Abstract
This essay offers a reassessment of the relationship between the two main textual recensions of Bede’s Historia ecclesiastica. The evidence for which of the two is earlier is complex and apparently in tension. No previous, simple answer is persuasive. Nonetheless, it is possible to recreate the stages by which the two traditions came about in a way which provides a more comprehensive explanation of the contradictory evidence. This reconstruction shows that Bede was at work on the History almost up until the end of his life. Bede allowed two very slightly different versions of the book to be transcribed and distributed - a pre-final version and a final, final version. In the discrepancies between these, some of Bede’s last revisions to his History can be identified.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
