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diff --git a/.gitattributes b/.gitattributes new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6833f05 --- /dev/null +++ b/.gitattributes @@ -0,0 +1,3 @@ +* text=auto +*.txt text +*.md text diff --git a/15879-8.txt b/15879-8.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..abb85a7 --- /dev/null +++ b/15879-8.txt @@ -0,0 +1,3622 @@ +The Project Gutenberg EBook of Elene; Judith; Athelstan, or the Fight at +Brunanburh; Byrhtnoth, or the Fight at Maldon; and the Dream of the Rood, by Anonymous + +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with +almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: Elene; Judith; Athelstan, or the Fight at Brunanburh; Byrhtnoth, or the Fight at Maldon; and the Dream of the Rood + Anglo-Saxon Poems + +Author: Anonymous + +Translator: James M. Garnett + +Release Date: May 23, 2005 [EBook #15879] + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1 + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK ELENE AND OTHERS *** + + + + +Produced by David Starner, Annika Feilbach and the Online +Distributed Proofreading Team. (www.pgdp.net) + + + + + + + + + +ELENE; + +JUDITH; + +ATHELSTAN, OR THE FIGHT AT BRUNANBURH; + +BYRHTNOTH, OR THE FIGHT AT MALDON; + +AND + +THE DREAM OF THE ROOD: + +Anglo-Saxon Poems. + + +TRANSLATED BY + +JAMES M. GARNETT, M.A., LL.D., + +FORMERLY PROFESSOR OF THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE IN THE +UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA; TRANSLATOR OF "BÉOWULF." + + +_THIRD EDITION._ + + +BOSTON, U.S.A.: +GINN & COMPANY, PUBLISHERS. +The Athenæum Press. +1911. + + +Entered, according to Act of Congress, in the year 1889, by +JAMES M. GARNETT, +In the Office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington. + +COPYRIGHT, 1900, BY +JAMES M. GARNETT. + +COPYRIGHT, 1911, BY +JAMES M. GARNETT. + +ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. + + + + +TO PROFESSOR FRANCIS A. MARCH + +CORYPHÆUS OF OLD ENGLISH STUDIES IN AMERICA + +WITH SENTIMENTS OF THE HIGHEST REGARD + + + + +CONTENTS. + + + PAGE + +PREFACE vii + +INTRODUCTION ix + + * * * * * + +ELENE. + + I. Constantine sees the vision of the rood 1 + + II. Constantine is victorious, the sign is explained, and he is + baptized 4 + + III. Helena sets out on her journey in search of the cross, and + arrives at Jerusalem 7 + + IV. Helena summons an assembly of the Jews learned in the law, + and addresses them 10 + + V. The Jews consult apart, and Judas states the object of the + Empress 13 + + VI. Judas gives the Jews the information derived from his + father and grandfather 16 + + VII. The Jews at first refuse to act, but finally deliver up + Judas to the Empress 19 + +VIII. Judas stubbornly denies all knowledge of the matter, but + after imprisonment without food consents to speak 21 + + IX. They proceed to Calvary, and Judas offers a prayer for + guidance 24 + + X. A smoke arises, Judas digs and finds three crosses. Test of + the true cross 27 + + XI. The fiend laments that he is overcome. Judas replies to him 30 + + XII. Helena announces the discovery to Constantine, who orders a + church to be built on the spot. Judas is baptized 32 + +XIII. Judas is ordained bishop of Jerusalem, and his name is + changed to Cyriacus. Helena longs to recover the nails. + Judas prays, digs, and finds them 35 + + XIV. The nails are made into a bit for Constantine's horse. + Helena admonishes all to obey Cyriacus and returns home 38 + + XV. The writer reflects on his work, records his name; and + refers to the future judgment 41 + + + * * * * * + +JUDITH. + + IX. * * * * * * * * * * + Holofernes prepares a banquet 44 + + X. Holofernes and his guests carouse. Judith is brought to his + tent. Holofernes enters and falls on his bed in a drunken + sleep. Judith prays for help, and cuts off the head of + Holofernes 45 + + XI. Judith returns with the head of Holofernes to Bethulia. The + people meet her in crowds. She exhorts the warriors to + sally forth at dawn. They fall upon the Assyrians 49 + + XII. The Assyrians discover the death of Holofernes and become + panic-stricken. The Hebrews pursue them in flight, plunder + the slain, and bestow upon Judith the arms and treasure of + Holofernes 53 + + * * * * * + +ATHELSTAN, OR THE FIGHT AT BRUNANBURH. + +Athelstan and Edmund, with their West-Saxons and Mercians, +slaughter the Scots and Northmen. Constantine and his Scots flee +to their homes in the North. Anlaf and his Northmen flee across +the sea to Dublin. Athelstan and Edmund return home in triumph, +and leave the corpses to the raven, the eagle, and the wolf 57 + + * * * * * + +BYRHTNOTH, OR THE FIGHT AT MALDON. + +* * * * * * * * * * * +Byrhtnoth and his East-Saxons are drawn up on the bank of the +Panta. The wikings' herald demands tribute. Byrhtnoth angrily +offers arms for tribute. Wulfstan defends the bridge. Byrhtnoth +proudly permits the wikings to cross. The fight rages. Byrhtnoth +is wounded. He slays the foe. He is wounded again. He prays to +God to receive his soul, and is hewn down by the heathen men. +Godric flees on Byrhtnoth's horse. His brothers follow him. +Ælfwine encourages the men to avenge the death of their lord. So +does Offa, who curses Godric. Leofsunu will avenge his lord or +perish. Dunnere also. Others follow their example. Offa is slain +and many warriors. The fight still rages. The aged Byrhtwold +exhorts them to be the braver as they become the fewer. So does +another Godric, not he who fled. * * * * 60 + + * * * * * + +THE DREAM OF THE ROOD. + +In the middle of the night the writer beholds the vision of a +cross decked with gold and jewels, but soiled with blood. +Presently the cross speaks and tells how it was hewn and set up +on a mount. Almighty God ascended it to redeem mankind. It bent +not, but the nails made grievous wounds, and it was moistened +with blood. All creation wept. The corse was placed in a +sepulchre of brightest stone. The crosses were buried, but the +thanes of the Lord raised it begirt with gold and silver, and it +should receive honor from all mankind. The Lord of Glory honored +it, who arose for help to men, and shall come again with His +angels to judge each one of men. Then they will fear and know not +what to say, but no one need fear who bears in his heart the best +of beacons. The writer is ready for his journey, and directs his +prayer to the rood. His friends now dwell in glory, and the rood +of the Lord will bring him there where he may partake of joy with +the saints. The Lord redeemed us, His Son was victorious, and +with a band of spirits entered His heavenly home 71 + + + + +PREFACE. + + +This translation of the ELENE was made while reading the poem with a +post-graduate student in the session of 1887-88, Zupitza's second +edition being used for the text, which does not differ materially from +that in his third edition (1888). It was completed before I received a +copy of Dr. Weymouth's translation (1888), from Zupitza's text; but in +the revision for publication I have referred to it, although I cannot +always agree with the learned scholar in his interpretation of certain +passages. Grein's text was, however, used to fill _lacunæ_, and in the +revision the recently published (1888) Grein-Wülker text was compared in +some passages. The line-for-line form has been employed, as in my +translation of BÉOWULF; for it has been approved by high authority, and +is unquestionably more serviceable to the student, even if I have not +been able to attain ideal correctness of rhythm. I plead guilty in +advance to any _lapsus_ in that respect, but I strongly suspect that I +have appreciated the difficulty more highly than my future critics. The +ELENE is more suitable than the BÉOWULF for first reading in Old English +poetry on account of its style and its subject, which make the +interpretation considerably easier, and I concur with Körting, in his +_Grundriss der Geschichte der Englischen Litteratur_ (p. 47, 1887): "Die +ELENE eignet sich sowohl wegen ihres anmutigen Inhaltes, als auch, weil +sie in der trefflichen Ausgabe von Zupitza leicht zugänglich ist, als +erste poetische Lectüre für Anfänger im Angelsächsischen." This +statement is now the stronger for English readers because Zupitza's text +is in course of publication, edited with introduction, notes, and +glossary by Professor Charles W. Kent, of the University of Tennessee. +I have appended a few notes which explain themselves, and have +occasionally inserted words in brackets. + +The translations of the JUDITH and the BYRHTNOTH were made in regular +course of reading with undergraduate classes, the former in 1886, and +the latter in 1887, the texts in Sweet's "Anglo-Saxon Reader" being +used, and compared with those in Grein and in Körner. The text of JUDITH +is now accessible in Professor Cook's edition (1888). + +The translation of the ATHELSTAN has been added from Körner's text, +compared with Grein and Wülker, and in certain passages with Thorpe and +Earle. For fuller literary information than the Introduction provides, +the reader is referred to ten Brink's "Early English Literature," +Kennedy's translation (1883), and to Morley's "English Writers," Vol. +II. (1888). + +JAMES M. GARNETT. + +UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA, VA., +May, 1889. + + + + +PREFACE TO EDITION OF 1900. + + +I have added to this reprint of my "Elene and other Anglo Saxon Poems" a +translation of the DREAM OF THE ROOD, which has been on hand for several +years awaiting a suitable time to see the light. A brief Introduction to +the poem has been prefixed, which, doubtless, leaves much to be desired, +but it is all that the translator now has time for, and I must refer to +the works mentioned for fuller information and discussion. With thanks +for past consideration, and the hope that this addition has made the +book more acceptable, I entrust it again to indulgent readers. + +JAMES M. GARNETT. + +BALTIMORE, MARYLAND, +October, 1900. + + + + +PREFACE TO EDITION OF 1911. + + +I have read over carefully these translations with a view to another +reprint, which the publishers find necessary, but I have not compared +them again with the texts used. I have corrected a few typographical +errors of little importance. + +For the bibliography I would refer to Brandl's _Sonderausgabe aus der +zweiten Auflage von Paul's Grundriss der germanischen Philologie_ +(Strassburg, 1908), in which I find noted Holthausen's edition of the +ELENE (Heidelberg, 1905), but I have not seen it. + +I take advantage of this opportunity to say that my translation of +BÉOWULF, of which the last reprint was issued in 1910, is not in +_prose_, as some have misconceived it, but it is in the same metrical +form as the translations in the present volume,--an accentual metre in +rough imitation of the original. I agree with Professor Gummere and +others that this is a better form for the translation of Old English +poetry than plain prose. It was approved by the late Professor