A multidisciplinary( History/ philosophy/ cognitive psychology/ linguïstics) enquiry into the role of the ninth century Saxon Gospel Harmony, the Heliand. For thesis, I constructed an interpretive...Show moreA multidisciplinary( History/ philosophy/ cognitive psychology/ linguïstics) enquiry into the role of the ninth century Saxon Gospel Harmony, the Heliand. For thesis, I constructed an interpretive model based on three elements. These elements were: 1 the Interpretation of the Heliand by G.R.R Murphy, 2 Certain theories from H. Versnel's book: Coping with the Gods. Wayward Readings in Greek Theology and 3 elements from the Cognitive Science of Religion(CSR). This model was combined with the historical context of the Heliand and the Saxon Wars, as well as the cultural, religious and mythological world of the continental Saxons. With these elements, the Heliand was analyzed in order to find out how this Gospel Harmony might have worked in aiding the conversion process of the Saxon Lay Elite, after their forced conversion by Charlemagne a generation earlier. By looking at the allusions in the Heliand to the Saxons their old religion, society, or cultural values with the help of the interpretive model, I tried to find out the Heliand its working for the said conversion process of the Saxons.Show less
The Capitulatio is a Carolingian capitulary outling the terms of Frankish rule in recently-conquered pagan Saxony. In a 2006 article in Viator titled "Charlemagne's Jyhad", professor Yitzhak Hen...Show moreThe Capitulatio is a Carolingian capitulary outling the terms of Frankish rule in recently-conquered pagan Saxony. In a 2006 article in Viator titled "Charlemagne's Jyhad", professor Yitzhak Hen suggested an alternative dating in 795 for the infamous capitulary, based on influence of Islamic thought. In this thesis his claims are evaluated. Hen's arguments are analysed and shown to be flawed and his alternative dating unlikely.Show less
