I remember a man was brought before my father, and the other judges, for kidnapping a boy; and, although he was the son of a chief or senator, he was condemned to make recompense by a man or woman slave
Slavery as punishment is still morally questionable, but at least it wasn't done to innocent people, I guess? I don't know. Slippery slope for sure.
I might say my sufferings were great: but when I compare my lot with that of most of my countrymen, I regard myself as a particular favourite of Heaven, and acknowledge the mercies of Providence in every occurrence of my life.
What a horrible time it was. There is no better form of slavery. It's all slavery. I'm not sure if there's a word to better describe this, but I hope he didn't suffer from a form of survivor's guilt. He seems almost apologetic that he didn't suffer like others. I hope he was able to die peacefully instead of feeling guilt.
People generally think those memoirs only worthy to be read or remembered which abound in great or striking events, those, in short, which in a high degree excite either admiration or pity: all others they consign to contempt and oblivion.
Still pretty true today. People who have accomplished "boring" things don't get nearly the praise that others do.
May the God of heaven inspire your hearts with peculiar benevolence on that important day when the question of Abolition is to be discussed
Again, this is just horrible to read. He's asking people to consider seeing slaves as people. I really admire and respect his ability to be calm while writing this. I'd start making demands.
Equiano worked for King in his stores and along his shipping routes. King educated Equiano and allowed him to earn money on the side, which would eventually be used to buy his own freedom
I want to be happy about this but like... King still bought a person. He still bought a slave. Am I being a pessimist?
A common argument in favor of slavery during his time was that African tribes themselves practiced slavery
So, I'll admit I haven't looked into this myself, but I think the difference was that slaves were tricked into European slavery. They were promised good work conditions and/or the opportunity to work for a living. Again, not sure, but that's what immediately came to mind. Doesn't matter anyways because slavery shouldn't happen anywhere...
He relates some of their customs to similar customs of the Jewish people. In doing this, Equiano shows that all people are connected–specifically black Africans to the Judeo-Christian patriarchy–and portrays the humanity of those who are enslaved and then subjected to inhumane conditions.
This is awful, especially since I feel like I still see people trying to make this point today. I don't understand how you can see someone as "less than" until they're compared to something you care about. It's hard to put my thoughts into words, but basically this is pathetic and sad and shouldn't need to be said.
I found myself much inclined to sleep. I lay down on the grass, which was very short and soft, where I slept sounder than ever I remembered to have done in my life,
Yeah, no, can't imagine that. My anxiety would kick in hard. How is he so comfortable?
(Side note, I just realized I did a lot of annotating on the summary and pretty much nothing here. I have trouble with the older lingo. I promise I listened to the whole story though!)
All of these explanations seem to baffle the Houynhnhnms.
There's a deeper meaning here I'm not getting. Something about other societies being far more civilized. I had a whole theory typed out, but honestly, I thought it sounded like a reach...
He is eventually given passage to Japan where the Empower insists he trample on a crucifix
He insists what.
Gulliver continues on with a quick stop to Glubbdubdrib, or the island of “sorcerers or magicians”
I'm getting Adventure Time vibes. I have a feeling the creator of Adventure Time was inspired by this.
The Grand Academy of Lagado is filled with scientists making projects which are completely useless and serve no purpose to society, such as attempts to extract sunlight from cucumbers or gunpowder from ice.
I said it earlier, but this is the exact type of thing I enjoy reading. It's funny but not aggressively trying to be funny. So thanks for forcing me to read this, professor!
His wife is insistent that he should not leave again but the Gulliver leaves no doubt that his journeys are concluded only for the time being.
Not a huge fan of Gulliver, but he sure is an interesting protagonist. I'm hoping this doesn't end with him dead or seriously hurt because of his journeys.
After becoming ill one day, he is left alone in his box
How appropriate it is that I'm reading this while self-isolating.
Brobdingnagians
Adventure
BOO!!! This is like naming a black and white dog Oreo. Do better.
He went on to write many works under various pseudonyms
Me having a billion different usernames for my art related accounts
Swift writes about a rivalry between political groups of Lilliputians who argue over the importance of a low or high heeled shoe. Many believe these petty squabbles exemplify the rivalry between the Whigs and Tories
Okay, yeah, I already like it. It's the right amount of weird without being corny or childish.
as an allegorical tale of fantastic creatures or as a deeper political commentary on the darker side of human nature.
Honestly one of my favorite types of stories, but I'm super picky about it... so let's see about this.