Child +nearly _thirty_ years ago, as noted in the Preface to the second edition +of my translation of BÉOWULF, January, 1885. + +JAMES M. GARNETT. + +BALTIMORE, MARYLAND, +February, 1911. + + + + +INTRODUCTION. + + +In presenting to the public the following translations of the Old +English (Anglo-Saxon) poems, ELENE, JUDITH, ATHELSTAN, BYRHTNOTH, and +THE DREAM OF THE ROOD, it is desirable to prefix a brief account of them +for the information of the general reader. + +I. The ELENE, or Helena, is a poem on the expedition of the Empress +Helena, mother of Constantine the Great, the first Christian emperor, to +Palestine in search of the true cross, and its successful issue. The +mediæval legend of the Finding of the Cross is given in the _Acta +Sanctorum_ under date of May 4, assigned by the Church to the +commemoration of St. Helena's marvellous discovery. The Latin work is +the Life of St. Quiriacus, or Cyriacus, Bishop of Jerusalem, that is, +the Judas of the poem. It has been usually thought that the Old English +poet used this Life as his source; but Glöde, in a recent volume of +_Anglia_ (IX. 271 ff.), has given reasons for thinking that the poet +used some other Latin text. He rejects ten Brink's conjecture that the +legend of Elene had come to England in a Greek form. As to the author of +the poem, we know his name, but very little else about him. He has left +us his name, imbedded in runic letters as an acrostic, in the last canto +of the poem, q.v. These letters spell the word CYNEWULF; but who was +Cynewulf? The question is hard to answer, and has given rise to much +discussion, which cannot be gone into here. A good summary of it will be +found in Wülker's _Grundriss zur Geschichte der Angelsächsischen +Litteratur_ (p. 147 ff., 1885), an indispensable work for students of +Old English literature. The old view, propounded in the infancy of +Anglo-Saxon studies, and held by Kemble, Thorpe, and, doubtfully, +Wright, that he was the Abbot of Peterborough and Bishop of Winchester +(992-1008), has been abandoned by all scholars, so far as I know, except +Professor Earle of Oxford (see his "Anglo-Saxon Literature," p. 228). +The later view of Leo, Dietrich, Grein and Rieger, our chief +authorities, that he was a Northumbrian, and of Dietrich and Grein, that +he was Bishop of Lindisfarne (737-780), has more to be said for it. +Sweet and ten Brink also hold that he was a Northumbrian of the eighth +century, but not the Bishop of Lindisfarne, while Wülker regards him as +a West-Saxon. Professor Henry Morley, in the current edition of his +"English Writers," has devoted a chapter (Vol. II. Chap. IX., 1888) to +Cynewulf, and virtually concludes that we know nothing about him except +that he was a poet and probably lived in the eighth century. We shall +not go far wrong in regarding him as a Northumbrian poet of the eighth +century, possibly the Bishop of Lindisfarne, even though his works +remain to us only in the West-Saxon dialect. As in the ELENE, so in the +CHRIST and the JULIANA, Cynewulf has left us his name, hence all agree +in ascribing to him these poems at least. To these some of the RIDDLES, +if not all, are usually added, but this is now contested. Other poems, +as the GUTHLAC, PHOENIX, CHRIST'S DESCENT INTO HELL, ANDREAS, DREAM OF +THE ROOD, and several other shorter poems, have been ascribed to him +with more or less probability, and very recently Sarrazin (in _Anglia_, +IX. 515 ff.) would credit him with the authorship of even the +BÉOWULF(!). We might as well assign to him, as has been suggested, all +the poems in the two great manuscripts, the Exeter Book and the Vercelli +Book, and be done with it. It is desirable that his authorship of the +DREAM OF THE ROOD, which ten Brink and Sweet assign to him, but Wülker +rejects, should be proved or disproved; for with this is connected the +question of his Northumbrian origin, and some lines from this poem have +been inscribed in the Northumbrian dialect on the Ruthwell Cross in +Dumfriesshire. + +However it may be, a poet named Cynewulf wrote the ELENE, and thereby +left us one of the finest Old English poems that time has preserved, on +a subject that was of great interest to Christian Europe. A collection +of "Legends of the Holy Rood" has been issued by the Early English Text +Society (ed. Morris, 1871), from the Anglo-Saxon period to Caxton's +translation of the _Legenda Aurea_; but they are arranged without +system, and no study has been made of the date and relation of the +several forms of the story. If Cynewulf made use of the Latin Life of +Cyriacus in the _Acta Sanctorum_, he expanded his source considerably +and showed great skill and originality in his treatment of the subject, +as may be seen by comparing the translation with the Latin text in +Zupitza's third edition of the ELENE (1888), or in Professor Kent's +forthcoming American edition, after Zupitza. The Old English text was +discovered by a German scholar, Dr. F. Blume, at Vercelli, Italy, in +1822, and the manuscript has since become well known as the Vercelli +Book (cf. Wülker's _Grundriss_, p. 237 ff.). A reasonable conjecture as +to how this MS. reached Vercelli may be found in Professor Cook's +pamphlet, "Cardinal Guala and the Vercelli Book." A Bibliography of the +ELENE will be found in Wülker, Zupitza, and Kent. English translations +have been made by Kemble, in his edition of the Codex Vercellensis +(1856), and very recently by Dr. R.F. Weymouth, Acton, England, after +Zupitza's text (privately printed, 1888). A German translation will be +found in Grein's _Dichtungen der Angelsachsen_ (II. 104 ff., 1859), and +of lines 1-275 in Körner's _Einleitung in das Studium des +Angelsächsischen_ (p. 147 ff., 1880). A good summary of the poem is +given in Earle's "Anglo-Saxon Literature" (p. 234 ff., 1884), and a +briefer one in Morley's "English Writers" (II. 196 ff.). + +The ELENE is conceded to be Cynewulf's best poem, and ten Brink remarks +of the ANDREAS and the ELENE: "In these Cynewulf appears, perhaps, at +the summit of his art" (p. 58, Kennedy's translation). The last canto is +a personal epilogue, of a sad and reflective character, evidently +appended after the poem proper was concluded. This may be the last work +of the poet, and there is good reason for ten Brink's view (p. 59) that +"not until the writing of the ELENE had Cynewulf entirely fulfilled the +task he had set himself in consequence of his vision of the cross. Hence +he recalls, at the close of the poem, the greatest moment of his life, +and praises the divine grace that gave him deeper knowledge, and +revealed to him the art of song." + +II. The JUDITH is a fragment, but a very torso of Hercules. The first +nine cantos, nearly three-fourths of the poem, are irretrievably lost, +so that we have left but the last three cantos with a few lines of the +ninth. The story is from the apocryphal book of Judith, and the part +remaining corresponds to chapters XII. 10 to XVI. 1, but the poet has +failed to translate the grand thanksgiving of Judith in the sixteenth +chapter. The story of Judith and Holofernes is too well known to need +narration. The poet, doubtless, followed the Latin Vulgate, as we have +no reason to think that a knowledge of Greek was a common possession +among Old English poets; but, as Professor Cook says, "the order of +events is not that of the original narrative. Many transpositions have +been made in the interest of condensation and for the purpose of +enhancing the dramatic liveliness of the story." + +The Old English text is found in the same manuscript with the BÉOWULF +(Cotton, Vitellius, A, xv.), and, to my mind, this poem reminds the +reader more of the vigor and fire of BÉOWULF than does any other Old +English poem; but its author is unknown. It has been assigned by some +scholars to the tenth century, which is rather late for it; but +Professor Cook has given reasons for thinking that it may have been +written in the second half of the ninth century in honor of Judith, the +step-mother of King Alfred. It was first printed as prose by Thwaites at +the close of his "Heptateuch, Book of Job, and Gospel of Nicodemus" +(1698), and has been often reprinted, its shortness and excellence +making it a popular piece for inclusion in Anglo-Saxon Readers. A most +complete edition has been recently (1888) issued by Professor Albert S. +Cook, with an excellent introduction, a translation, and a glossary. A +Bibliography is given by Professor Cook (pp. 71-73), and by Wülker +(_Grundriss_, p. 140 ff.). To the translations therein enumerated may be +added the one in Morley's "English Writers" (II. 180 ff.). Professor +Cook has also given (pp. lxix-lxxii) the testimonies of scholars to the +worth of this poem. To these the attention of the reader is especially +called. The JUDITH has been treated by both ten Brink and Wülker as +belonging to the Caedmon circle, but the former well says (p. 47): "This +fragment produces an impression more like that of the national epos than +is the case with any other religious poetry of that epoch;" and Sweet +(Reader, p. 157) regards it as belonging "to the culminating point of +the Old Northumbrian literature, combining as it does the highest +dramatic and constructive power with the utmost brilliance of language +and metre." + +III. The ATHELSTAN, or Fight at Brunanburh, is found in four manuscripts +of the "Anglo-Saxon Chronicle" and in Wheloc's edition (1643), printed +from a MS. that was burnt in the unfortunate fire among the Cottonian +manuscripts (1731). It is entered under the year 937 in all but one MS., +where it occurs under 938. The poem gives a brief, but graphic, +description of the fight between King Athelstan and his brother Edmund +on the one side, and Constantine and his Scots aided by Anlaf and his +Danes, or Northmen, on the other, in which fight the Saxons were +completely victorious. The poem will be found in all editions of the +"Anglo-Saxon Chronicle" from Wheloc to Earle (1865), and has been +repeatedly reprinted, its brevity causing it to be often included as a +specimen of Old English, but it is omitted in Sweet's Reader. A +Bibliography will be found in Wülker's _Grundriss_ (p. 339 ff.). To the +English translations there mentioned,--which include a poetical one by +Lord Tennyson, after a prose translation by his son in the Contemporary +Review for November, 1876,--may be added the prose translation by +Kennedy in ten Brink (p. 91) and the rhythmical one by Professor Morley +in his "English Writers" (II. 316-17). ten Brink thinks that the poem +was not written by an eye-witness, and says (p. 92): "The poem lacks the +epic perception and direct power of the folk-song as well as invention. +The patriotic enthusiasm, however, upon which it is borne, the lyrical +strain which pervades it, yield their true effect. The rich resources +derived from the national epos are here happily utilised, and the pure +versification and brilliant style of the whole stir our admiration." It +well serves to diversify and