A Comprehensive Examination of Hairstyles in Early Medieval Northumbria and Mercia

The examination of hairstyles in early medieval Northumbria and Mercia provides a fascinating glimpse into the cultural practices, societal norms, and interplay of various influences during this period. This essay will explore the evidence and interpretations surrounding the hairstyles of the kings and elites in these kingdoms, drawing from contemporary depictions, archaeological findings, and historical records.

Introduction to the Historical Context

The Early Middle Ages, specifically the period from late 5th to early 11th century AD, was a time of significant cultural and political transformations in England. The kingdoms of Northumbria and Mercia were influential during this period, with Northumbrian kings like Edwin and Oswald playing pivotal roles in the conversion of the Anglo-Saxons to Christianity. Mercia, under kings such as Offa and Coenwulf, also emerged as a dominant and influential political force.

Northumbrian Kings and Their Hairstyles

Archaeological evidence from Northumbria provides limited direct insight into the hairstyles of its kings and nobility. Unlike their Mercian counterparts who appeared on coins, Northumbrian kings did not feature prominently on coins or other contemporary artifacts that could offer visual depictions. This absence leaves room for speculation and interpretation based on broader context and analogies from the region and beyond.

The "dying Gaul" statue, a famous artifact from Gaul (present-day France) dating back to around 150 BC, offers a point of reference. The statue shows a Celtic warrior with short curly hair, suggesting that at least some segments of the Celtic population wore their hair in this manner. Given the cultural and military influence of the Celts in Northumbria, it is plausible that some Northumbrian elites may have adopted similar styles or variations thereof.

Mercian Hairstyles: Coins as Historical Documents

Mercian kings, on the other hand, have left more visible evidence of their appearance. Offa's reign, during the 8th century, saw the introduction of gold disc brooches and the depiction of the king's portrait on coins. Offa's portrait on these coins reflects a distinctive haircut often described as a 'mullet.' This haircut, characterized by longer hair at the front and sides with a short, buzzed back and top, aligns with the common military haircut style of the period, possibly reflecting both practical considerations and elite fashion.

The subsequent king, Coenwulf, also adopted a similar haircut, as evidenced on his coinage. This uniformity in the depiction of royal portraits likely indicates a deliberate attempt to maintain a consistent, recognizable image and reinforce the king's authority and regality.

Cultural Influences and Interactions

The hairstyles of Northumbrian and Mercian elites cannot be understood in isolation. The early medieval period was characterized by significant cultural exchanges and influences. The Anglo-Saxon kingdoms were at the crossroads of Germanic, Celtic, and Roman cultures, with each contributing unique elements to the evolving customs and aesthetics of the region.

The Roman influence, while present, may have been more subtle in terms of visual hair styles, but was crucial in terms of cultural assimilation and technological advancements. The Germanic (Anglo-Saxon) influence may have led to the adoption of shorter hair in elite circles for both practical (open fields, war) and aesthetic (vitality and strength) reasons. Celtic influence, as suggested by the "dying Gaul" statue, could have contributed to the shorter, curly hair styles observed in Northumbria.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the hairstyles of the kings and elites in 8th century Northumbria and Mercia are a complex reflection of the region's diverse cultural and political landscape. The limited direct evidence from Northumbria, combined with the more abundant evidence from Mercia, suggests a range of hairstyles, from longer, possibly in Celtic style, to shorter, militarily practical cuts. The cultural influences from Roman, Germanic, and Celtic traditions played a significant role in shaping these styles, contributing to the evolving aesthetic and social norms of early medieval England.

Keywords and References

Keywords: Northumbrian kings, Mercian hairstyles, early medieval England, cultural influences, Celtic hairstyles

References:

Barbarians: The Early Medieval European Kingdoms, John H. Uniform, New York: Routledge, 2015. Celts in Europe, Margaret Archibald, Edinburgh: Birlinn, 2013. coins of Offa and Coenwulf, British Museum Experiences, 2017. The "dying Gaul" statue, Louvre Museum, Paris, France.