In case anyone wants a recommendation from me (for some reason), check out the Moomin series. It isn't obviously political on the surface but when you read about the author's life you start to see some commentary on fascism and LGBT acceptance. No idea how it got turned into a kid's cartoon...
becoming friends with talking horses, the Houyhnhnms
I feel like I watched this as a child.
such ill morals are only practised in Christian countries, where they prefer the bare name of religion; and, without virtue or morality, think that sufficient.
Really love when authors add in these subtle digs towards the religious folk of their time. Honestly, they deserved it. They were a pretty crazy bunch back then.
so that nothing else was talked of, no other sound was heard in every corner where there were whisperers, but Imoinda! Imoinda!
Just really like the way this was written. I really feel like I can hear it in my head.
So that having made his first compliments, and presented her an hundred and fifty slaves in fetters,
Hm. Not exactly a gift in my eyes. Maybe just a nice bouquet next time...
His hair came down to his shoulders
Kind of an unrelated rant, but the history of men's hair intrigues me. It's so normal to have long hair in these older tales. Why do I see people call it gay now? Why is it breaking gender norms? Men used to have long hair all the time...
eatable
"fit to be consumed as food." I mean, it was obvious, but I've never heard the term personally.
I do not pretend, in giving you the history of this Royal Slave, to entertain my reader with adventures of a feigned hero, whose life and fortunes fancy may manage at the poet’s pleasure;
Good for her. I'm wondering if she had to write this note because she's a woman. As we know, men thought women were emotional nutcases, so she probably thought "I gotta explain that I'm telling the truth." If she didn't, men would think her uterus traveled to her head again!
Oroonoko decides to kill Imoinda and their unborn child to avoid future suffering, and plans for a revenge. After killing his beloved wife, however, his strength leaves him. His revenge plan falls short, and Oroonoko is tortured and killed.
Jesus Christ. I had a long day and was hoping to relax while doing my homework. Can we read a nice story next time?
“as a woman and onlooker, she can do little except tell his tale to the world”
Sad but iconic quote. Kind of summarizes female literature up until recently.
where she worked for Charles II’s government as a spy in the 1660s (Todd)
Honestly surprised she got this job. Women were discriminated against just for writing, how did people take her seriously as a spy?
Biography
Couldn't choose which part to highlight so I just went with the title. I like this girl. She seems really cool and way ahead of her time.
as soon as they enter’d the City, both Males and Females, young and old, flockt together to see this Lady, holding up their Paws in admiration;
This is also what happens when you start up a new Animal Crossing game. In a way. Maybe I like this because it reminds me of Animal Crossing... a very messed up and dark Animal Crossing that involves kidnapping...
those Bear-like Creatures, how terrible soever they appear’d to her sight, yet were they so far from exercising any cruelty upon her, that rather they shewed her all civility and kindness imaginable;
:)
amongst such wonderful kind of Creatures,
I love to make fun of these stories and their old-timey cliches, but I actually really really like this one. Ever since I was a kid I've gravitated towards things with nice talking animals. I'm weirdly into this.
having carried her out of the Boat, sunk it, together with the dead men.
This is literally a Disney movie. This is Snow White.
the young Lady onely, by the light of her Beauty, the heat of her Youth, and Protection of the Gods, remaining alive
I get the whole God protection part, but heat of her youth? I didn't know heat was associated with youth.
Packet-boat
Is this a kenning?
Love growing more and more vehement upon him
I always saw vehement as a word with negative connotations, but here it's associated with love. So I'm guessing the love is so strong it's literally painful.
And if (Noble Ladies)you should chance to take pleasure in reading these Fancies, I shall account my self a Happy Creatoress: If not, I must be content to live a Melancholly Life in my own World
"If the ladies like my work, I will be happy. Otherwise I will live the rest of my days depressed and isolated."
Yeah, I know how you feel.
joyned
I am never gonna get used to these weird spellings. I wouldn't even call myself the grammar/spelling police but for some reason this bothers me.
Why is the sun hot? What causes wind? How is snow made? Why is the sea salty? What are the elemental materials of life?
Weird that this was deep and unknown back in the day. I think I could answer these and I'm absolutely not a scientist.
she uses her power to ensure that her newly endowed land is free of war, religious diversion, and unfair sexual discrimination
Religious diversion isn't one I expected to see and I'm not entirely sure what that entails. Good on her for ending the other stuff though.
bird-men (astronomers), bear-men (experimental philosophers), ape-men (chemists), lice-men (mathematicians), worm, fish and fly men are natural philosophers
Really love these roles. But like... where did the connections come from? Apes and chemistry? Lice and math? I'm not seeing it.
icy land with various suns
How does the ice not melt 🤔
Her sinne was small, to what you doe commit; All mortall sinnes that doe for vengeance crie, Are not to be compared vnto it:
Hard agree. Yes, they disobeyed God, but it's literally an apple. I really feel like they deserved more forgiveness than they got.
no- ble
More random dashes. My guess is that it's rhythm related.
wo- men
Why is there a dash here? Is it related to the rhythm of the piece or is this just how "women" was written?
