Writing Biography at the Edge of History.

The article explores the methodology of historiography and biographical writing in medieval English history. The author reflects on the archaeological excavation of the skeleton of a seventh-century Englishwoman and aspects of the gravesite and remains that can be used to construct an historical narrative. The use of material evidence in lieu of textual sources for historical research is discussed. The article reports on isotopes found in human bones that can provide information on an individual's diet, origins, and mobility. Other topics include bone modifications, prosopography, and beds in graves.