Borrowed Objects and the Art of Poetry: Spolia in Old English Verse

This study investigates the poetics of spolia in Old English poetry by examining Exeter riddles, Anglo-Saxon biblical poems, and Beowulf. It argues that charged moments in texts, particularly those related to translation, transformation, and the layering of various pasts, provide a previously unrecognised means for theorising Anglo-Saxon poetic creativity. Borrowed objects and the art of poetry explore the intersections of materiality and poetics, combining insights from thing theory with close readings of passages from Old English texts.

Format: Hardback
Length: 200 pages
Publication date: 26 March 2019
Publisher: Manchester University Press

This comprehensive study delves into the intricate realm of spolia, an innovative literary technique where recycled fictional elements are creatively repurposed to generate sites of metatextual reflection. While Old English poetry traditionally lacks a formal ars poetica, this book proposes a groundbreaking approach by focusing on particularly charged moments within texts, particularly those that revolve around translation, transformation, and the interweaving of diverse historical narratives. By examining these pivotal moments, the book reveals a previously undiscovered avenue for theorizing Anglo-Saxon poetic creativity.

Borrowed objects and the art of poetry seamlessly intersect at the crossroads of materiality and poetics, offering a harmonious blend of insights from thing theory and related approaches, alongside meticulous close readings of passages from Old English texts. Through this multidisciplinary exploration, the study sheds light on the ways in which poets harness the power of these borrowed elements to create rich tapestries of meaning, fostering a deeper understanding of the intricate interplay between language, imagination, and historical context in Old English poetry.

In the first chapter, the author establishes the theoretical framework for their study by exploring the concept of spolia and its historical significance in various artistic traditions. They trace the origins of spolia from ancient Greece to medieval Europe, highlighting its role as a means of cultural preservation and artistic innovation. The chapter also introduces the key concepts of metatextuality and intertextuality, which serve as the foundation for analyzing the literary strategies employed in spolia.

The second chapter delves into the rich tapestry of Old English poetry, examining the use of spolia in Anglo-Saxon biblical poems such as Exodus, Andreas, and Judith. The author analyzes how poets employ spolia to create layers of meaning, exploring how the incorporation of foreign elements into these texts fosters a sense of cultural hybridity and historical interconnectedness. They also discuss the role of translation in shaping the poetic voice and the ways in which spolia contributes to the exploration of themes such as identity, transformation, and the complexities of religious belief.

In the third chapter, the study expands its scope to include the iconic epic poem Beowulf. The author examines how Beowulf employs spolia to create a sense of grandeur and mythic resonance, drawing on ancient Germanic legends and mythological themes. They explore how the poet weaves together fragments of different texts, including epic poems, heroic sagas, and religious texts, to construct a cohesive narrative that reflects the cultural and historical milieu of the Anglo-Saxon world. The chapter also discusses the poet's use of spolia to explore themes of heroism, bravery, and the human struggle against adversity.

Throughout the book, the author employs a rigorous analytical approach, drawing on a wide range of literary theories and methodologies to unravel the complex tapestry of spolia in Old English poetry. They employ close readings of individual passages, paying attention to linguistic devices, imagery, and structural patterns, to demonstrate how spolia contributes to the poetic expression and meaning-making process. The book also incorporates insights from thing theory, cultural studies, and postcolonial theory, offering a multi-dimensional perspective on the literary strategies employed in spolia.

In conclusion, this study offers a groundbreaking exploration of spolia in Old English poetry, shedding light on the creative processes and cultural significance of this literary technique. By focusing on the charged moments within texts and the interconnections between materiality and poetics, the book provides a fresh perspective on Anglo-Saxon poetic creativity and offers valuable insights into the complex interplay between language, imagination, and historical context. This study will appeal to scholars and students of Old English literature, as well as those interested in literary theory, cultural studies, and the history of artistic innovation.

Weight: 354g
Dimension: 146 x 223 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526131652