Then shall I thinke my Glasse a glorious Skie,
What a suck-up...
Apollo’s beames doe comfort euery creature,
Aw, it means "the sun's beams comfort everyone." Cute.
giue
This is an old-timey way to type "give," if anyone is curious.
Edit: I thought that would be a one time thing. Nope. Every other word is going to bother me..
Her life is largely shrouded in mystery, made all the more interesting by the speculation that she may either be Shakespeare’s “Dark Lady” described in his famous sonnets—or, more compellingly—that she may have authored some of his works herself.
OOOOOOOOH
when she found herself pregnant by Hunsdon, he broke up with her and she was compelled to marry a cousin
This is a complete nightmare to read. Please end my suffering.
Though 45 years her senior
She questions the fairness of the burden of original sin, as it was placed fully on women. She brings to light several reasons why Adam is just as much, if not more, to blame for eating the apple from the tree of knowledge.
Assuming this is what makes her interpretation so unique. I can see why this wasn't well-received. She was ahead of her time.
It is a rallying cry for women, urging them to reflect on their own worth and to question their place in society.
Wow, I wish this piece took off right after it came out. I wonder how it could have changed the course of history if it did.
Salve Deus Rex Judaeorum was not likely well received because it did not gain popularity until many centuries later when it was rediscovered
That makes me sad. She'll never know what kind of influence she had. What if that happens to one of us?
The final poem in Lanyar’s writing was also the first of its kind, being a Country-House poem
One of my predictions from my discussion post has already come true! I said we would likely see some innovation in writing style. Immediately after that, I'm here reading about a new type of poem. Yay me.
unique reading of the Bible
I know I could just, you know, read it and understand what makes her take so different, but this is so interesting to me right off the bat. Everyone interprets the bible so differently. I always thought it was more straightforward than that.
MIRANDA. Alack, what trouble Was I then to you! PROSPERO. O, a cherubin Thou wast that did preserve me. Thou didst smile, Infused with a fortitude from heaven, When I have deck’d the sea with drops full salt, Under my burden groan’d: which rais’d in me An undergoing stomach, to bear up Against what should ensue.
Cute. She's stressed that she was a burden at the time, but he tells her that her smile was actually his motivation to keep going.
I should sin To think but nobly of my grandmother: Good wombs have borne bad sons.
She refuses to look down on her grandmother because it's not her fault that she has a bad son. Miranda seems nice.
Your tale, sir, would cure deafness.
Wow, need to start using this compliment.
Thou attend’st not. MIRANDA. O, good sir! I do.
"And I- you're not even listening."
"Yes I am!!"
Dost thou attend me? MIRANDA. Sir, most heedfully.
"Are you paying attention?"
"As best as I can."
O, my heart bleeds To think o’ th’ teen that I have turn’d you to, Which is from my remembrance. Please you, farther.
I really don't think I'm supposed to find half of this funny, but I do. "Man, I know this hurts to talk about. Keep going though!!"
Sir, are not you my father?
That would be a twist.
a bootless inquisition
Really big fan of this phrase. She's saying that she was always left with unanswered questions.
More to know Did never meddle with my thoughts.
I think this is unintentionally funny. She's never considered that her father has... a personality? And a life before her?
There’s no harm done.
Sir, they are dying.
Who had, no doubt, some noble creature in her,
She's nice. She's saying that there's got to be at least some good people on the ship, so they need to be saved from drowning.
Now would I give a thousand furlongs of sea for an acre of barren ground. Long heath, brown furze, anything. The wills above be done! but I would fain die a dry death.
What makes dying while dry so much better than drowning? Either way... you die.
A confused noise within: “Mercy on us!”— “We split, we split!”—“Farewell, my wife and children!”— “Farewell, brother!”—“We split, we split, we split!”
Saying goodbye to the people they love before they all die.
I’ll warrant him for drowning, though the ship were no stronger than a nutshell, and as leaky as an unstanched wench
"He won't drown, even if the ship was as fragile as a nut shell and as leaky as a woman on her period."
Again, I see the comedy.