enliven the usually dry annals of the +"Anglo-Saxon Chronicle," and cannot be spared in the great dearth of +poetry of this period. + +IV. The BYRHTNOTH, or Fight at Maldon, relates in vigorous verse the +contest between the Saxons, led by the Ealdorman Byrhtnoth, and the +Danes at the river Panta, near Maldon in Essex, in which the Danes were +victorious and Byrhtnoth was slain. The incident is mentioned in four +manuscripts of the "Anglo-Saxon Chronicle" under the year 991, but one +gives it under 993. The MS. in which the poem was contained was +unfortunately burnt in the great fire above-mentioned (1731); but Thomas +Hearne, the antiquary, had fortunately printed it, as prose, in his +edition, of the Chronicle of John of Glastonbury (1726); hence this is +now our sole authority for the text, which is defective at both the +beginning and the end. The poem has been highly esteemed by scholars, +and is a very valuable relic of late tenth century literature. It has +been often reprinted, and translated several times in whole or in part. +Grein does not translate either the ATHELSTAN or the BYRHTNOTH. Körner +translates it in full, and so does Zernial in his Program "Das Lied von +Byrhtnoth's Fall" (1882). This monograph contains the fullest study of +the poem that has been made. It is translated into English, with some +omissions, by Kennedy in ten Brink (pp. 93-96); it is barely mentioned +by Earle (p. 147), and a summary of it is given by Morley in "English +Writers" (II. 319-320). A Bibliography will be found in Wülker's +_Grundriss_ (pp. 344-5). An edition of both ATHELSTAN and BYRHTNOTH has +been long announced in the "Library of Anglo-Saxon Poetry," but it has +not yet appeared.[1] Sweet says of the BYRHTNOTH (Reader, p. 138): +"Although the poem does not show the high technical finish of the older +works, it is full of dramatic power and warm feeling"; and ten Brink, +with more enthusiasm, calls it (p. 96) "one of the pearls of Old English +poetry, full, as it is, of dramatic life, and fidelity of an +eye-witness. Its deep feeling throbs in the clear and powerful +portrayal." He recognizes, however, "the tokens of metrical decline, of +the dissolution of ancient art-forms." + + [1] Crow's "Maldon and Brunnanburh," 1897. + +V. The DREAM OF THE ROOD is found in the Vercelli manuscript. Wülker's +_Grundriss_ gives the literature of the subject to the time of its +publication (1885). Soon afterwards Morley's "English Writers," Vol. +II., appeared (1888), in which an English translation is given (pp. +237-241); also Stopford Brooke, in his "History of Early English +Literature" (1892), has given an account of the poem, with partial +translation and epitome (pp. 436-443). (See also p. 337 and pp. 384-386 +for further notice.) The poem is very briefly mentioned by Trautmann in +his monograph on Cynewulf (1898, p. 40). There are some very interesting +questions connected with the poem which cannot be discussed here. Was it +by Cynewulf? On the affirmative side we find Dietrich, Rieger, Grein, +ten Brink, D'Ham, and Sweet. On the negative, Wülker, Ebert, Trautmann, +Stephens, Morley, Brooke, and others. Pacius, who edited the text, with +a German translation, in 1873, thinks that we know nothing about the +poet. Brooke has propounded a theory, previously adumbrated by the +editors of the _Corpus Poeticum Boreale_, Vigfusson and Powell, that an +older poem, possibly of Cædmonian origin, as shown by the long +six-accent lines, has been worked over by Cynewulf, with additions, and +that it is "his last work" (p. 440). Certain lines of the poem, in the +Northumbrian dialect, are found on the Ruthwell Cross, which fact +complicates the question of origin. These are compared by Brooke (p. +337). The other upholders of the Cynewulfian authorship think that this +Dream, occurring in the early part of Cynewulf's religious life, led to +the longer and more highly finished poem, the ELENE, written near the +close of his life. The questions of the relationship of the poem to the +Ruthwell Cross and to the ELENE deserve further discussion. With these +is connected the question of date, and the poem has been placed all the +way from 700 to 800 A.D., even a little before and a little after, +possibly 675 to 825 A.D., so as yet there is no common agreement. The +similarity of thought in the personal epilogue (II. 122 ff.) to the +epilogue of the ELENE (II. 1237 ff.) is striking, and they may be +compared by the curious reader. The translation is made from the +Grein-Wülker text (Vol. II., pp. 116-125), with emendations from others, +as seen in the notes. All can agree with Kemble (_Codex Vercellensis_, +Part II., p. ix) that "it is in some respects the most striking of all +the Anglo-Saxon remains, inasmuch as a departure from the mere +conventional style of such compositions is very perceptible in it. It +contains some passages of real poetical beauty, and a good deal of +fancy." Brooke says (op. cit., p. 443): "This is the last of the +important poems of the eighth century. It is good, but not very good. +The older part, if my conjecture be right, is the best, and its +reworking by Cynewulf has so broken it up that its dignity is much +damaged. The shaping is rude, but the imagination has indeed shaped +it." ten Brink says (p. 53): "Cynewulf himself has immortalized this +vision in a poem, giving utterance to an irrepressible emotion, but +still exhibiting the delicate lines of a beautifully designed +composition." The other Germans are usually so taken up with technical +and mechanical questions that they leave no room for æsthetic +considerations. Whether Cynewulf wrote the poem or not,--and the +probabilities favor his authorship, though we may not hesitate to say +with Morley, "I don't know,"--it is certainly the work of a gifted +Christian poet, who reverences the cross as the means of the redemption +of mankind. + +This brief Introduction will, it is hoped, be sufficient to interest the +reader in the accompanying translations of some of the finest pieces of +Old English poetry that remain to us from the eighth, ninth, and tenth +centuries. The earlier period was the golden age of Old English poetry +in the Northumbrian dialect, which poetry, there is good reason to +think, was copied into the West-Saxon dialect, and it now remains to us +only in that form; for, when the Northmen harried Northumbria, destroyed +its monasteries, massacred its inhabitants, and settled in its homes, +manuscripts perished, and the light of learning in Western Europe was +extinguished. It is sufficient to recall King Alfred's oft-quoted +lament, in the Preface to his translation of Pope Gregory's "Pastoral +Care," to realize the position held by Northumbria in respect to +culture, and when learning was restored in Wessex by the efforts of the +king himself, and poetry again revived, it shone but by a reflected +light. Still we should treasure all that remains, and the Old English +language should be at least as well known as Latin is now, and should +occupy as prominent a position in education and general culture. Until +that millennial period arrives, translations of Old English poems may +not be without service. + + +ABBREVIATIONS IN NOTES. + + +B. = Bouterwek; +C. = Cook; +Gm. = Grimm; +Gn. = Grein; +K. = Kemble; +Kl. = Kluge; +Kr. = Körner; +S. = Sievers; +Sw. = Sweet; +Th. = Thorpe; +W. = Wülker; +Z. = Zupitza; +Zl. = Zernial. + + + + +CYNEWULF'S ELENE. + + +I. + +Whén had elapsed in course of years +Two hundred and three, reckoned by number, +And thirty alsó, in measure of time, +Of winters for th' world, since mighty God +Became incarnate, of kings the Glory, 5 +Upón mid-earth in human form, +Light of the righteous; then sixth was the year +Of Constantine's imperial sway, +Since hé o'er the realm of the Roman people, +The battle-prince, as ruler was raised. 10 +The ward of his folk, skilful with shield, +Was gracious to earls. Strong grew the ætheling's[1] +Might 'neath the heavens. Hé was true king, +War-keeper of men. God him strengthened +With honor and might, that to many became he 15 +Throughoút this earth to men a joy, +To nations a vengeance, when weapon he raised +Against his foes. Him battle was offered, +Tumult of war. A host was assembled, +Folk of the Huns and fame-loving Goths; 20 +War-brave they went, the Franks and the Hugs.[2] +Bold were the men [in battle-byrnies, Gn.], +Ready for war. Bright shone the spears, +The ringéd corselets. With shouts and shields +They hoisted the standards. The heroes were there 25 +Plainly assembled, and [host, Gn.] all together. +The multitude marched. A war-song howled +The wolf in the wood, war-secret concealed not; +The dew-feathered eagle uplifted his song +On the trail of his foes. Hastened quickly 30 +O'er cities of giants[3] the greatest of war-hosts +In bands to battle, such as king of the Huns +Of dwellers-around anywhere might, +Of city-warriors, assemble to war. +Went greatest of armies,--the footmen were strengthened 35 +With chosen bands,--till in foreign land +The fighters-with-darts upón the Danube's +Bank were encamping, the brave in heart, +'Round the welling of waters, with tumult of host. +The realm of the Romans they wished to oppress, 40 +With armies destroy. Thére was Huns' coming +Known to the people. Then bade the Cæsar +Against the foes his comrades in war +'Neath arrow-flight in greatest haste +Gather for fight, form battle-array 45 +The heroes 'neath heavens. The Romans were, +Men famed for victory, quickly prepared +With weapons for war, though lesser army +Had théy for the battle than king of the Huns.[4] +They rode 'round the valiant: then rattled the shield, 50 +The war-wood clanged: the king with host marched, +With army to battle. Aloft sang the raven, +Dark and corpse-gréedy. The band was in motion. +The horn-bearers blew,[5] the heralds called, +Steed stamped the earth. The host assembled 55 +Quickly for contest. The king was affrighted, +With terror disturbed, after the strangers, +The Huns' and Hreths' hóst they[6] observed, +That it[7] on the Romans' kingdom's border +'Round the bank of the river a band assembled, 60 +A countless crowd. Heart-sorrow bore +The Romans' ruler, of realm he hoped not +For want of force; had warriors too few, +Trusty comrades, 'gainst th' overmight +Of the brave for battle. The army encamped, 65 +The earls 'round the ætheling nigh to the river +In neighboring plain a night-long time, +After force of their foes they first beheld. +Thén in his sleep was shown to him, +To the Cæsar himself where he slept 'mid his men, 70 +By the victory-famed seen, a vision of dream. +Effulgent it seemed him, in form of a man, +White and hue-bright, some one of heroes +More splendid appeared than ere or since +He saw 'neath the heavens. From sleep he awaked 75 +With boar-sign bedecked. The messenger quickly, +Bright herald of glory, to him made address +And called him by name (the night-veil vanished): +"To thee, Constantine, bade King of the angels, +Wielder of fates, his favor grant, 80 +The Lord of Hosts. Fear not for thyself, +Though thee the strangers threaten with terror, +With battle severe. Look thou to heaven, +To the Lord of glory: there help wilt thou find, +A token of victory." Soon was he ready 85 +At hest of the holy, his heart-lock unloosed, +Upwards he looked as the messenger bade him, +Trusty peace-wéaver. He saw bright with gems +Fair rood of glory o'er roof of the clouds +Adorned with gold: the jewels shone, 90 +The glittering tree with letters was written +Of brightness and light: "With this beacon thou +On the dangerous journey[8] wilt the foe overcome, +The loathly host let." The light then departed, +Ascended on high, and the messenger too, 95 +To the realm of the pure. The king was the blither +And freer from sorrow, chieftain of men, +In thoughts of his soul, for thát fair sight. + + [1] Prince's. + + [2] MS. '_Huns_,' but Z. reads '_Hugs_.' Cf. W. + + [3] 'O'er land of Burgundians,' Gn. + + [4] Z. has no point, W. puts (;), Gn. (.) + + [5] 'Hurried,' Z.