 21] graduated Bachelor of Arts at Oriel College, Oxford University.
In 1751 Richard Grosvenor 1st Earl Grosvenor [aged 19] graduated Master of Arts: Oxford University at Oriel College, Oxford University.
On 18th October 1760 Henry Somerset 5th Duke Beaufort [aged 16] matriculated at Oriel College, Oxford University.
On 7th July 1763 Henry Somerset 5th Duke Beaufort [aged 18] graduated from Oriel College, Oxford University witha Doctor of Civil degree.
The Deeds of the Dukes of Normandy
The Gesta Normannorum Ducum [The Deeds of the Dukes of Normandy] is a landmark medieval chronicle tracing the rise and fall of the Norman dynasty from its early roots through the pivotal events surrounding the Norman Conquest of England. Originally penned in Latin by the monk William of Jumièges shortly before 1060 and later expanded at the behest of William the Conqueror, the work chronicles the deeds, politics, battles, and leadership of the Norman dukes, especially William’s own claim to the English throne. The narrative combines earlier historical sources with firsthand information and oral testimony to present an authoritative account of Normandy’s transformation from a Viking settlement into one of medieval Europe’s most powerful realms. William’s history emphasizes the legitimacy, military prowess, and governance of the Norman line, framing their expansion, including the conquest of England, as both divinely sanctioned and noble in purpose. Later chroniclers such as Orderic Vitalis and Robert of Torigni continued the history, extending the coverage into the 12th century, providing broader context on ducal rule and its impact. Today this classic work remains a foundational source for understanding Norman identity, medieval statesmanship, and the historical forces that reshaped England and Western Europe between 800AD and 1100AD.
Available at Amazon in eBook and Paperback format.
On 14th February 1767 Thomas Anson 1st Viscount Anson was born to George Adams aka Anson [aged 35] and Mary Venables-Vernon [aged 27]. He was educated at Eton College [Map] and Oriel College, Oxford University. He married 15th September 1794 Anne Margaret Coke Viscountess Anson, daughter of Thomas Coke 1st Earl of Leicester and Jane Dutton, and had issue.
Around 1813. Frederick Nash [aged 31]. "Oriel College, Oxford University.
On 23rd January 1821 George Prévost 2nd Baronet [aged 17] matriculated Oriel College, Oxford University. He graduated BA, taking a second class in literæ humaniores, and a first class in the mathematical school in 1825. He proceeded MA in 1827; was ordained deacon in 1828, and then priest in 1829.
Harry George Powlett 4th Duke Cleveland educated at Oriel College, Oxford University.
On 14th April 1743 James Hamilton 6th Duke Hamilton 3rd Duke Brandon [aged 18] was created Doctor of Civil Law at St Mary Hall Oriel College, Oxford University.