Matthew Paris: Was This Medieval Chronicler a Reliable Source? - Medievalists.net
Briefly

Matthew Paris was a monk at the St. Albans community and a prolific medieval chronicler. He documented significant events such as the Mongol invasions and the ongoing conflict involving local entities. His historic works spanned nearly a million words and included various types of history. He often intertwined personal commentary with factual reporting, which raises questions about his reliability as a historian. In addition to grand narratives, he also addressed local issues like commerce and regional disputes, portraying a deeply interconnected view of history.
Matthew Paris blurred the line between historical fact and political messaging, weaving commentary within his chronicles while documenting events such as the Mongol invasion and local affairs.
His chronicles included a detailed account of the Mongol incursions in the early 1240s and their impacts on English trade and local economies.
Paris did not merely record events; he actively commented on them, prompting debates about the reliability of his reporting and his intentions.
The chronicles also reflected regional concerns, showcasing the internal affairs of the St. Albans monastery alongside broader historical narratives.
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