^3 + + [6] 'He,' W. + + [7] 'Which,' Z. + + [8] 'In the terrible danger,' Gn. + + +II. + +Bade then a likeness[1] defender of æthelings, +Ring-giver of heroes, to that beacon he saw, 100 +Leader of armies, that in heaven before +To him had appeared, with greatest haste +[Bade] Constantine [like] the rood of Christ, +The glorious king, a token make. +He bade then at dawn with break of day 105 +His warriors rouse and onset of battle, +The standard raise, and that holy tree +Before him carry, 'mid host of foes +God's beacon bear. The trumpets sang +Aloud 'fore the hosts. The raven rejoiced,[2] 110 +The dew-feathered eagle beheld the march, +Fight of the fierce cries, the wolf raised his howl, +The wood's frequenter. War-terror arose. +There was shattering of shields and mingling of men, +Heavy handstroke and felling of foes, 115 +After in arrow-flight first they had met. +On the fated folk showers of darts, +Spears over shields into hosts of foes, +Sword-fierce foemen battle-adders +With force of fingers forwards impelled. 120 +The strong-hearted stepped, pressed onwards at once, +Broke the shield-covers, thrust in their swords, +Battle-brave hastened. Then standard was raised, +Sign 'fore the host, song of victory sung. +The golden helmet, the spear-points glistened 125 +On field of battle. The heathen perished, +Peaceless they fell. Forthwith they fled, +The folk of the Huns, when that holy tree +The king of the Romans bade raise on high, +Fierce in the fight. The warriors became 130 +Widely dispersed. Some war took away; +Some with labor their lives preserved +Upon that march; some half-alive +Fled to the fastness and life protected +Behind the stone-cliffs, held their abode 135 +Around the Danube; some drowning took off +In the stream of the river at the end of their life. +Then wás of the proud ones the force in joy; +They followed the foreigners forth until even +From break of day. The ash-darts flew, 140 +Battle-adders. The heap was destroyed,[3] +Shield-band of foes. Very few came +Of the host of the Huns home again thence. +Thén it was plain that victory gave +To Constantine the King Almighty 145 +In the work of that day, glorious honor, +Might 'neath the heavens, through the tree of his rood. +Went helmet of hosts home again thence, +In booty rejoicing (the battle was ended), +Honored in war. Came warriors' defence 150 +With band of his thanes to deck the strong shield,[4] +War-renowned king, to visit his cities. +Bade warriors' ward the wisest men +Swiftly to synod, who wisdom's craft +Through writings of old had learnt to know, 155 +Held in their hearts counsels of heroes. +Then thát gan inquire chief of the folk, +Victory-famed king, throughout the wide crowd, +If any there were, elder or younger, +Who him in truth was able to tell, 160 +Make known by speech, what the god were, +The giver of glory,[5] "whose beacon this was, +That seemed me so sheen, and saved my people, +Brightest of beacons, and gave to me glory, +War-speed against foes, through that beautiful tree." 165 +They him any answer at all were unable +To give in reply, nor could they full well +Clearly declare of that victory-sign. +Thén did the wisest speak out in words +Before the armed host, that Heaven-king's 170 +Token it was, and of that was no doubt. +When they that heard who in baptism's lore +Instructed had been, light was their mind, +Rejoicing their soul, though of them there were few, +That they 'fore the Cæsar might dare to proclaim 175 +The gift of the gospel, how the spirits' Defence, +In form of the Trinity worshipped in glory, +Incarnate became, Brightness of kings,-- +And how on the cross was God's own Son +Hanged 'fore the hosts with hardest pains; 180 +The Son men saved from the bonds of devils, +Sorrowful spirits, and a gift to them gave +Through thát same sign that appeared to him +Before his own eyes the token of victory +'Gainst onset of nations; and how the third day 185 +From out of the tomb the Glory of heroes, +From death, arose, the Lord of all +The race of mankind, and to Heaven ascended. +So with cunning of mind in secrets of soul +They said to the victor as they by Sylvester[6] 190 +Instructed had been. From him the folk-chíef +Baptism received, and continued to hold it +For the time of his days at the will of the Lord. + + [1] Lit. 'in like manner,' adv. + + [2] Add 'at the work.' + + [3] 'Diminished,' Gn. + + [4] i.e., with precious stones. Kr. reads '(rattled strong + shields).' + + [5] 'Gold,' Kr. 'Lord of the house,' Gn. Cf. W. + + [6] The Bishop of Rome. + + +III. + +Thén was in bliss the giver of treasure, +The battle-brave king. To him was new joy 195 +Inspired in his soul; greatest of comforts +And highest of hopes was heaven's Defence. +Then gan he God's law by day and by night +Through gift of the Spirit with zeal proclaim, +And truly himself devoted he eagerly, 200 +Gold-friend of men, to the service of God, +Spear-famed, unfaltering. Then found the ætheling, +Defence of his folk, through learned men,[1] +War-brave, spear-bold, in books of God, +Whére had been hanged with shouts of the host 205 +On tree of the rood the Ruler of heaven +Through envy and hate, just ás the old fiend +Misled with his lies, the people deceived, +The race of the Jews, so that God himself +They hanged, Lord of hosts: hence in misery shall they 210 +For ever and ever punishment suffer. +Then praise of Christ by the Cæsar was +In the thoughts of his mind[2] always remembered +For that great tree, and his mother he bade +Gó on a journey with a band of men 215 +To [land of] the Jews, earnestly seek +With host of warriors where that tree of glory +Holy 'neath earth hidden might be, +The noble King's rood. Helena would not +On that expedition be slow to start, 220 +Nor that joy-giver's command neglect, +Her own [dear] son's, but soon she[3] was ready +For the wished-for journey, as the helmet of men, +Of mail-clad warriors, her had commanded. +Gan then with speed the crowd of earls 225 +Hasten to ship.[4] The steeds of the sea +'Round the shore of the ocean ready were standing, +Cabled sea-horses, at rest on the water. +Then plainly was known the voyage of the lady, +When the welling of waves she sought with her folk. 230 +There many a proud one at Wendel-sea +Stood on the shore. They severally hastened +Over the mark-paths, band after band, +And then they loaded with battle-sarks, +With shields and spears, with mail-clad warriors, 235 +With men and women, the steeds of the sea. +Then they let o'er the billows the foamy ones go, +The high wave-rushers. The hull oft received +O'er the mingling of waters the blows of the waves. +The sea resounded. Not since nor ere heard I 240 +On water-stream a lady lead, +On ocean-street, a fairer force. +There might he see, who that voyage beheld, +Burst o'er the bath-way the sea-wood, hasten +'Neath swelling sails, the sea-horse play, 245 +The wave-floater sail. The warriors were blithe, +Courageous in mind; queen joyed in her journey. +After to haven the ringèd-prowed +O'er the sea-fastness had finished their course +To the land of the Greeks, they let the keels 250 +At the shore of the sea beat by the breakers, +The old sea-dwellings at anchor fast, +On the water await the fate of the heroes, +When the warlike queen with her band of men +Over the east-ways should seek them again. 255 +There wás on [each] earl easily seen +The braided byrnie and tested sword, +Glittering war-weeds, many a helmet, +Beautiful boar-sign. The spear-warriors were, +Men 'round victor-queen, prepared for the march, 260 +Brave war-heroes. They marched with joy +Into land of the Greeks, the Cæsar's heralds, +Battle-warriors with armor protected. +There wás to be seen treasure-gem set +'Mid that army-host, gift of their lord. 265 +[Then] wás the blessed Helena mindful, +Bold in her thought, of the prince's will, +Eager in mind, in that shé of the Jews, +O'er the army-fields with tested band +Of warriors-with-shields, the land was seeking, 270 +With host of men; so it after befell +In little while that thát force of men, +War-famed heroes, to Híerusalem[5] +Came to the city the greatest of crowds, +Spear-famed earls, with the noble queen. 275 + + [1] Lit., 'smiths of lore.' + + [2] Z. supposes _lacuna_ of one verse; W. thinks it + unnecessary. + + [3] Lit., 'the woman.' + + [4] Lit., 'to the sea,' or 'sea-journey.' + + [5] A.-S. form retained for the sake of the accent and + alliteration. + + +IV. + +Bade she then order the dwellers-in-city +Most skilled in lore, those far and wide +Among the Jews, each one of men, +For council-talk in meeting to come, +Whó most deeply the secrets of God 280 +By righteous law were able to tell. +Then was assembled from distant ways +No little crowd who Moses' law +Were able to tell. In number there were +Of thousands three of thóse [learned] men 285 +Chosen for lore. The lovely woman +The men of the Hebrews with words gan address: +"I thát most surely have learnt to know +Through secret words of prophets [of old] +In the books of God, that in days of yore 290 +Ye worthy were of the glorious King, +Dear to the Lord and daring in deed. +Lo! yé that wisdom [very, Gn.] unwisely, +Wrongly, rejected, when him ye condemned +Who you from the curse through might of his glory, 295 +From torment of fire, thought to redeem, +From fetters' force. Ye filthily spat +On hís fair face who light of the eyes +From blindness [restored], a remedy brought +To you anew by that noble spittle, 300 +And often preserved you fróm the unclean +Spirits of devils. This one to death +Ye gan adjudge, who self from death +Many awakened 'mong host of men +Of your own race to the former life. 305 +So blinded in mind ye gan conjoin +Lying with truth, light with darkness, +Hatred with mercy, with evil thoughts +Ye wickedness wove; therefore the curse +You guilty oppresses. The purest Might 310 +Ye gan condemn, and have lived in error, +In thoughts benighted, until this day. +Go ye now quickly, with prudence select +Men firm in wisdom, crafty in word, +Who yóur own law, with excellence skilled, 315 +In thoughts of their minds most thoroughly have, +Who to me truly are able to say, +Answer to tell for you hencefórth +Of each one of tokens that I from thee seek." +They went then away sorry-in-mind, 320 +The law-clever earls, oppressed with fear, +Sad in their grief, earnestly sought +The wisest men in secrets of words, +That they to the queen might answer well +Both of good and of ill, as shé from them sought. 