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The Etiquette of Early Northern Verse: Conway Lectures in Medieval Studies

Ted Simmons

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The Conway Lectures in Medieval Studies are a prestigious series of lectures established in 1928 by the University of London. These lectures are given by leading scholars in the field of medieval studies and cover a wide range of topics, including history, literature, art, and music. In 1956, the Conway lecturer was A.G. Rigg, Professor of English at the University of Sheffield. Rigg's lectures were published in 1973 under the title The Etiquette of Early Northern Verse.

The Etiquette of Early Northern Verse (Conway Lectures in Medieval Studies)

by Roberta Frank

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Language	:	English
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Print length	:	295 pages

Rigg's lectures provide a comprehensive overview of the etiquette of early northern verse, or the conventions that governed the composition and performance of poetry in the north of England during the Middle Ages. Rigg discusses a wide range of topics, including the role of the poet, the relationship between the poet and his audience, and the use of language and imagery in early northern verse.

The Role of the Poet

In early northern verse, the poet was seen as a skilled craftsman who used his words to create beautiful and meaningful works of art. The poet was also seen as a teacher, who could use his poetry to instruct and entertain his audience. Rigg argues that the poet's role in early northern verse was similar to that of the poet in other medieval cultures, such as Anglo-Saxon England and medieval France.

The Relationship between the Poet and his Audience

The relationship between the poet and his audience was a complex one in early northern verse. On the one hand, the poet was seen as a superior being, who was gifted with the ability to create beautiful and meaningful works of art. On the other hand, the poet was also seen as a member of the community, who was responsible for using his poetry to entertain and instruct his audience. Rigg argues that the relationship between the poet and his audience in early northern verse was a dynamic one, which was constantly evolving.

The Use of Language and Imagery in Early Northern Verse

The language and imagery of early northern verse is often characterized by its simplicity and directness. The poets of this period used everyday language to create poetry that was accessible to a wide audience. They also used a variety of images and metaphors to create vivid and memorable works of art. Rigg argues that the language and imagery of early northern verse is an essential part of its appeal, and that it is one of the things that makes this poetry so enduring.

A.G. Rigg's The Etiquette of Early Northern Verse is a valuable contribution to the study of medieval literature. Rigg provides a comprehensive overview of the etiquette of early northern verse, and he offers new insights into the role of the poet, the relationship between the poet and his audience, and the use of language and imagery in early northern verse. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in medieval literature, and it is a valuable resource for scholars and students alike.

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