Hang, cur, hang, you whoreson, insolent noisemaker! We are less afraid to be drowned than thou art.
I think he's telling him to die...
whoreson
"an unpleasant or greatly disliked person." Gonna be doing a lot of defining for this reading.
you bawling, blasphemous, incharitable dog
What an insult. I guess I see why this is labeled a comedy by some readers.
boson
The only definition I can find for this relates to quantum mechanics. Anyone know what this word means?
Drawn by the strength of yoky dragons’ necks
Yoky refers to the thing they put around animal necks to keep them next to each other while they pull something. Looks like this
Nan Spit
Capitalized. Is this a name? A title? Whenever I google it I get pdf copies of this story for results.
RALPH. Why, Robin, what book is that? ROBIN. What book! why, the most intolerable book for conjuring that e’er was invented by any brimstone devil.
Again, I love the dialogue in this story. It reminds me of Monty Python.
AUSTUS. Thanks, Mephistophilis: yet fain would I have a book wherein I might behold all spells and incantations, that I might raise up spirits when I please. MEPHIST. Here they are in this book. [Turns to them.] FAUSTUS. Now would I have a book where I might see all characters and planets of the heavens, that I might know their motions and dispositions. MEPHIST. Here they are too. [Turns to them.] FAUSTUS. Nay, let me have one book more,–and then I have done,– wherein I might see all plants, herbs, and trees, that grow upon the earth. MEPHIST. Here they be. FAUSTUS. O, thou art deceived. MEPHIST. Tut, I warrant thee. [Turns to them.]
I find this comical. It's like cartoon dialogue.
And cannot live without a wife.
This man has terrible judgment and weird priorities. Maybe he needs to be taught a lesson.
the CLOWN runs up and down crying
Me.
potentate
"a monarch or ruler, especially an autocratic one."
MEPHIST. I am a servant to great Lucifer, And may not follow thee without his leave: No more than he commands must we perform. FAUSTUS. Did not he charge thee to appear to me? MEPHIST. No, I came hither[55] of mine own accord.
"I am a servant of Lucifer and I only do what he says." "Did he ask you to see me?" "No. I did that myself."
Hm.
anagrammatiz’d,
Anagrammatized? Never heard 'anagram' used like that. The more you know...
I am by nature phlegmatic,
Is phlegmatic a religious term? I've heard it before and know what it means but is it only supposed to be used in a religious context?
That will receive no object; for my head But ruminates on necromantic skill.
I think this line means "I've been thinking about picking up necromancy." Which makes me laugh for some reason.
Sweet Analytics
What does this mean?? Sweet Analytics?
Calvinist theory suggests that salvation is a reward from God rather than a reward for human effort
Mostly highlighting so I can easily find the definition again.
After the conversation with the devil, a good angel and an evil angel appear to talk to Doctor Faustus.
Is this the origin of the angel on one shoulder and devil on the other shoulder trope? It's in a bunch of animated movies and cartoons.
twenty-four years.
Any symbolism for the number 24? It's really specific. 20 would have made more sense because it's even and ends in a 0. 24 though... that means something.
Mephistophilis
I think when you look into his name meaning it can be translated to "scatterer of lies." It's fuzzy but that's what I got.
bored with all other subjects
Naw. There's no way he's tried everything. I think he should consider knitting before necromancy.
the chief lord of paradise
Never heard this phrase before. Is it a thing people say? Is it an older phrase? Or was the phrase intentionally created to stretch out the sentence and fit the rhythm of the poem?
Death.
Death, in this story, is so dramatic and pessimistic to me. I mean... it's Death. So it makes sense. But I don't know, a twist on the typical death character would be nice.
And remember Beauty, Five-wits, Strength, and Discretion, They all at the last do Everyman forsake, Save his Good-Deeds, there doth he take.
Reiterating the point that Good Deeds are the most important thing to do while you're alive. Does the Doctor count as a narrator since they break the fourth wall for their entire one line?
Take example, all ye that this do hear or see,
Fourth wall break?
To Confession, that cleansing river.
I really love the idea of Confession being a river. Washing away your sins and worries is such a common analogy that it makes sense.
Till that I go to my Good-Deed, But alas, she is so weak, That she can neither go nor speak;
It was already covered in the summary, but this is the point when we learn selfishness harms Good Deed. I think this moment is a turning point for the rest of the story.
Of ghostly sight the people be so blind,
I'm interpreting this as "the people are no longer spiritual." The "ghostly sight" means seeing and connecting with the dead and spirits. People are blind to them, meaning they're unholy.