325 +Then théy 'mong the host a thousand of men +Found clever in mind whó the old story +Among the Jews most readily knew. +Then they pressed in a crowd where in pomp awaited +On kingly throne the Cæsar's mother,[1] 330 +Stately war-queen with gold adorned. +Helena spake and said 'fore the earls: +"Hear, clever in mind, the holy secret, +Word and wisdom. Lo! yé the prophets' +Teaching received, hów the Life-giver 335 +In form of a child incarnate became, +Ruler of might. Of him Moses sang +And spake this [word],[2] warden of Israel: +'To yóu shall be born a child in secret +Renowned in might, though his mother shall nót 340 +Be filled with fruit through love of a man.' +Of him David the king a kingly psalm sang, +The wise old sage, father of Solomon, +And spake this word, prince of warriors: +'The God of creation before me I saw, 345 +Lord of victories. He wás in my sight, +Ruler of hosts, upon my right hand, +Guardian of glory. Thence turn I nót +Ever in life my countenance from him.'[3] +So it again of you Isaiah 350 +'Fore the people, the prophet, foretold in words, +Thinking profoundly by spirit of the Lord: +'I raised upon high sons young in years, +And children begat, to whom glory I gave, +Heart-comfort holy: but théy me rejected, 355 +With enmity hated, forethought possessed not, +Wisdom of mind, and the wretched cattle, +That on each day one drives and strikes, +Their well-doer know, not at áll with revenge +Bear hate to their friends who give them fodder. 360 +And the folk of Israel never were willing +Me to acknowledge, though many for them, +In worldly course, of wonders I wrought.'[4] + + [1] Lit., 'kinswoman.' The Elizabethan 'Kesar' would preserve + the alliteration in this line. + + [2] Gn. and Z. W. omits. + + [3] Psalms xvi. 8, 9. + + [4] Isaiah i. 2, 3. + + +V. + +"Lo! thát we heard through holy books, +That the Lord to you gave blameless glory, 365 +The Maker, mights' Speed, to Moses said +How the King of heaven ye should obey, +His teaching perform. Of that ye soon wearied, +And counter to right ye had contended; +Ye shunned the bright Creator of all, 370 +The Lord [of Lords],[1] and followed error +'Gainst right of God. Now quickly go +And find ye still who writings of old +Through craft of wit the best may know, +Your books of law, that answer to me 375 +Through prudent mind they may return." +Went then with a crowd depressed in mind +The proud in heart, as thém the queen bade. +Found they five hundred of cunning men, +Chosen comrades, who craft of lore 380 +Through memory of mind the most possessed, +Wisdom in spirit. They back to the hall +In little while again were summoned, +Wards of the city. The queen them gan +With words address (she glanced over all): 385 +"Often ye silly actions performed, +Accursèd wretches, and writings despised, +Lore of your fathers, ne'er more than now, +When ye of your blindness the Healer rejected, +Ánd ye contended 'gainst truth and right, 390 +That in Bethlehem the child of the Ruler, +The only-born King, incarnate was, +The Prince of princes. Though the law ye knew, +Words of the prophets, ye wére not then willing, +Workers of sin, the truth to confess." 395 +With one mind then they answered her: +"Lo! wé the Hebrew law have learned, +That in days of old our fathers knew, +At the ark of God, nor know we well +Why thou so fiercely, lady, with us 400 +Hast angry become. We know not the wrong +That wé have done amid this nation, +Chiefest of crimes[2] against thee ever." +Helena said and 'fore the earls spake +Without concealment; the lady proclaimed 405 +Aloud 'fore the hosts: "Now go ye quickly, +Seek out apart who wisdom with you +Might and mindcraft the most may have, +That each of the things they boldly may tell me, +Without delay, that I from them seek." 410 +Went they then from the council as the mighty queen, +Bold in the palace, them had commanded, +Sorry-in-mind eagerly searched they, +With cunning sought, what were the sin +That they in the folk might have committed 415 +Against the Cæsar, for which the queen blames them. +Then there 'fore the earls óne them addressed, +Cunning in songs (his name was Judas), +Crafty in word: "I surely know, +That she will seek of the victor-tree 420 +On which once suffered the Ruler of nations +Free from all faults, own Son of God, +Whom though guiltless[3] of every sin +Through hatred hanged upon the high tree +In days of old oúr own fathers. 425 +That was terrible thought. There is now great need +That we with firmness strengthen our minds, +That we of this murder become not informers, +Where the holy tree was hidden away +After the war-storm, lest máy be rejected 430 +The wise old writings and óf our fathers +The lore be lost. Not long will it be[4] +That of Israelites the noble race +Over the mid-earth may reign any more, +The law-craft of earls, if this be revealed: 435 +That same long ago mine elder father +Victory-famed said (his name was Zacchaéus), +The wise old man, to mine own father, +[Who afterwards made it known to his, Gn.][5] son, +(He went from this world), and spake this word: 440 +'If to thée that happen in the days of thy life, +That thou may'st hear of that holy tree +Wise men inquire and questionings raise +Of that victor-wood on which the true King +Was hanged on high, Guardian of heaven, 445 +Child of all peace, then quickly declare it, +Mine own dear son, ere death thee remove. +Ne'er may after that the folk of the Hebrews, +The wise in counsel, their kingdom hold, +Rule over men, but _their_ fame shall live 450 +And their dominion [be glorified ever, Gn.],[5] +To world of worlds with joy be filled, +Who the King that was hanged honor and praise.' + + [1] Gn., Z., W. + + [2] So W. 'Wrongs have committed,' Gm., Gn. and Z. [?] + + [3] W. + + [4] Add 'after that.' + + [5] _Lacuna_ in MS., emended by Gn. + + +VI. + +"Then quickly I to mine own father, +The old law-sage, answer returned: 455 +'How might that happen on kingdom of earth +That they on the holy their hands should lay +For reaving of life, oúr own fathers, +Through hostile mind, if they ere knew +That he were Christ, the King in heaven, 460 +True son of Creator, Saviour of souls.' +Then to mé mine elder answer returned, +Wise in his mind my father replied: +'Perceive, young man, the might of God, +The name of the Saviour. That is to each man 465 +Unutterable. Him may no one +Upon this earth [ever] find out. +Never that plan that this people framed +Was I willing to follow, but I always myself +Held aloof from their crimes, by no means wrought shame 470 +To mine own spirit. To them earnestly often +On account of their wrong I made opposition, +When the learned-in-lore counsel were taking, +Were seeking in soul how the Son of their Maker, +Men's Helm,[1] they might hang, the Lord of all, 475 +Both angels and men, noblest of children. +They might not so foolish death fasten on him, +Miserable men, as they ere weened, +Afflict with pains, though he for a time +Upon the cross his spirit gave up, 480 +Victor-child of God. Then afterwards was +Raised from the rood the Ruler of heavens, +Glory of all glories, three nights after +Within the tomb was he abiding +Under the darkness, and then on third day, 485 +Light of all light, he living arose, +Prince of angels, and he to his thanes, +True Lord of victories, himself revealed, +Bright in his fame. Then did thy brother +In time receive the bath of baptism, 490 +Enlightening belief. For love of the Lord +Was Stephen then with stones assailed, +Nor ill gave for ill, but for foes of old +Patient implored, prayed King of glory +That he the woe-deed would not lay to their charge, 495 +In thát through hate the innocent One, +Guiltless of sins, by the teachings of Saul +They robbed of life, as he through enmity +To misery many of the folk of Christ +Condemned, to death. Yet later the Lord 500 +Mercy him showed, that to many became he +Of people for comfort, when the God of creation, +Saviour of men, had changed his name, +And afterwards he the holy Paul +Was called by name, and no one than he 505 +Of teachers of faith, [no] other, was better +'Neath roof of heaven afterwards ever +Of those man or woman brought into the world, +Although he Stephen with stones them bade +Slay on the mountain, thine own brother. 510 +Now may'st thou hear, mine own dear son, +How gracious ís the Ruler of all, +Though we transgression 'gainst him oft commit, +The wound of sins, if we soon after +For those misdeeds repentance work 515 +Ánd from unrighteousness afterwards cease. +Therefore I truly, and my dear father, +After believed [in the Giver of life, Gn.], +That he had suffered, God of all glories, +Leader of life, painful penalty 520 +For mighty need of the race of men. +Therefore I teach thee through secret of song, +My dearest child, that scornful words, +Hatred or blasphemy, never thou work, +Fierce contradiction 'gainst the Son of God. 525 +Then wilt thou merit that thee life eternal, +Best of rewards, shall be given in heaven.' +Thus mine own father in days of old +Me unwaxen with words did teach, +Instruct with true speech (his name was Simon), 530 +Man wise in words. Now well do ye know +What of that in your thought may seem to you best +Plainly to tell, if us this queen +Shall ask of that tree, now mine own mind +And thought of heart ye [well] do know." 535 +Him then in reply the cleverest of all +In the crowd of men with words addressed: +"Ne'er did we hear any of men +Among this folk save thee just now, +Another thane, declare in this manner 540 +Of so secret event. Do as [best] seems thee, +Thou wise in old lore, if thou be questioned +'Mong the host of men. Of wisdom has need, +Of wary words and sage's cunning, +Who shall to the noble one answer return 545 +Before such a host among the assembly." + + [1] i.e., 'defence, protector.' + + +VII. + +Words waxed in speech; men counsel took +On every side; some hither, some thither, +Considered and thought. Then came many thanes +To the people's assembly. The heralds called, 550 +The Cæsar's criers: "This queen you invites, +Men, to the hall, that the council-decisions +Ye rightly may tell. Of rede have ye need +In the place of assembly, of wisdom of mind." +Ready they were, the sad-in-mind 555 +People's protectors, when they were summoned +Through stern command; to court they went +Craft's might to tell. Then gan the queen +The Hebrew men in words address, +Ask the life-weary of writings of old, 560 +How ere in the world the prophets sang, +Men holy in spirit, of the Son of God, +Where the Prince [of the people] his sufferings bore, +True son of Creator, for love of souls. +Stubborn they were, harder than stone, 565 +Would