The transmission and reception of Graeco-Roman mythology in Anglo-Saxon England, 670–800
Michael W. Herren
Rhetoricians, orators, and public speakers of all stripes, if asked the question, which Greek or Roman deity they should invoke in case need, would surely answer ‘Hermes’ ‘Mercury’. Members this profession who also read early Latin-Old English glossaries might therefore be surprised to learn that deus oratorum was none other than Priapus! This came as good news me one occasionally looks for novel ways arouse an audience. However, I reflected further on meaning Épinal Glossary 10v32, my expectations wilted. Oratorum must a simple error hortorum , ‘of gardens’. Priapus may fecundus but he is not facundus .
Anglo-Saxon England