Romuleon

Romuleon is a historical text attributed to Benedict of Peterborough, an English Benedictine monk and abbot who lived in the 12th century. It is a chronicle detailing the history of Britain, largely focused on the period from the Roman occupation to the reign of King Stephen. It is considered to be a significant, although not universally accepted, source for the history of the period, offering a narrative perspective on events and figures.

The work's title is derived from Romulus, the legendary founder of Rome, reflecting its early focus on Roman Britain. However, the Romuleon goes beyond simply recounting Roman history in Britain and incorporates accounts of subsequent rulers and periods. The chronicle's value lies in its compilation of existing historical accounts and oral traditions, presenting a connected narrative of the island's history.

Scholarly assessments of the Romuleon vary. While it contains useful information, particularly where it preserves unique details, its accuracy has been questioned in some instances. Some historians believe that the work borrows heavily from other established historical sources like Geoffrey of Monmouth's Historia Regum Britanniae, which is known for its mixture of fact and fiction. Therefore, the Romuleon is often treated with caution and critically examined when compared to other primary and secondary historical sources.

Benedict of Peterborough is a known historical figure, who served as Abbot of Peterborough from 1177 to 1193. His authorship of the Romuleon is widely attributed to him, connecting the text to a specific author and context within the medieval period. Research and analysis of the text contribute to a broader understanding of historical writing and the preservation of history during the Middle Ages.