not that secret rightly make known +Nor answer to her any would tell, +Anger-provokers, of what she sought, +But they of each word made a denial, +Firm in their minds, of what she gan ask, 570 +Said that in life they any such thing +Nor ere nor since ever had heard of. +Helena spake and angrily said: +"I [now] in truth to you will say,-- +And of this in your life there shall be no deception,-- 575 +If ye in this falseness longer continue +With treacherous lying, who stand here before me, +That you on the mountain bale-fire shall take, +Hottest of war-waves, and your corpses consume, +The lambent flame, so for yoú shall that lie 580 +To leaving of life [surely] be turned. +Ye may not prove that word, which ye just now in wrong +Concealed 'neath heaps[1] of sins. Nor may ye hide that fate, +Obscure its deepest might." In thought of death they were +Of pyre and life's end, and delivered then one 585 +Well-skilled in songs (to him the name Judas +Was given 'fore kinsmen);--him they gave to the queen, +Said of him very wise: "He may truth to thee tell, +Fate's secrets reveal, as thou askest in words, +The law from beginning forth to the end. 590 +He is before earth of noble race, +Wise in word-craft and son of a prophet, +Bold in council. To him 'tis inborn +That he the answers clever may have, +Knowledge in heart. He to thée shall declare 595 +'Fore the crowd of men the gift of wisdom +Through mickle might, as thy mind desires." +In peace she permitted each one to seek +His own [dear] home, and him alone took, +Judas, as hostage, and earnestly prayed 600 +That he of the rood would rightly teach, +Which of old in its bed was long concealed, +And she himself apart to her called. +Helena spake to him alone, +Glory-rich queen: "For thee two are ready, 605 +Or life or death, as liefer shall be, +To thee to choose. Now quickly declare +To which of the two thou wilt agree." +Judas to her spake again (he might not the sorrow avoid, +Avert the ire of the empress.[2] In the power of the queen was he): 610 +"How maý him befall who oút on the waste, +Tired and foodless, treads the moorland, +Oppressed with hunger, and bread and stone +Both in his sight together[3] shall be, +The hard and the soft, that he take the stone 615 +For hunger's defence, care nót for the bread, +Return to want and reject the food, +Renounce the better, if both he enjoys?" + + [1] Lit., 'under the lap (or bosom) of sins.' + + [2] MS. _rex_ (Latin?), Z.; 'oppression of care' (_cearces_), + Gn.; 'of hunger' (_ceaces_), Gm.; 'of smoke' (_rêces_), + Schubert; _rex_ = _cyninges_, Sievers and W. + + [3] Z. + + +VIII. + +To him then the blessed answer returned, +Helena 'fore earls without concealment: 620 +"If thou in heaven willest to have +Dwelling with angels and life on earth, +Reward in the skies, tell me quickly +Where rests the rood of the King of heaven +Holy 'neath earth, which yé now long 625 +Through sin of murder from men have concealed." +Judas replied (his mind was sad, +Heat in his heart and woe for both, +Whether hope of heaven with [all] his soul +He should renounce, along with his present 630 +Kingdom 'neath skies, or show the rood): +"How may I that find that long ago happened +In course of winters? Now many are gone, +Two hundred or more, reckoned by number; +I may not recount, now the number I know not. 635 +Now many have since departed this life, +Of wise and good who were before us, +Of clever men. In youth was I +In later days afterwards born, +A child in years. I cannot what I know not 640 +Find in my heart that so long ago happened." +Helena spake to him in answer: +"How has it happened among this people, +That ye so much in mind retain, +Each one of all signs, just as the Trojans 645 +In fight effected? 'Twas greater terror,[1] +Well-known old war, than this noble event, +In course of years. Ye that can well +Quickly recount, how many there were +In number of men in that murderous fight 650 +Of throwers-with-darts fallen in death +Under the shield-hedge. Ye have the graves +Under the stone-slopes, and likewise the places +And the number of winters in writings set down." +Judas replied (great sorrow he bore): 655 +"That work of war, we, lady mine, +Through direful need remember well, +And that tumult of war in writing set down, +The bearing of nations, but this one never +By any man's mouth have we heard 660 +Made known to men except here now." +The noble queen gave answer to him: +"Thou resistest too much both truth and right +Of the tree of life, and now little before +Thou truly said'st of that victor-tree 665 +To thine own people, and now turn'st to a lie." +To her Judas said that he spake that in sorrow +And doubt extreme, worse evil expected. +Him quickly answered the Cæsar's mother: +"Lo! that have we heard through holy books 670 +Made known to men that there was hanged +On Calvarý the King's free child, +God's Spirit-son. Thou fully shalt +Wisdom reveal, as writings tell, +About the plain, where the place may be, 675 +That Calvarý, ere misery take thee, +Death for thy sins, that I afterwards may +Purify ít at the will of Christ, +For help to men, that holy God, +Almighty Lord, the thought of my heart 680 +My wish may fulfil, men's Giver of glory, +Helper of souls." Her Judas answered, +Stubborn in mind: "I know not the place +Nor aught of the plain, nor the thing do I know." +Helena spake with angry mind: 685 +"This do I swear through the Son of the Maker +The hangèd God, that with hunger thou shalt +Before thy kinsmen be put to death, +Unless thou forsake these lying tales +And plainly to me the truth make known." 690 +Then bade she with band him lead alive, +The guilty one cast (the servants delayed not) +Intó a dry pit, where robbed of joy, +He lingered in sorrows seven nights' time +Within the prison oppressed with hunger, 695 +Fastened with fetters, and then gan he call, +Weakened by pains, on the seventh day, +Tired and foodless (his strength was exhausted): +"I you beseech through heaven's God, +That me from these sufferings ye maý release, 700 +Humbled by hunger. Of that holy tree +Shall I willingly tell, now longer I may not +For hunger conceal it. This bond is too strong, +Distress too severe, and this misery too hard +In number of days. I may not endure it, 705 +Nor longer conceal of the tree of life, +Though with folly before I was thoroughly filled, +And the truth too late I myself have perceived." + + [1] Or, 'war,' Gn.; 'further oft,' Gm. + + +IX. + +When she that heard, who men there ordered, +The man's behavior, she quickly commanded 710 +That him from confinement and out of his dungeon, +From the narrow abode, they shóuld release. +They hastily thát did soon perform +And him with honor then led they up +From out of the prison as them the queen bade. 715 +Stepped they then to the place, the firm-in-mind, +Upon the hill on which the Lord +Before was hanged, heaven-kingdom's Ward, +God's child, on the cross, and yet knew he not well, +Weakened by hunger, where the holy rood 720 +Through cunning of foe[1] enclosed in earth, 721-2 +Long firm in its bed concealed from men, +Remained in its grave. Now raised he his voice, +Unmindful[2] of might, and in Hebrew he spake: 725 +"Saviour Lord, thou hast power of rule, +And thou didst create through the might of thy glory +Heaven and earth and the boisterous sea, +The ocean's wide bosom, all creatures alike, +And thou didst measure with thine own hands 730 +All the globe of the earth and the heaven above, +And thou thyself sittest, Wielder of victories, +Above the noblest order of angels, +That fly through the air encircled with light, +Great might of glory. There mankind may not 735 +From the paths of earth ascend on high +In bodily form with thát bright host, +Heralds of glory. These wroughtest thou, +And for thíne own service thém didst thou set, +Holy and heavenly. Of these in the choir 740 +In joy eternal six are named, +Who are surrounded with six wings apiece, +[With them are] adorned, [and] fair they shine. +Of these are four who ever in flight +The service of glory attend upon 745 +Before the face of the Judge eternal, +Continually sing in glory the praise, +With clearest voices, of the King of heaven, +Most beauteous of songs, and say these words +With voices pure (their name Cherubím): 750 +'Holy is the holy God of archangels, +Ruler of hosts. Full of his glory +Are heaven and earth and all the high powers +With glory distinguished,' There are two among these, +Victor-race in heaven, who Seraphím 755 +By name are called. They sháll Paradise +And the tree of life with flaming sword +Holy maintain. The hard-edged trembles, +The etched brand wavers, and changes its form, +Firm in their grips. Thát,[3] O Lord God, 760 +Ever thou wieldest, and thou the sinful, +Guilt-working foes out of the heavens, +The foolish, didst cast. The accursèd host then +Under dwellings of darkness was forced to fall +To perdition of hell. There now in the welling 765 +Endure they death-pain in the dragon's embrace, +Enclosed in darkness. [Thee] he resisted, +Thy princely rule; therefore in misery, +Full[4] of all foulness, he guilty shall suffer, +Slavery endure. There may he not 770 +Thy word reject: he is fast in torments, +The author of sin, in misery bound. +If thy will it be, Ruler of angels, +That he may reign who was on the rood, +And who through Mary upon the mid-earth 775 +Incarnate became in form of a child, +Prince of the angels (if hé had not been +Thy Son free from sin, never so many +True wonders in world would hé have wrought +In number of days. Thou wouldst not from death 780 +So gloriously him, Ruler of nations, +Have awaked 'fore the hosts, if hé in glory +Through the bright [maid] were not thy Son),-- +Now, Father of angels, send forth thy sign. +As thou didst hear the holy man, 785 +Moses, in prayer, when thou, God of might, +Didst show to the earl at the noble time +Under the hill-slope the bones of Joseph, +So, Ruler of hosts, if it be thy will, +Through that bright form I'll pray to thee 790 +That to me the gold-hoard, Maker of spirits, +Thou wilt reveal, that has been from men +[So] long concealed. Let, Author of life, +Now from this plain a winsome smoke +'Neath heaven's expanse mount up on high 795 +Playing in the air. I'll the better believe, +And I'll the more firmly stablish my mind, +Undoubting trust, upon the hanged Christ, +That hé be in truth the Saviour of souls, +Eternal, Almighty, Israel's King, 800 +Forever may have glory in heaven, +Rule without end the dwellings eternal." + + [1] No _lacuna_ in MS. Gn.^1 inserted one line, but Gn.^2 one + word (_fêonda_), which W. prefers. Text as Z. (_fêondes_), + which Sievers approves. + + [2] 'Mindful,' Gm. and Gn.; 'suffering,' Z. [?]