From Celtic culture to Norman wisdom, the English should delight in their hybridity | Letters

The origins of the English nation long preceded the Anglo-Saxons, says Rev Dr Richard Cleaves. Plus a letter from George Nicholson Rev Dr John Caperon, writing about the Bayeux tapestry’s visit to Britain, appears to think that “the real origins of the English nation” lie in the “pre-1066 Anglo-Saxon culture” (Letters, 9 June). This is utterly outrageous. A little respect is due to the Danelaw and the Vikings, to the Celts of the fifth, sixth and seventh centuries, to the continental, Middle Eastern and north African Roman occupiers, and to the iron-age Celts. Let’s hope he learns a thing or two from the vestiges of that Celtic language in so many English placenames from Dover to Cornwall and Cumbria, in what Cymry still describe as Yr Hen Ogledd (the Old North). Why can’t the English delight in their hybridity?Rev Dr Richard CleavesPen-y-bont ar Ogwr, Bridgend The exact details of Harold’s death as represented by the Bayeux tapestry may be in doubt, but what is beyond question is the fact that he was defeated by Norman wisdom.George NicholsonSheffield Have an opinion on anything you’ve read in the Guardian today? Please email us your letter and it will be considered for publicatio

Jun 12, 2026 → Jun 12, 2026