Old English Riddles - Softcover

A. J. Wyatt

 
9781331775218: Old English Riddles

Synopsis

This book delves into a fascinating collection of Old English riddles, preserved in the Exeter Book, a tenth-century manuscript. The author meticulously examines the history of these riddles, exploring their relationship to earlier Latin riddle collections by authors such as Symphosius and Aldhelm. The book dissects the structure and style of these poetic enigmas, exploring how they use metaphor, runic characters, and even secret writing to challenge the reader to decipher their meaning. The author delves into the complex question of authorship, considering arguments for and against attributing the riddles to the great Anglo-Saxon poet Cynewulf. Ultimately, the book offers a comprehensive analysis of these enigmatic poems, shedding light on their origins, their intricate craftsmanship, and their place within the broader landscape of Old English literature.

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