A Day of Old English Poetry
with Dr. Beth Frazier
Nū scylun hergan hefaenrīcaes Uard!
This discussion will be led by a medieval literature scholar Dr. Elizabeth Frazier. More about her below.
From Old English to Anglo-Norman and Middle English—all the way to the English of Shakespeare, which is considered modern—our language has changed radically. In this class, we will read the oldest surviving poem in English, Caedmon’s Hymn, a song celebrating Creation.
Together we will read the original version alongside a modern translation in order to gain some familiarity with Old English.
Then we will turn to The Dream of the Rood, an extremely moving meditation on the Passion from the point-of-view of the tree that becomes the Cross. We will see how Anglo-Saxon Christians emphasized Christ’s kingship, presenting a heroic, warrior Christ as opposed to the more familiar Man of Sorrows.
Along the way, participants will learn some key features of Old English poetry and will examine images of relevant manuscripts to bring the
poems to life. Fans of J.R.R. Tolkien will enjoy encountering texts that helped inspire The Lord of the Rings.
Finally, we’ll finish up with a creative writing exercise of our own.
All students will receive a course packet to keep.
When: July 19, 10 am to 1.
Where: Many Years Farm
Cost: $75 per person or $100 per family
Hold your spot now-sign up below. Space limited.
- Price for individual:
- Price for family:
- Contact Colette if you would like more information. paraskeve@gmail.com or 240 676 1350 please text.
Biography:
Elizabeth Frazier served previously as Assistant Professor of English for Franciscan University of Steubenville’s study-abroad campus in Austria. She currently works for the St. Anselm Institute for Catholic Thought at the University of Virginia. Beth received her Ph.D. at UVa, where she studied medieval literature.