Translating the Bible in Old English Prose: A Book for Many?

A lecture by Francis Leneghan (University of Oxford) as part of the English Staff-Postgraduate Seminar Series.

The rich corpus of Old English biblical prose remains a missing chapter in the history of the translation of the Bible. This paper will explore how, centuries before the Reformation, Old English prose authors sought to make the sacred words of the Bible available to a wide range of readers, lay and clerical. From the reign of King Alfred (871–99), a partial prose translation of the Psalms survives as well as a free rendering of sections of Exodus and the Acts of the Apostles. By the end of the tenth century, all four gospels and the first seven books of the Old Testament were available in English prose. This widening of access to the Bible was not without its problems; in the eyes of monks such as Ælfric of Eynsham, a little biblical learning on the part of the laity could be a very dangerous thing.

English Staff-Postgraduate Seminar Series is a fortnightly meeting which has been integral to the School of English research community since the 1990s. The aim of the seminar series is to provide a relaxed and convivial atmosphere for staff and students to present their research to their peers. The series also welcomes distinguished guest lecturers from the academic community outside Trinity College to present on their work. It is a fantastic opportunity to share ideas and engage with the diverse research taking place within the School. 

Please indicate if you have any access requirements, such as ISL/English interpreting, so that we can facilitate you in attending this event. Contact: staffpostgradseries@gmail.com