Anglo-Saxon England: Volume 49

The forty-ninth volume of Anglo-Saxon England focuses on Anglo-Saxon culture and history from the sixth to the thirteenth century, including a Record of the nineteenth conference of the International Society of Anglo-Saxonists, an examination of Slave resistance in early Medieval England, and a reassessment of the importance of bookland.

Format: Hardback
Publication date: 30 April 2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Contributions to the forty-ninth volume of Anglo-Saxon England delve into various aspects of Anglo-Saxon culture and history, spanning from the sixth to the thirteenth century. This comprehensive volume kicks off with a Record of the nineteenth conference of the International Society of Anglo-Saxonists, providing valuable insights into the scholarly discourse surrounding Anglo-Saxon studies. It concludes with an examination of Slave resistance in early Medieval England, shedding light on the complex dynamics of power and resistance during this period.

The essay "Be wifmannes beweddunge" delves into the intricate Anglo-Saxon betrothal and wedding process, exploring how these rituals evolved over time and gradually incorporated Christian elements. It sheds light on the social and cultural significance of marriage in Anglo-Saxon society and the role played by women in these ceremonies.

In addition to these scholarly articles, the volume includes two companion pieces that challenge prevailing beliefs about elite diets in Anglo-Saxon society. By utilizing isotopic evidence, these articles challenge the notion that free peasants sent substantial food rents to royal households. Instead, they propose alternative interpretations that highlight the diverse dietary practices and economic relationships within Anglo-Saxon society.

Furthermore, the volume includes an examination of a newly discovered fragment of the abridged version of Cassiodorus' Expositio psalmorum, a significant text that provides valuable insights into early Christian theology and liturgy. This fragment offers new perspectives on the development of psalmody and its significance in Anglo-Saxon culture.

The essay "Reassessment of the Importance of Bookland in Understanding the Period" explores the role of bookland in understanding Anglo-Saxon society and culture. It examines the physical landscape, economic activities, and social structures of bookland, highlighting its significance in shaping the intellectual and cultural landscape of the period.

Lastly, the essay "Investigation into Conflicting East Anglican Episcopal Chronology, with Regard to Bede's Historia Ecclesiastica" examines the chronology of East Anglican episcopal offices and their relationship to Bede's Historia Ecclesiastica. It challenges traditional assumptions and provides new insights into the development of ecclesiastical institutions and the transmission of historical knowledge in early medieval England.

Overall, this volume offers a wealth of insights into Anglo-Saxon culture and history, contributing to our understanding of this fascinating period. Its interdisciplinary approach and use of cutting-edge research methods make it a valuable resource for scholars and enthusiasts alike.

ISBN-13: 9781009408899