How did Edmer contribute to knowledge of St. Anselm of Canterbury’s life?

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Luca della Robbia: St. Anselm of Canterbury — St. Anselm of Canterbury St. Anselm of Canterbury (center), terra-cotta altarpiece by Luca della Robbia; in the Museo Diocesano, Empoli, Italy.

Edmer, a monk and close associate of St. Anselm of Canterbury, served as his secretary and chaplain from 1093 until Anselm’s death in 1109. His intimate proximity to the archbishop allowed him to provide a uniquely accurate and credible account of Anselm’s life and the 12th-century monastic community.1

Edmer’s primary contributions to our knowledge of Anselm include:

Historia novorum in Anglia: This six-book work details events in England from the perspective of Canterbury, specifically highlighting Anselm’s significant role in the Investiture Controversy between clerical and political authorities.1
Vita Anselmi: Written around 1124, this authoritative biography provides a detailed look at Anselm’s private life.1

Edmer is highly regarded in historiography for his powers of critical observation and his innovative use of psychological analysis in biographical writing, which helped create a nuanced portrait of Anselm’s character and experiences.1