Conceptualizing the Life Course in Early Medieval England
Thijs Porck|Harriet Soper
AbstractThis introduction poses a sequence of initial questions regarding the status life course in this period. How far do contemporary definitions respond to contextual demands? What is interplay between delineation stages and other elements identity formation? role played by intergenerational dynamics? Tackling such requires sensitivity nuances generic context, linguistic distinctions, historical contingency; it only then that more sweeping conclusions about contours early medieval English can be reached. The perceived shape ultimately found reflect inform countless issues religion, law, medicine literary expression. These dynamics come into focus with new intensity when approached holistically, are considered against one another, diverse sources placed adjacently, offering sometimes synchronous, jostling, views on their theme. This thus contests cultural dimensions period, often striking diversity, together offer promising field research.
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