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Philology: Anglo-Saxon Myths, Rites and Runes

Vak
2011-2012

Admission requirements

Participants should be familiar with Old English.

Description

The myths and legends of the Germanic continent, certain rituals as well as the Germanic script survived the transition which the Anglo-Saxons made when they became Christians. But how did these elements of their pre-Christina heritage survive? With the help of a number of texts (e.g. charms, laws, legends, but also archeological evidence), of runic inscriptions and of secondary literature, we shall investigate how much is to be retrieved from the Anglo-Saxon pagan past. Retrieval, however, is not enough. It is equally important to consider how the remnants of the pagan past functioned after their conversion.

Course objectives

This course builds on experience acquired as part of a BA curriculum in Old English language, literature and culture. The students will extend their knowledge of and insights into the literature and culture of the Anglo-Saxons, especially of the interface between Germanic paganism and Christianity. The participants will also acquire the ability to read runic inscriptions. Although the material to be studied has not changed much over the years, interpretations of this material have. The students will also be introduced to the various ‘schools’ of interpreting the field of pagan rites and religions.

Timetable

The timetable will be available by June 1st at www.hum.leidenuniv.nl/engels.

Mode of instruction

Two-hour seminar per week, including hands-on sessions in the University Library.

Assessment method

Class presentation and participation (20%), final essay (80%).

Blackboard

The course is supported by Blackboard.

Reading list

  • Gale Owen-Crocker, Rites and Religions of the Anglo-Saxons (Newton Abbot and Totowa: David & Charles, 1981; repr. 1996) ISBN 0 880 290 463

  • H.R. Ellis Davidson, Gods and Myths of Northern Europe (Penguin).

  • R.I. Page, An Introduction to English Runes, 2nd edn (Woodbridge: Boydell Press, 2003), ISBN 0851157688

Registration

Students should register through uSis.

Contact information

Departmental Office English Language and Culture, P.N. van Eyckhof 4, room 102C. Tel. 071 5272144; mail: english@hum.leidenuniv.nl.
Coordinator of Studies Master: Ms. K. van der Zeeuw-Filemon, P.N. van Eyckhof 4, room 103C.