As a professor of Anglo-Saxon at the University of Oxford, J. R. R. Tolkien could not help but be inspired by the language and literature he studied and taught. As a result, his fictional world is infused with cultural material of the Middle Ages, particularly Old English language and literature. In this blog, I will … Continue reading The Medieval in Middle-Earth: Thror’s Map
Arseling: A Word Coined by Alfred the Great?
This blog post discusses the origins and use of the word 'arseling' in Old English, where it occurs as 'earsling'. There may be a surprising connection to none other than King Alfred the Great himself!
Old English is alive! Five TV series and movies that use Old English
Old English a dead language? Think again! the language of the Anglo-Saxons is making a comeback in modern cinema.
Passion, Piles and a Pebble: What Ailed Alfred the Great?
The second episode of The Last Kingdom (UK airdate: Thursday, 29 October, 9 pm, BBC 2) introduces Prince Alfred, who would later become King Alfred the Great (d. 899). In his first scene, Alfred is portrayed as a man tormented both physically (because of his health) and morally (because of his lustful feelings towards the … Continue reading Passion, Piles and a Pebble: What Ailed Alfred the Great?
Splitting Anglo-Saxon Hairs: Cuthbert’s Comb
Splitting Anglo-Saxon Hairs: Cuthbert’s Comb Vikings, Alfred the Great and ninth-century England - The Last Kingdom (BBC; based on the Saxon Stories by Bernard Cornwell) will undoubtedly spark an interest into the Anglo-Saxons. On this blog, I will regularly discuss some of the historical and/or cultural background of The Last Kingdom, without major plot spoilers. In the first … Continue reading Splitting Anglo-Saxon Hairs: Cuthbert’s Comb
The Latest Miracle of Anglo-Saxon Missionary Saint Adalbert of Egmond (d. c.740)
Learn more about the Anglo-Saxon saint Adalbert (d. 740; Feast day: 25 June). In Holland, water from his holy well is used to brew beer.
A medieval giant on display: Last resting place of Beowulf’s Hygelac discovered?
Where was the giant Hygelac (mentioned in Beowulf) buried?