The Written Word in Early Medieval England: Kent, Mercia and Wessex, C. 830-920 (Hardcover) (ISBN-13: 9781009628877)

This book presents an innovative, holistic examination of the uses of the written word in early medieval England during a century of political and societal upheaval, culminating in the emergence of the kingdom of the Anglo-Saxons under Alfred the Great and his children, thelfl d and Edward the Elder. Through a diverse range of documentary, literary and material evidence, Robert Gallagher explains how literary activity during this period - particularly involving members of the laity - has often been underestimated. He focuses on several innovations in documentary culture that took place in the mid-ninth century, which in turn played a significant role in establishing the cultural conditions for Alfredian cultural renewal. The evidence makes clear that limited personal literacy did not pose a barrier to participation in literary activity. This study thus makes a major new contribution to our understanding of England's ninth- and tenth-century history.

Author: Robert Gallagher
ISBN-10: 1009628879
ISBN-13: 9781009628877
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Language: English
Published: 06/11/2026
Pages: 420
Format: Hardcover
Weight: 1.60lbs
Size: 9.00h x 6.00w x 0.94d