Scandinavian Archaeology: Digging Beowulf!
September 28-November 2, 9:30-11:30
~Mara Vejby~
Beowulf is an Anglo-Saxon epic poem that was composed
sometime between the middle of the seventh and end of the tenth
century. The surviving manuscript is known as the Nowell Codex.
Though this Old English text was written down in Britain, the
events it describes are set in Scandinavia. The culture and events
depicted in this saga are at once historical and mythical in their
nature, weaving vivid descriptions of dwellings, artwork, and
weaponry, from the Scandinavian Bronze and Iron ages, with
fantastical details of monsters and dragons.
This course will explore the multiple facets of this saga. It will
cover archaeological materials found in Scandinavia that parallel
descriptions in the text. It will also delve into the significance of
the mythology, and some of the linguistic aspects that add to our
understanding of Scandinavian culture. Additional Norse sagas and
Old English poetry will be drawn upon as appropriate. A pre-reading and familiarity with the
Beowulf saga would be useful but is not required for this course.
Course Outline
Week 1: Introduction to the Beowulf Text: the Nowell
Codex and Old English
Week 2: The Great Hall in Anglo Saxon Society
Week 3: Weaponry: the details of a warrior society
Week 4: Funeral Rites: ship burials and ship settings
Week 5: Treasures in Hoards and Burials: beware of dragons
Week 6: Early Medieval Context: cultural transitions and its effects