. + + [3] Referring to the sword. + + [4] Gn., or 'foul,' Z. + + +X. + +Then out of that place a vapor arose +Like smoke 'neath the heavens. Thére was rejoiced +The mind of the man. With both his hands, 805 +Happy and láw-clever, upward he clapped. +Judas exclaimed, clever in thought: +"Now I in truth myself have known +In my hardened heart that thou art the Saviour +Of [this] mid-earth. To thee, God of might, 810 +Sitting in glory, be thanks without end, +That to me so sad and so full of sin +Thou revealed'st in glory the secrets of fate. +Now, Son of God, to thee will I pray, +Will-giver of peoples, now I know that thou art 815 +Declared and born of all kings the Glory, +That thou no longer be of my sins, +Those which I committed by no means seldom, +O Maker, mindful. Let mé, God of might, +Amid the number of thine own kingdom 820 +With the army of saints my dwelling have +In that bright city, where is my brother +Honored in glory, for that faith with thee +He, Stephen, kept, though with handfuls of stones +He was pelted to death. War's meed he has, 825 +Fame without end. There are in books +The wonders he wrought, in writings, made known." +Then gan he glad for the tree of glory, +Constant in zeal, delve in the earth +Beneath the turf, so thát at twenty 830 +Feet by measure he found far concealed, +Down in the depths hidden in the earth +'Neath cover of darkness,--there found he three +Of roods together within the sad house +Buried in sand, as in days of old 835 +The host of the wicked covered with earth, +The folk of the Jews. 'Gainst the child of God +Hatred they raised, although they should not, +If the lore they'd not heard of the father of lies. +Then wás his mind greatly rejoiced, 840 +His heart was strengthened by that holy tree, +His spirit inspired, when the beacon he saw +Holy 'neath earth. With his hands he clasped +The cross[1] of glory, and it raised 'mid the crowd +From its grave in the earth. The guests on foot, 845 +The æthelings, went on into the city. +They set there in sight three victor-trees +The firm-minded earls 'fore Helena's feet,[2] +Courageous in heart. The queen rejoiced +In the depth of her soul, and then gan ask 850 +On which of those trees the Son of the Ruler, +Joy-giver of heroes, hangèd had been. +"Lo! thát we have heard through holy books +By tokens declared, that two with-him +[Also] suffered, and himself was the third 855 +On the tree of the rood. All heaven was dark +On that terrible day. Say, if thou canst, +On which of these three the Prince of the angels +Suffered [his doom], the Shepherd of glory." +Her Judas might not (he knew not full well) 860 +Plainly inform of the victor-wood, +On which one the Saviour uplifted had been, +Victor-son of God, ere he bade them set +Within the middle of that great city +The trees with clamor, and there await 865 +Till to him declared the Almighty King +The wonder 'fore the folk of that tree of glory. +The victor-famed sat, their song they raised, +The wise in rede, 'round the three roods +Until the ninth hour; new joy they had 870 +With wonder found. Then came there a crowd, +No little folk, and a man deceased +They brought on a bier with heap of men +In neighborhood [nigh] (ninth hour it was), +A lifeless youth. Then Judas was there 875 +In thought of his heart greatly rejoiced. +He bade then set the soul-less [youth], +Deprived of life the corpse on the earth, +The lifeless one, and up he raised, +Declarer of truth, two of the crosses, 880 +The wise, in his arms o'er that fated house, +Plunged deep in thought. It was dead as before, +Corpse fast on its bier: the limbs were cold, +Clad in distress. Then wás the third +Holy upraised. The body awaited 885 +Until over it the Ætheling's [cross], +His rood, was upraised, Heaven-king's tree, +True token of victory. Soon he arose +Ready in spirit, both together +Body and soul. There praise was uplifted 890 +Fair 'mid the folk. The Father they honored, +And also the true Son of the Ruler +They praised in words. Be glory and thanks +To Him without end from all His creatures. + + [1] Lit., 'joy-wood.' + + [2] Lit., 'knee.' + + +XI. + +Then wás to the people in the depth of their souls 895 +Impressed on their minds, as ever shall be, +The wonder that wrought the Lord of hosts +For saving of souls of the race of men, +The Teacher of life. There the sinner-through-lies +Then stied in the air, the flying fiend. 900 +Gan then exclaim the devil of hell, +The terrible monster, mindful of evils: +"Lo! whát man is this, who now again +With ancient strife my service will ruin, +Increase the old hate, [and] plunder my goods? 905 +This contest's increasing. The souls cannot, +Workers of sin, longer within +My power remain, now a stranger is come, +Whom I ere reckoned fast in his sins, +Me has he robbed of every right, 910 +Of precious possessions. That's nót a fair course. +To me many harms the Saviour has done, +Contests oppressive, he who in Nazareth +Was reared as a child. As soon as he grew +From childhood's years, he to hím ever turned 915 +Mine own possessions. I may not now +In any right thrive. His kingdom is broad +Over the mid-earth. My might is lessened +Under the heavens. The rood I need not +Joyfully praise. Lo! me the Saviour 920 +In that narrow home again has confined +Sadly for sorrow. Through Judas before +Joyful I was, and now am I humbled, +Deprived of goods, through Judas again, +Despised and friendless. Still can I find 925 +Through evil deeds return hereafter[1] +From the homes of the damned. 'Gainst thee will I rouse +Another king[2] who will persecute thee, +And he will reject thine own instruction, +And sinful manners of mine will he follow, 930 +And thee will he send then into the blackest +And into the worst terrors of torments, +That with sorrow beset thou'lt firmly renounce +The hangèd King whom ere thou obeyed'st." +To him then the cunning Judas replied, 935 +The battle-brave man (in him Holy Spirit +Was firmly implanted, fire-hot his love, +His wit was welling with warrior's craft), +And this word he spake with wisdom filled: +"Thou need not so strongly, mindful of sins, 940 +Sorrow renew, and strife uprear, +Sin-maker of murder, for thee mighty King +In the depths beneath will thrust thee down, +Worker of sin, to miseries' bottom +Deprived of glory, who many of the dead 945 +With his word awaked. Know thou the readier, +That thou with folly didst once renounce +Brightest of lights and love of the Lord, +The fairest joy, and in bath of fire, +Surrounded with torments, didst afterwards dwell, 950 +Consumed with flame, and there ever shalt, +Hostile in mind, punishment suffer, +Misery endless." Helena heard +How the fiend and the friend contests aroused, +The blest and the base, on both their sides, 955 +The sinner and the saint. Her mind was the gladder +For that she heard the hellish foe +[The fiend] overcome, the worker of sins, +And then she wondered at the wit of the man, +How hé so truthful in so little time 960 +And so untaught ever became +With wisdom inspired. [Then] thanked she God, +The King of glory, that her wish was fulfilled +Through the Son of God of each of the two, +Bóth for the sight of the victor-tree, 965 +Ánd of the faith that[3] so bright she perceived, +The glorious gift in the breast of the man. + + [1] So Z.; 'rebellion for this,' W. See W.'s note. + + [2] Julian the Apostate, suggests Gn. + + [3] 'That,' relative, though it may be taken as conjunction, + as Z. + + +XII. + +Thén was made known among that folk, +Throughout that nation widely proclaimed, +The great morning-news for a grievance to many 970 +Of those who God's law wished to conceal, +Announced in the towns far as waters embrace, +In each of the cities, that the rood of Christ +Once buried in earth had been discovered, +Brightest of beacons, which since or before 975 +Holy 'neath heavens had been upheaved; +And it was to the Jews the greatest of sorrows, +Unhappy men, most hateful of fates, +That they 'fore the world were unable to change it, +The joy of the Christians. Then bade the queen 980 +'Mong the host of earls heralds to hasten, +Quickly to journey; they should of the Romans +O'er the high sea the lord seek out, +Ánd to that warrior the best of tidings +Say, to himself, that the victor-sign 985 +Through Creator's favor had been recovered, +Found in the earth, which ages before +Had been concealed for sorrow to saints, +To Christian folk. Then was to the king +Through the glorious words his spirit gladdened, 990 +His heart rejoicing. Then was of inquirers +'Neath golden garments no lack in the cities +Come from afar. To him greatest of comforts +It became in the world at the wished-for tidings,-- +His heart delighted,--which army-leaders 995 +Over the east-ways, messengers, brought him, +How happy a journey over the swan-road +The men with the queen successfully made +To the land of the Greeks. The Cæsar bade them +With greatest haste again prepare 1000 +Themselves for the way. The men delayed not +As soon as they had the answer heard, +The words of the ætheling. Bade he Helena hail, +The war-famed greet, if they the sea-voyage +And happy journey were able to make, 1005 +Brave-minded men, to the holy city. +Bade also to her the messengers say +Constantínus, that she a church +On the mountain-slope for gain of both +Should there erect, a temple of God, 1010 +On Calvarý, for joy to Christ, +For help to men, where the holy rood +Had béen discovered, greatest of trees, +Of those that earth-dwellers ever heard named +Upon the earth. So she effected, 1015 +After dear kinsmen brought from the west +Over the ocean many loved tidings. +Then bade the queen those skilled in crafts +To seek out apart, the best of all, +Those who most cunningly knew how to work 1020 +In joinings of stones, on the open plain +God's temple to build. As the Warden of spirits +Her counselled from heaven, she bade the rood +With gold adorn and gems of all kinds, +With the most splendid of precious stones 1025 +To set with skill, and in silver chest +To enclose with locks. There that tree of life, +Best of victor-trees, has since remained +In nature eternal.