Preaching and Theology in Anglo-Saxon England: Aelfric and Wulfstan by Milton McC. Gatch
Arthur Campbell
R E V I W S Milton McC. Gatch, Preaching and Theology in Anglo-Saxon England: Aelfric Wulfstan (Toronto: University of Toronto Press, 1977). 266. $15.00 Professor Gatch has been for some time one our prominent scholars writers the field studies, particularly area homily. This book is fundamentally an analysis certain aspects homilies Wulfstan, coupled with examination manner use homily Carolingian times. Let me say at once that this a most learned book, thoroughly docu­ mented both primary secondary sources. The wide range biblio­ graphical reference exhaustive notes supplementing every pronounce­ ment are measure work went into making book. While it not ordinary reader, no person seriously interested entitled to proceed without careful reading England. One valuable parts chapter on preaching construction early medieval Church, emphatic calling question accepted views about who preached, when, where, how. His final word excellence achievement field: It my hope demonstrated we ought speak more carefully rather differently than custom uses which were designed they put. demonstrates also, believe, very strict source materials will increase respect achievements English homilists. (P. 58) must confess, however, or two points Gatch’s settled am uneasy unconvinced. For thing, seems here everything refers any way good soul life here­ after described as eschatological. accustomed hear deal n g l h tu d ies C anada, vi, i , Spring 1980 eschatology connection poems, there lurid descriptions end world last judgment. But surely all transitory nature (such ubi sunt motir Seafarer Wanderer) eschatological (pp. 6263 ). Even Beowulf, its many reflections God’s providence, subject “perplexing” allusions: poet resorts frequently God controls destiny men, whether Christians, that, although unpredictable, future stable existence those meet standards Ruler. 63) There little be gained by taking all-encompassing meaning term, would seem difficult find serious aspect Christian eschatological, since “ My kingdom world.” other point perhaps debatable even personal part: constantly praises expense anonymous” homilists — those, example, produced Blickling Vercelli homilies. These latter works lacking order inconsistent, what happens human death, wait Judgment Day. We referred article “Eschatology Anonymous Old Homilies,” (Traditio, 21 [1965], 117-65) confirmation view. On p. 147 article, he finds contradiction between statement 1 harrowing hell, just man needed go hell henceforth (Forster 23, lines 9-12) another Homily v rescued Christ have suffer death again 123, 3...
English Studies in Canada