God
The format of this one is new to me. I can tell that these parts indicate who's speaking. Is it like this in the original text or was it added for easier understanding?
Everyman
I think this is still a phrase I hear today... I think. I love how on the nose it is. It means, very literally "every man is a sinner."
usury
"the illegal action or practice of lending money at unreasonably high rates of interest."
So grant you each his pardon to receive; For that is best; I will not you deceive.
BOOO!!! PUNISH THEM!!!
Your names I’ll enter on my roll, anon, And into Heaven’s bliss you’ll go, each one.
They're going to Heaven? After they all just killed each other? Man. I enjoy knowing a little more about literature, but these stories have such unsatisfying endings. First the rapist ends up happy and now this.
Now let us sit and drink and so be merry, And afterward we will his body bury.” And as he spoke, one bottle of the three 600 He took wherein the poison chanced to be And drank and gave his comrade drink also, For which, and that anon, lay dead these two.
Agreeing with the other annotation I read. Super unsatisfying ending. "They all died! The end!"
This wicked man the poison took along With him boxed up, and then he straightway ran Into the street adjoining, to a man, 585 And of him borrowed generous bottles three; And into two his poison then poured he; The third one he kept clean for his own drink.
Talk about backstabbing. I don't like any of these dudes. I have a feeling they'll all die by the end of the tale.
But certainly by day this may not be; For men would say that we were robbers strong, And we’d, for our own treasure, hang ere long. 505 This treasure must be carried home by night All prudently and slyly, out of sight. So I propose that cuts among us all
He's saying that if they take all of the treasure in the middle of the day, people will think they're thieves. They have to wait until night time to take all of it.
“Now,” said the first, “we’re two, and I dare say The two of us are stronger than is one. 540 Watch when he sits, and soon as that is done Arise and make as if with him to play; And I will thrust him through the two sides, yea, The while you romp with him as in a game, And with your dagger see you do the same;
Their greed is going to lead to them killing their friend. I'm sure Death will have something to say about this.
Shall run to town at once, and to the mart, And fetch us bread and wine here, privately.
"We need supplies so we can wait until night time to take all of this home." Another thing that I see going hideously wrong.
Till he came to that tree; and there they found, Of florins of fine gold, new-minted, round,
Predicting that this is a trick and will lead to a lesson on greediness.
You spoke just now of that same traitor Death,
Personifying death again and depicting him as an evil person with bad intentions. Which makes sense. But I feel like maybe death would have better judgment on this than 3 drunk dudes.
O my dear mother, let me in! Lo, how I’m wasted, flesh and blood and skin! Alas! When shall my bones come to their rest?
Strange to see that death is a blessing for some. Maybe Death isn't all that bad of a guy. He helps some people.
The three men decide to stop and kill Death
Well, I guess that's one way to handle it.
An unseen thief, called Death, came stalking by, 390 Who hereabouts makes all the people die,
Personification of death. This is something we still see in literature today. Interesting that it's such a long-running literary tradition.
That is for sale in Fish Street or in Cheap.
What is Fish Street? Is that an analogy?
Whose end is death, whose belly is their god.”
Flowery way of saying "gluttony."
But at the last replied as you shall hear: “My lady and my love, and wife so dear, I put myself in your wise governing; Do you choose which may be the more pleasing, And bring most honour to you, and me also. 1240 I care not which it be of these things two; For if you like it, that suffices me.”
Love seeing everything come together. I can't say I'm a huge fan of their relationship, but it's great that she finally got an opportunity to choose.
I am your own true love and, more, your wife; And I am she who saved your very life; And truly, since I’ve never done you wrong, 1100 Why do you treat me so, this first night long?
Girl. You kinda tricked him into marrying you.
“My love?” cried he, “nay, rather my damnation!
Oh, the ol' ball and chain...
“Alas and welaway!
I LOVE this exclamation. That is all.
In all the court there was no wife or maid 1050 Or widow that denied the thing he said, But all held, he was worthy to have life.
So if you answer a little riddle you can get away with rape?
“Give me your promise here, hand in hand,” said she, “That you will do, whatever it may be, The thing I ask if it lie in your might; And I’ll give you your answer before the night.” “Have here my word,” said he. “That thing I grant.”
I already know how this ends because of the summary, and I'm still frowning at my screen. Why did everyone in these stories have terrible judgment? Don't agree to this!!
She laid her mouth low to the water down: 980 “Betray me not, you sounding water blown,” Said she, “I tell it to none else but you:
Hey, in her defense, water can't tell the secret. So technically it's still just between them.
