The Canterbury Fails Old English Life of Saint Machutus
Feb 26, 2022
The hosts dive into the captivating life of Saint Machutus, exploring his remarkable miracles and the essence of hagiography. They discuss the historical manuscripts, including the Cotton Ortho A8, and trace Machutus' identity across various languages. The narrative is rich with oceanic themes and cultural exchanges, yet they critique its formulaic prose. A lively cocktail segment introduces the Corpse Reviver, echoing Machutus' miraculous tales. Join them as they navigate religious history, Viking influences, and the challenges of translating ancient texts.
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Saints' Lives Weren't Just Spiritual
- Hagiography served both spiritual and material aims in the medieval world.
- Saints' lives promoted cults, regional power, and economic benefits alongside devotion.
How A Bookcase Shaped Manuscript IDs
- The Cotton collection's shelving method still defines British Library shelfmarks.
- A 1731 fire destroyed many manuscripts, yet the St. Macutis life survived in fragments.
A Cross-Channel Cultural Patchwork
- The Old English Life of St. Macutis is a translation from a 9th-century Breton Latin source by 'Billy.'
- It links Breton, Welsh, and Old English traditions through migration and relic movement.