‘A Mighty Fleet and the King’s Powerʼ: The Isle of Man, AD 400 to 1265

by Tim Clarkson

Situated in the middle of the Irish Sea, the Isle of Man is like a stepping-stone between the lands that surround it. In medieval times, it played an important role in the histories of Ireland, Scotland, England and Wales. This book explores the first part of that turbulent era, tracing the story of the Isle of Man from the fifth to the thirteenth centuries. It looks at the ways in which various peoples – Britons, Scots, Irish, English and Scandinavians – influenced events in Man over a period of more than 800 years. A large portion of the book is concerned with the Vikings, a group whose legacy – in place names, old burial mounds and finely carved stones – is such a vivid element in the Manx landscape today.

240 pages, Hardcover

First published May 2, 2023

About the author

An independent historian writing (and blogging) about early medieval Scotland.

Reviews

[Tom Fordham · Rating 4 out of 5]

A wonderfully vivid history of the IOM from its earliest beginnings to the late Viking era. I had no idea how much Irish, Welsh, Scottish, English and Norwegian history revolved around this island alongside the native Manx history. What I liked is that Clarkson admits that there isn't enough information in some areas of the chronology but nevertheless creates an absorbing and exciting story of Manx history. Another endearing touch was that he added sections about the IOM and King Orry's legend, the Manx King Arthur as he calls him. I'm relatively new to Manx history but I want to sing about it from the rooftops, this fascinating yet very close island has been eclipsed by its bigger neighbours but the Crovan dynasty is fascinating. A recommended read for those looking to learn more about the IOM, alongside the Chronicle of course.

[Gabriel Stein · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting and well written, but

This is an interesting and well written book about topic on which I knew very little.

If it has a drawback, it is (as the author freely and repeatedly acknowledges) the lack of sources. This means that much of the writing, particularly regarding the older period, becomes conjecture. The author does note this, but it gets a bit much when you read page after page with suppositions. That being said, I really enjoyed it.