And some say, too, that we do love the best To be quite free to do our own behest, And that no man reprove us for our vice, But saying we are wise, take our advice.
It's really sad to see the amount of women in these tales who just want to live a free life.
But that the other ladies and the queen So long prayed of the king to show him grace, He granted life, at last, in the law’s place,
I don't understand why they wanted him to live, so I've been thinking and researching a little. I think rape, in this period, is really only a crime if the woman didn't end up pregnant. Pregnancy would have justified it in their eyes. This just looks like a "mistake."
Sir Lecher old, let your seductions be!
Is she accusing him of cheating?
The three were good men and were rich and old.
I definitely think this is a subtle way to say "they were easily swayed/controlled."
But no specific number mentioned He, Whether of bigamy or octogamy; Why should men speak of it reproachfully?
She has a point. I imagine this was considered a hot take in this time period, so I appreciate her willingness to stand up for herself.
She gives him the answer to the question and shares it with the Queen. She is pleased and releases him so his life is spared.
Not what I expected. Not what I wanted.
If the knight can’t find the answer to the question then he will be killed.
Adding to Maxwell's idea, I haven't spoiled it for myself so maybe this will be immediately shot down, but I'm predicting that this is an impossible question so that King Arthur can "justifiably" kill him.
The tale starts off with this Knight who has raped a young woman and for some reason the Queen wants to show him favor.
JESUS CHRIST.
The prologue is twice as long as the actual tale itself.
At that point, they should just make the prologue part of the tale.
Living in bliss, in riches, and in health; 2245 And Emily loved him so tenderly, And he served her so well and faithfully, That never word once marred their happiness, No jealousy, nor other such distress. Thus ends now Palamon and Emily; 2250 And may God save all this fair company! Amen.
At least they're happy. I'm still mad on her behalf. 
And by eternal written word confirmed, That you shall be the wife of one of those Who bear for you so many cares and woes;
BOOOO!!! Why is no one protecting her? It's so frustrating to read how women are treated in these times.
I do not crave the company of man.
Felt that.
Chaste goddess, well indeed thou knowest that I Desire to be a virgin all my life, Nor ever wish to be man’s love or wife. I am, thou know’st, yet of thy company, 1450 A virgin, who loves the hunt and venery, And to go rambling in the greenwood wild, And not to be a wife and be with child.
This makes me so sad. I'm not sure what the current reputation of this story is, but I could never depict anything here as "love." She doesn't want this, but she's being forced because 2 men decided she's pretty and therefore they want to marry her. I hope she runs away from the winner!!
O my dear cousin Palamon,” said he, “Yours is the victory, and that is sure,
Man... seeing a pretty girl isn't amazing enough to balance out being in prison. Why do so many older stories see love like this? Did anyone get to know each other back in the day?
They fought all day, and yet their gain was none.
Another thing I wasn't expecting to laugh at. "They fought all day for no reason."
Whether she is a woman or goddess! 300 Yours is a worship as of holiness, While mine is love, as of a mortal maid;
Oh come on. You're BOTH worshipping her holiness. Neither of you have even spoken to her!!
To me, who am your cousin and your brother,
Cousin AND brother? I know dating your family members wasn't exactly uncommon, but I feel like one of these phrases is more symbolic than literal. Brother might mean "friend."
“The virgin beauty slays me suddenly Of her that wanders yonder in that place; And save I have her pity and her grace, That I at least may see her day by day, I am as good as dead; there’s no more to say.”
He thinks she's so pretty that he could die. I think. What a compliment.
But I was wounded lately through the eye
Not usually how you'd say you think a girl is pretty. Oh, how language evolves.
Of Saturn did our horoscopes affect
I would love to understand this a little more. I don't know much about planet symbolism though, so if anyone knows exactly what this line means please tell me.
Why did you cry out? Who’s offended you?
Never thought such old literature would actually get a small laugh out of me.
And of those two Arcita was the one, The other knight was known as Palamon.
I don't think it's important to the story, but I do wonder if they're friends or related. Or just have some sort of history.
In searching through the heap of enemy dead,
Searching through bodies? I didn't enjoy that image at all.
Until he came to Thebes and did alight Full in the field where he’d intent to fight. But to be brief in telling of this thing, With Creon, who was Thebes’ dread lord and king, He fought and slew him, manfully, like knight, 130 In open war, and put his host to flight; And by assault he took the city then, Levelling wall and rafter with his men; And to the ladies he restored again The bones of their poor husbands who were slain,
This happens so quickly in writing that it makes the task look easy. Clearly he's a powerful warrior.
red Mars,
As mentioned in another annotation, Mars is the god of war. I'd like to add that red is also typically associated with anger and revenge.
