Campbell, Alistair, ed., Tollemache Orosius (Early English Manuscripts in Facsimile, Copenhagen: Rosenkilde and Bagger, 1953).

Text name(s): Tollemache Orosius

Number of pages of primary source text: 173

Medieval Author(s): Alfred Orosius

Dates: 890 - 950

Archival Reference: British Museum Helmingham Hall 46

Original Language(s): English - Anglo-Saxon / Old English; Latin;

Translation: Original language included.

Translation Comments:

Geopolitical Region(s): England;

County/Region:

Apparatus: Bibliography Facsimile Introduction

Comments:

This late 9th or early 10th century English manuscript of the Hormesta or History of the theologian and historian Orosius (c. 385-420) is one of hundreds which survive in numerous translations. This manuscript, commissioned by King Alfred of Wessex, contains a fairly free Old English translation of Orosius’ work. Orosius’ History told the history of humanity from biblical times to his own day in the mid-5th century as a history directed by God. Alfred’s insertions continue this attempt, “updating” Orosius’ work to include English history, including descriptions of Europe and of the voyages of Othere and Wulfstan. The 173 page Tollemache Orosius is an intriguing example of the way in which societies seek to legitimate themselves by claiming continuity with tradition.

Introduction Summary:

This brief (25 pp) introduction provides a codicological analysis of the manuscript, comparing initials and decorations with other extant works to provide a date around the turn of the 10th century. The editor also provides a brief discussion of the Tollemache Orosius as an example of early English nationalism of the sort that is visible in Bede’s Ecclesiastical History.

Cataloger: MCB