Summary
Highlights
The episode begins by introducing an anonymous 8th or 9th-century British poet who composed 'The Ruin', a poem describing the crumbling remains of a Roman-British city, believed to be Bath. The poem, itself damaged by fire, offers a poignant insight into a forgotten era, a world of scattered mysteries amidst vast, collapsed ruins, and the feeling of wonder and loss experienced by those who witnessed these ancient structures.
The narrative shifts to the origins of Roman Britain, starting with Caesar's failed invasions in the 1st century BC. It highlights Rome's initial perception of Britain as a mysterious and terrifying land. Emperor Claudius successfully conquered Britain in 43 AD, bringing with him a war elephant as a symbol of Roman power. The Romans then extended their rule across the island, encountering fierce resistance from tribes like the Picts and Maetae in Caledonia (modern-day Scotland), eventually leading to the construction of Hadrian's Wall as the empire's northern frontier.
Roman rule transformed Britain, with cities like London and Colchester rapidly urbanising, bringing Roman infrastructure, trade goods, and culture. However, Britain remained a costly possession, consuming more resources than it produced. Rural areas were prone to rebellion, and local loyalty often surpassed allegiance to Rome. The episode draws parallels with modern occupations, noting that while some Britons benefited, they were never fully integrated into the empire's shared destiny. This constant threat of internal revolt, coupled with incursions from Picts, Scots, and Saxon pirates, laid the groundwork for future instability.
The 'British Error' refers to the recurring problem of Britain's governor using the substantial military force stationed on the island to launch bids for the imperial throne in Rome, leaving the province vulnerable. Clodius Albinus, a governor in the late 2nd century, epitomised this, taking his legions to challenge Emperor Septimus Severus, leaving Britain undefended and plunging it into chaos and invasions. This pattern of internal power struggles mirroring external threats characterised Roman Britain's decline.
By the 4th century, Rome's ability to defend itself weakened, and Britain's economy suffered from prolonged civil wars and barbarian attacks. A pivotal event, the 'Barbarian Conspiracy' of 367 AD, saw a coordinated invasion by Picts, Scots, and Saxons, plunging Britain into anarchy and deeply shaking Roman confidence. Emperor Gratian's unpopularity and dressing as a barbarian further fuelled discontent. Magnus Maximus, another ambitious governor, repeated the 'British Error', taking his army to Rome and further devastating Britain's defences and economy.
Magnus Maximus's departure in 383 AD marked the end of Roman rule in significant parts of Britain. His actions, like Albinus's, led to severe economic decline and increased chaos. The episode then details the final chapter: Constantine III, a common soldier, was proclaimed emperor by the Roman troops in Britain. He too took the entire garrison to the continent to pursue imperial ambitions, effectively ending Roman military presence. In 410 AD, Emperor Honorius formally instructed the Britons to defend themselves, marking the official end of Roman occupation.
With Rome's withdrawal, Britain underwent profound changes. Soldiers who remained became warlords, taxing the population for protection. Continental mercenaries like the Angles and Saxons arrived, leading to the first Anglo-Saxon kingdoms. Latin faded, writing ceased, and Roman identity was replaced. Roman towns and villas fell into ruin, becoming quarries for new constructions. Archaeological evidence shows urban centres like London abandoned and reclaimed by nature, with increased violence evident in burials. The impressive Roman structures became the 'work of giants' in the folklore of the new inhabitants, who resettled far from the imposing ruins.