Rival Wisdoms: Reading Proverbs in the Canterbury Tales with Dr. Nancy Bradbury

In this episode of Chasing Leviathan, PJ and Dr. Nancy Bradbury discuss the study of pre-modern reading practices of proverbs, particularly in Chaucer's works. Dr. Bradbury explores the contestation between clerics and working-class individuals, as well as the anti-feminist proverbs countered by the wife of Bath. Through the conversation, listeners are invited to reconsider the role of proverbs in medieval life, moving from a reading proverbs as definitive moral statements to works of creative interpretation and decision-making.

For a deep dive into Nancy Bradbury's work, check out her book: Rival Wisdoms: Reading Proverbs in the Canterbury Tales 👉 https://www.amazon.com/dp/0271096888

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Who thinks that they can subdue Leviathan? Strength resides in its neck; dismay goes before it. When it rises up, the mighty are terrified. Nothing on earth is its equal. It is without fear. It looks down on all who are haughty; it is king over all who are proud. 

These words inspired PJ Wehry to create Chasing Leviathan. Chasing Leviathan was born out of two ideals: that truth is worth pursuing but will never be subjugated, and the discipline of listening is one of the most important habits anyone can develop. 

Every episode is a dialogue, a journey into the depths of a meaningful question explored through the lens of personal experience or professional expertise.