To buried be, or burned, nor will relent, But sets his dogs to eat them, out of spite.”
I really want to know how common it was to just feed bodies to your dogs. I feel like cremation would have been easier. If nothing, cleaner...
in a trice
Trice means "quickly."
many birds un-blithe upon bare twigs
The birds are unhappy. Un-blithe means "not blithe." Blithe means happiness.
when the cold clear water from the clouds shed,
More alliteration, it makes the work more fun to read/listen to (since I use the text to speech extension).
than green enamel on gold glowing the brighter
I know the story involves dishonesty. Green is sort of associated with natural things (authenticity) while gold can be viewed as materialism or selfishness. I think I'm definitely reaching but maybe the green is supposed to represent honesty...?
bright green
Green is obviously a big deal in this story. Off the top of my head, I associate green with life, nature, rebirth, and other things in that area. I don't see this being super related to the story itself though? Maybe I'm accidently skipping over some nature appreciation parts.
And all garbed in green this giant and his gear: a straight coat full tight that stuck to his sides, a magnificent mantle above, masked within with pelts pared pertly, the garment agleam
The alliteration here is very pleasing to me. I think it's alliteration, anyway. Is there a minimum amount of words necessary for something to be counted as alliteration?
But Arthur would not eat till all were served, he was so joyous a youth, and somewhat boyish:
I saw another annotation that said they thought kings eat first. I don't know anything about this tradition, but assuming kings did eat first, I think the author is calling him boyish and referencing his "youth" to explain that Arthur is forward thinking. He has new ideas, he isn't old and stuck in his ways.
the comeliest king
Didn't know this word. Tried to google it and google thought I meant "complicit." Super old word for attractive.
This king lay at Camelot nigh on Christmas
Christmas has pagan and Christian meaning right? So this is one of those pieces of the story that shows "Christian and pagan beliefs [existing] side by side."
then,
I just think the structure is really interesting. I imagine someone taking a deep breath when they read these parts.
The adventure that you have heard is no vain fable. Verily and indeed it chanced as I have said. The Lay of the Were-Wolf, truly, was written that it should ever be borne in mind.
A true story? Is it possible my dad is a werewolf and that's why he "travels for work"?
bit the nose from her visage
What's the symbolism behind her nose specifically? I feel like it would have meant a lot to take an eye, it could mean something related to judging appearances. I can't think of any nose symbolism though.
With one consent the household deemed that this deed was done with full reason, and that the Wolf had suffered at the knight’s hand some bitter wrong.
I LOVE that everyone jumped to take his side. Not what I was expecting at all.
“Lords,” cried he, “hasten hither, and see this marvellous thing. Here is a beast who has the sense of man. He abases himself before his foe, and cries for mercy, although he cannot speak. Beat off the hounds, and let no man do him harm. We will hunt no more to-day, but return to our own place, with the wonderful quarry we have taken.”
I mean, at least he's showing mercy, but I'm 100% sure this will go wrong. He's gonna treat him like a pet or a slave, probably.
Thus, by the kiss of his wife, was Bisclavaret betrayed.
These maidens ain't loyal...
became sanguine of visage
I know the meaning of each of these words alone, but I feel like it doesn't make sense in context. She's blushing from fear?
“Fair wife, that will I never. If I should lose my raiment, or even be marked as I quit my vesture, then a Were-Wolf I must go for all the days of my life.
I giggled at this. This is definitely my favorite story. I've never seen werewolf lore that was dependent on the presence of clothing.
For three whole days in every week her lord was absent from her side. She knew not where he went, nor on what errand.
She needs to follow him. How can you let this become the norm?!
that many a christened man has suffered this change, and ran wild in woods, as a Were-Wolf
So they're just... normal? It's pretty common to become a werewolf? Alrighty.
more sweetly flushed than the new born rose in time of summer heat
Admittedly I don't know anything about growing roses. Are they actually more red when "born" in summer? Or is the word summer another way to compliment her by saying she's bright and warm?
negative effects of romantic love
Wondering if this was chosen to be annotated after the Love & Marriage text because of the similarities, both of them mention (or just imply) that relationships can be negative influences, especially for women.
we have an ironic role reversal from the typical romantic trope.
I like her. I appreciate the progressiveness. Every other piece we've read was progressive in its own way, but this feels like it means more. Maybe that's just me.
only literate women in medieval society
I assumed men in similar roles were also the only literate ones. By this point, were most men literate?
her true given name is unknown
Really sad, in my opinion. This is also a problem in art history. It seems like women's works aren't documented as well as the work of their male counterparts.
had been mown down
Never seen the word "mown" in this context. Strange how language evolves, assuming it has the meaning I think it does.
