The preceding chapters have established interpretations of the historiae of late seventh- and early eighth-century Northumbria in frames of reference common to modern empirical history. One chapter uses evidence from the texts to recreate the overall historical context within which the writings were produced; the third chapter puts forward the possible political agenda that specifically motivated Bede as indicated by the rhetorical strategies evident in the Ecclesiastical History. This chapter aims to examine Bede's comprehension of genre in terms of how he classified historia, and consequently, within what generic boundaries and traditions he worked. To do this, the chapter will explore the extent to which Bede deliberately chose to cite his historiae texts in traditions established by patristic forefathers; the specificity Bede exhibits concerning genre boundaries and the insights this can offer on his material; and the implications Bede's apparent approach might have on the expectations of historia of both his audience and ourselves.

The influence of previous writings on a text is a critical factor in the understanding of its nature. Thus writings of the early medieval period should not be viewed in isolation, but rather should be seen in the light of preceding texts (especially Late Antique ones). In fact, from the apparent similarities of a chronological series of historiographical texts it has been possible for historians to comment on the definition and development of specific genres within this area of narrative.