The Seafarer, Grammatica, and the making of Anglo-Saxon textual culture
Audrey Walton
Abstract Despite the popularity of The Seafarer within Old English scholarship, poem's governing logic remains unclear, in large part because enduring mystery surrounding use compound expression forþon . This study will argue that repeated reflects anaphoric repetition causatives Psalter. Moreover, through its clauses, poem invites reader to approach text using interpretive strategies commonly associated with Psalms. Especially commentaries Augustine, Cassiodorus and Origen, allegorical interpretation Psalms is linked theories subjectivity: different levels Psalms’ meaning often reflect interpretations first- person speaker. Drawing on this link between biblical allegory patristic self, uses as a backdrop against which develop specifically Anglo-Saxon model Christian subjectivity asceticism. In layered complexity imagery, offers more than vernacular glossing originally Latin allegory: it creates figures medium English. Implicitly, makes claims for vernacular, well belonging it, vehicle reflection contemplation.
Anglo-Saxon England