Gregory of Tours is essential reading for anyone interested in fifth and sixth century Europe. 'The Histories' (often called 'The History of the Franks') is a fascinating, and often exciting, read, which mixes social and political information alongside human success and failure. It's his most discussed work, but the rest are also important; fortunately for us, the majority are available in English language translations.
1. The History of the Franks by Gregory of Tours (trans. Lewis Thorpe)
Gregory's most famous, and important, text continues to be used by historians and students alike. However, this lively, and very readable, translation can be read simply for entertainment, as well as education. This Penguin edition includes a useful, but slightly outdated, introduction.2. Gregory of Tours by Ian Wood
This book is a short, but invaluable, introduction to most aspects of Gregory's life and work, including the debate over when his texts were written. Valuable political and social context is also given; the perfect companion to Thorpe's translation.3. The Merovingian Kingdoms 450 - 751 by Ian Wood
The key textbook for any student of Merovingian Europe, this book provides the necessary background and context to, as well as a slightly clearer explanation of, the events recounted by Gregory in the Histories.
4. Saints and their miracles in late antique Gaul by R. Van Dam
An important book for students of Gregory. This contains the translation of two works (Miracles of the Bishop St. Martin, Suffering and Miracles of the Martyr St. Julian) and several crucial chapters on the nature of saints in 6th century Europe, and their importance to Gregory.5. The narrators of barbarian history, AD 550-800, by W. Goffart
A quarter of this work is devoted to Gregory, and it offers a very definite interpretation, including conclusions on why he wrote, and how we should treat his work. Not necessarily 'right', but important in modern historiography.6. Life of the Fathers by Gregory of Tours (trans. E. James)
This book presents Gregory's 'Life of the Fathers', a compilation of 20 'saints lives', short works narrating the life and miracles of certain holy individuals. The book includes a useful introduction, bibliography, and helpful footnotes.7. Glory of the Confessors by Gregory of Tours (trans. R. Van Dam)
Glory of the Confessors compiles over 100 short accounts, written by Gregory, recording the good deeds and miracles of bishops, saints, and other holy people. The text includes an introduction to the material, and to Gregory himself. Good footnotes.8. The long-haired kings and other studies in Frankish history by J.M. Wallace-Hadr
This work contains Wallace-Hadrill's essay 'The Work of Gregory of Tours in the Light of Modern Research' - an essential read for anyone studying the Histories and a contrast to Goffart (above) - as well as useful contextual information.9. Glory of the Martyrs by Gregory of Tours (trans. R. Van Dam)
A similar book to 'Glory of the Confessors', listing 106 short pieces concerning the holy deeds of numerous Christian Martyrs. A helpful introduction and footnotes are provided and, like all of Gregory's material listed here, it is translated.10. Views from a many-windowed tower by G. de Nie
Historians examine, and interpret, both primary sources and their authors. This book contains G. de Nie's interesting, and often poetic, views on Gregory. They make a marked difference to Goffart (above) but may not be overly helpful to the majority.