Quest for a queen

BRONWEN RILEY is swept up by a lively if uneven exploration of the life and landscapes of the near-mythical first-century leader of the Iceni

- BRONWEN RILEY

16th century, exerted a powerful hold on the British imagination and identity. The defiant and vengeful queen of the Iceni – who led a revolt of such ferocity that the Romans feared they would lose the province of Britain – is celebrated in literature, art, film and fancy dress. Even now, more than 19 centuries after the alleged date of her rebellion in AD 60, she remains a figure of fascination. I say alleged, because nothing about her is certain – not her name, nor the site of her last battle, nor the manner of her death, nor her very existence.

Surviving classical references to Boudica are contained in just three contradictory texts by two authors, Tacitus and Cassius Dio. How, then, is it possible to find a fresh perspective on her story? Archaeology is one such avenue, and has long been used to corroborate or elaborate these accounts. Excavations at key sites continue to add fascinating material to the mix – even when it serves only to debunk the fond theories of previous generations.

In his new book, Duncan Mackay’s quest for the elusive queen takes the fashionable literary form of a personal travel narrative through changing landscapes. Its energy and originality derive from his efforts to show that Boudica’s lost world lies tantalisingly close to our own – literally just a few inches beneath our feet – and can be revealed to us if we only know how and where to look.