The Old English Martyrology: Edition, Translation and Commentary

Description

"The Old English Martyrology" is one of the longest and most important prose texts written in Anglo-Saxon England; it also represents one of the most impressive examples of encyclopaedic writing from the European Middle Ages. Probably intended as a reference work, it was used and transmitted for over 200 years, providing its readers with information on native and foreign saints, time measurement, the seasons of the year, biblical events, and cosmology. Its lively and engaging vignettes illustrate the importance of miracle stories for the early medieval cult of saints. This new edition presents a revised text, with a facing-page, newly-prepared English translation; they are accompanied by a commentary based on a fresh comparison with some 250 Latin and Old English texts, the first published glossary for this text, and extensive bibliographical information and indices. Acknowledgements vii Abbreviations ix Introduction 1. Date of Composition, Sources 1 2. Language and Origin 4 3. Historical and Literary Context 11 4. Manuscripts 18 5. Previous Editions and Editorial Policy 25 6. Note on the Translation 30 Sigla 32 Text and Translation 34 Commentary 228 Appendices 1. Manuscript A 311 2. Manuscript E 314 3. Manuscript F 319 Glossary 321 Bibliography 362 Indices Persons 387 Authors and Texts 394 Place-Names and Geographical Terms 398