Dearest Wiglaf, under the gray stone Where the dragon is laid out, lost to his treasure; Hurry to feast your eyes on the hoard. Away you go: I want to examine That ancient gold, gaze my fill On those garnered jewels; my going will be easier For having seen the treasure, a less troubled letting-go
He thinks he can peacefully die by looking at all his financial rewards. Was Beowulf ever truly happy with saving people, or did he live to be praised and rich?
Beowulf spoke: in spite of his wounds, Mortal wounds, he still spoke
"Wounds" has a double meaning here, I feel. Yeah, he's dying, but he's also got a wounded ego. I don't think he expected to die from any battle.
Inspired again By the thought of glory,
But not inspired by a desire to protect. Not a good mentality for a warrior to have.
Yet the prince of the rings was too proud To line up with a large army Against the sky-plague. He had scant regard For the dragon as a threat, no dread at all
Exactly what I mean when I say Beowulf is full of himself. He was so proud of and invested in his previous achievements that he started to go about his choices in an unwise way. Could he have lived if he had a different attitude?
“Well, friend Unferth, you have had your say 530 About Breca and me. But it was mostly beer That was doing the talking. The truth is this: When the going was heavy in those high waves, I was the strongest swimmer of all.
I really feel like Beowulf is just full of himself and his ego motivates him to do what he does later in the story. I feel like he looks at himself as equal to God, or at the very least chosen by a God.
It threw the hero Into deep anguish and darkened his mood: The wise man thought he must have thwarted Ancient ordinance of the eternal Lord, 2330 Broken His commandment.
I feel like this makes Beowulf look selfish. Sure, he's important and he's saved a lot of people, but why does he think bad luck is actually divine intervention intended to punish him? Maybe it was just... an accident, Beowulf?
Cain’s clan, whom the creator had outlawed And condemned as outcasts. For the killing of Abel The Eternal Lord had exacted a price: Cain got no good from committing that murder Because the Almighty made him anathema
Cain and Abel seems to be the only specific bible story mentioned, unless I missed one. Lots of murder commentary going on in this story.
Afterwards a boy-child was born to Shield, A cub in the yard, a comfort sent By God to that nation.
I understand that it was the norm to follow God at the time, but I find this really ironic considering how ultimately Beowulf chose an ugodly route to save his people.
[XXXXXXXXXXXXXX] [XXXX] shined [XXXXXXXXXX] [XXXX] adroit ancient
I wish this poem was completed, however I really love the (accidental?) symbolism of the censored parts. The summary says the poem is about a destroyed city. The poem, in a way, reflects the city. It's incomplete and no longer the same due to missing pieces.
cuckoo
I'm noticing the author frequently mentions birds. This makes sense, the anonymous writer is constantly at sea rather than being in one specific place for too long. Birds are the same way and often represent freedom.
gannet
Had to look up gannet. It's a type of bird that gathers its food (fish) by diving. I also saw that it could be slang for a greedy person, but I'm not sure if that's a recent definition.
It will be well for him who seeks the favor, the comfort from our father in heaven, where a fortress stands for us all.
This reminds me of the chapter Middle Ages. Christianity was adopted in the Roman Empire and many of the works referenced looking to God in times of chaos. This poem is no exception, but instead of shaming the English people into praying, God is shown as a form of comfort.
The spirits of seabirds do not bring many familiar voices there.
In the previous line, he spoke about memories of kins. I think seabirds is probably just a sweet way to refer to said kin and they aren't actually birds. They're spirits now because, as the last line said, they swam away.
ice and snow falling down, mixed with hail.
This line keeps up the winter references, but I think it also adds some feeling. Ice and snow are usually peaceful, but hail is destructive and scary. This kind of contrast usually has a deeper meaning.
the Measurer’s
This is capitalized in a way that reminds me of people capitalizing God, so I'm pretty sure this is a name for God. I've never heard "the Measurer" before. What is God measuring? Where did this title come from?
the way of the world is ever an open book.
This line seems really positive compared to the rest of the poem. In my eyes, it means "anything could happen," almost like the lone-dweller starts off with a positive attitude.
slaughter of the wrathful
I love how dramatic this phrase is, but who specifically is the wrathful?
his own favor
I feel like this could be interpreted many different ways and I'm curious to know exactly what it means. Is he waiting for something to work out for him after he lost his lord?