The book begins with an exploration of the heathen Anglo-Saxon society before the conversion, detailing the sparse settlements, open-air religious sites, and tribal organization. It traces the gradual conversion of the kingdoms through missionary efforts, beginning with kings and nobles and extending downwards to the general population. The establishment of diocesan and parochial organization under Archbishop Theodore is thoroughly mapped, showing how the original monastic mission stations gave way to a network of parishes centered around local churches and resident priests. The work examines the legal and social status of the Saxon clergy, detailing their duties, payments like tithes and church scot, and the strict rules governing their conduct through a series of royal laws and synod canons.
Following the Norman Conquest, the narrative covers the introduction of foreign prelates, the separation of civil and ecclesiastical courts, and the massive wave of monastic foundations. A significant portion is devoted to the appropriation of parish benefices by monasteries and the subsequent creation of perpetual vicarages to ensure proper pastoral care. The volume describes the architecture and furniture of parish churches, official clerical vestments, and the varied duties of the parish priest, including public services, preaching, and teaching the laity through standardized manuals. It also explores the domestic life of the clergy, their houses, dress, and methods of hospitality, alongside the darker sides of the system such as clerical abuses, pluralities, and the difficulties of monastic intrusion. The later chapters discuss chantries, gilds, mediæval town parishes, and religious opinions leading up to the Reformation, supported by appendices of historical records, taxations, and manuscript illustrations.