[1] There 'twill be ever ready +A help to the sick 'gainst every ill, 1030 +Distress and sorrow. There soon will they +Through that holy creation assistance obtain, +A gift divine. Also Judas received +After fixed time the bath of baptism, +And cleansed became, trustful in Christ, 1035 +Dear to the Life-warden. His faith became +Firm in his heart, when the Spirit of comfort +Made his abode in the breast of the man, +To repentance him urged. The better he chose, +The joy of glory, and the worse he refused, 1040 +The service of idols, and error rejected, +Unlawful belief. To him King[2] eternal, +The Creator, was mild, God, Ruler of might. + + [1] So Z.; 'The noble wood,' Gm. and Gn. + + [2] Latin, _rex_. + + +XIII. + +Then hé was baptized who often before +The ready light [had long rejected, Gn.], 1045 +Inspired was his soul for that better life, +To glory turned. Fate surely ordained +That so full of faith and so dear to God +In realm of the world he should become, +[So] pleasing to Christ. That known became, 1050 +After that Helena bade them Eusebius, +Bishop of Rome, into council with her +To bring for help, the very wise [man] +By means of men,[1] to the holy city, +That he might ordain to the sacred office 1055 +Judas for the folk in Jerúsalém, +To be their bishop within the city, +Through gift of the Spirit for the temple of God +Chosen with wisdom, and him Cyriácus +Through counsel of wit she afterwards named 1060 +A second time. The name was changed +Of the man in the city henceforth for the better, +For the law of the Saviour. Then still Helena's +Mind was disturbed at the wondrous fate, +Very much for the nails, those which the Saviour's 1065 +Feet had pierced through and likewise his hands, +With which on the rood the Ruler of Heaven, +Lord mighty, was fastened. Of these gan ask +The Christians' queen, Cyriacus prayed +That still for her, by the might of his spirit, 1070 +For the wondrous fate the will he'ld fulfil, +Reveal by his gifts, and shé addressed +This word to the bishop, boldly she spake: +"Thou, earls' defence, the noble tree +Of heavens' King me rightly didst show, 1075 +On which was hanged by heathen hands +The Helper of spirits, own Son of God, +Saviour of men. Still of the nails +In thought of my mind curiosity troubles me. +I would thou should'st find those which yet in the earth 1080 +Deeply buried remain concealed, +Hidden in darkness. My heart ever sorrows, +Sad it complains and never will rest, +Ere for mé He fulfil, Almighty Father, +Ruler of hosts, mine own desire, 1085 +Saviour of men, by sight[2] of the nails, +The Holy from height. Now quickly do thou +With all humility, most excellent man, +Direct thy prayer to the heavens bright, +To the Ruler of glory, pray Strength of warriors, 1090 +That to thee may reveal the Almighty King +The hord 'neath the earth, that hidden still, +Concealed from men, in secret abides." +Then gan the holy one strengthen his heart, +Inspired in his breast the bishop of the folk, 1095 +Glad-minded, went with a crowd of men +Those praising God, and earnestly then +Cyriacús on Calvarý +Inclined his face, his secret concealed not, +With might of his spirit called upon God 1100 +With all humility, prayed Warden of angels +To open to him the unknown fate +In his new distress, where he the nails +Upon the plain Best need expect. +Then caused he the token, where they were looking, 1105 +The Father, hope's Spirit, in form of fire +Upwards to rise, where they most noble +By means of men[3] had once been hidden +With secret cunning, the nails in the earth. +Then suddenly came brighter than sun 1110 +The playing flame. The people saw +To the giver of their will[4] the wonder made known, +When there out of darkness, like stars of heaven +Or gems of gold, upon the bottom +The nails from the narrow bed shining beneath 1115 +Brilliantly glittered. The people rejoiced, +The glad-minded host, spake glory to God +With one accord all, though ere they were +By the devil's deceit long in error, +Estranged from Christ. Thus did they speak: 1120 +"Ourselves now we see the token of victory, +True wonder of God, that before we opposed +With lying words. Now is come into light, +Is revealed, fate's course. May glory for this +Have in the highest heaven-kingdom's God!" 1125 +Then hé was rejoiced who turned to repentance +Through the Son of God, the people's bishop, +A second time. He took the nails, +Disturbed with fear, ánd to the venerable +Queen did he bring them. Cyriacus had 1130 +It all fulfilled as the noble one bade him, +The woman's will. There was sound of weeping, +Hot head-welling was poured o'er her cheeks, +By no means for sorrow. The tears were falling +O'er the plaiting of wires.[5] With glory fulfilled 1135 +Was the wish of the queen. She knelt on her knees +With bright belief; she honored the gift, +Rejoicing with joy, which wás to her brought +For help in her sorrows. Then thanked she God, +The Lord of victories, that the truth she had learnt 1140 +At that present time, that oft was announced +So long before from creation of the world +For comfort to the people. Shé was inspired +With the gift of wisdom, and his dwelling held +Holy Spirit of heaven, guarded her breast, 1145 +Her noble heart. So her the Almighty +Victor-son of God after protected. + + [1] So Z.; 'With pomp of array,' Gn. + + [2] Lit., 'coming.' + + [3] Same expression as in 1054. + + [4] Lit., 'will-giver,' i.e., the queen. + + [5] i.e., her ornaments of gold. + + +XIV. + +Then eagerly gan she with secrets of soul +Seek in her spirit by soothfastnéss +The way to glory. Now God of hosts 1150 +His help bestowed, the Father in heaven, +Almighty King, that the queen obtained +Her will in the world. The prophecy was +By sages of old sung long before +All from beginning, as it afterwards happened 1155 +In respect to each thing. The folk-queen began +Through gift of the Spirit gladly to seek +With greatest care how best the nails, +And in manner most worthy, she might apply +For joy to the folk, what was will of the Lord. 1160 +Bade she then fetch a very wise man +Quickly to counsel, him who wisdom +Through clever might thoroughly knew, +Wise in his heart, and gan him ask +What in his soul seemed to him best 1165 +To do about that, and his teachings she chose +In respect to her conduct. Her boldly[1] he answered: +"That is becoming that word of the Lord +Thou hold in heart, holy counsel, +Most excellent queen, and the King's command 1170 +Gladly fulfil, now God has thee given +Success of soul and craft of wit, +The Saviour of men. Bid thou these nails +For that most excellent of earthly kings, +Of owners of cities, put on his bridle 1175 +For bit to his horse. To many that shall, +Throughout the mid-earth, become renowned, +When with that in contest he may overcome +Each one of his foes, when the brave-in-war +On either side the battle seek, 1180 +Sword-contenders, where they strive for victory, +Foe against foe. War-speed shall he have, +Victory in fight and everywhere peace, +In battle success, who carries in front +The bridle on horse, when the famed-in-fight 1185 +At clashing of spears, the choicest of men, +Bear shield and lance. To each one of men +Against war-terror shall be invincible +This weapon in war. The seer of it sang, +Cunning in thought. Deep moved his mind, 1190 +His wit of wisdom. This word he spake: +'That shall be known that the horse of the king +Shall 'neath the proud with bit be adorned, +With bridle-rings. That beacon to God +Shall holy be called, and that one valor-blessed, 1195 +Honored in war, who rides on that horse.'" +With haste then that did all perform +Helena 'fore earls, bade the ætheling's, +Heroes' ring-giver's, bridle adorn, +To her own son sent as a present 1200 +O'er ocean's stream the blameless gift. +She bade then together those whom as best +Of men she knew among the Jews, +Of the race of heroes, to the holy city, +To the town to come. Then gan the queen 1205 +The dear ones teach that love of the Lord +And peace likewíse among themselves, +The bond of friendship, they fast should hold +Without reproach in time of their life, +And they to the teacher's lore should hearken, 1210 +The Christian virtues that Cyriacus taught them, +Clever in books. The office of bishop +Was fairly made fast. From afar oft to him +The lame, the sick, the crippled came, +The halt, the wounded, the leprous and blind, 1215 +The lowly, the sad; always there health +At the hands of the bishop, healing, they found +Ever for ever. Yet Helena gave him +Treasures as presents, when ready she was +For the journey home, and bade she then all 1220 +In that kingdom of men who worshipped God, +Men and women, that they should honor +With mind and might that famous day, +With thoughts of the heart, whereon holy rood +Had béen discovered, greatest of trees, 1225 +Of those which from earth ever sprang up +Grown under leaves. Then spring was gone +Except six nights ere coming of summer +On the kalends of May. To each of those men +Be hell's door shut, heaven's unclosed, 1230 +Eternally opened the kingdom of angels, +Joy without end, and their portion appointed +Along with. Mary, who takes into mind +That one most dear of festal days +Of that rood under heaven, that which the mightiest 1235 +Ruler of all with arm protected. _Finit_.[2] + + [1] Gn.'s emendation. + + [2] Here properly ends the legend of the Finding of the Cross. + The last canto contains reflections of the poet. + + +XV. + +Thus old and death-ready in this frail house +Word-craft I wove and wondrously framed it, +Reflected at times and sifted my thought +Closely at night. I knew not well 1240 +The truth of the rood,[1] ere wider knowledge +Through glorious might into thought of my mind +Wisdom revealed to me. I was stained with crimes, +Fettered with sins, pained with sorrows, +Bitterly bound, banefully vexed, 1245 +Ere lore to me lent through light-bringing office +For help to the agèd, his blameless gift +The mighty King meted, and poured in my mind, +Brightness disclosed, widened with time, +Bone-house unbound, breast-lock unwound, 1250 +Song-craft unlocked, which I joyfully used, +With will, in the world. Of that tree of glory +Often not once meditation I had, +Ere that wonder I had revealed +About that bright tree, as in books I found 1255 +In course of events, in writings declared +Of that beacon of victory. Ay till then was the man +With care-waves oppressed, a nickering _pine-torch_[C], +Though he in the mead-hall treasures received, +Apples of gold.[2] Mourned for his _bow_[Y] 1260 +The comrade of _sorrow_[N], suffered distress, +His secret constrained, where before him the _horse_[E] +Measured the mile-paths, with spirit ran +Proud of his ornaments. _Hope_[W] is decreased, +Joy, after years, youth is departed, 1265 +The ancient pride. The _bison_[U] was once +The gladness of youth. Now are the old days +In course of time gone forever, +Life-joy departed, as _ocean_[L] flows by, +Waves hurried along. To each one is _wealth_[3][F] 1270 +Fleeting 'neath heaven, treasures of earth +Pass 'neath the clouds likest to wind, +When before men it mounts up aloud, +Roams 'round the clouds, raging rushes, +And then all at once silent becomes, 1275 +In narrow prison closely confined, +Strongly repressed. So passes this world, +And likewise besides what things[4] have been +In it produced flame will consume, +When the Lord himself judgment will seek 1280 +With host of angels. Every one there +Of speech-bearing men the truth shall hear +Of every deed through mouth of the Judge, +And likewise of words the penalty pay +Of all that with folly were spoken before, 1285 +Of daring thoughts. Then parts into three +Into clutch of fire each one of folk, +Of those that have dwelt in course of time +Upon the broad earth. The righteous shall be +Upmost-in flame, host of the blessed, 1290 +Crowd eager for glory, as they may bear it, +And without torment easily suffer, +Band of the brave. For them shall be moderate +The brightness of flame,[5] as it shall be easiest, +Softest for them. The sinful shall be, 1295 +Those spotted with evil, compressed in the middle, +Men sad-in-mind, within the hot waves +Smothered with smoke. The third part shall be, +Accursèd sinners, in the flood's abyss, +False folk-haters, fastened in flame 1300 +For deeds of old, gang of the godless +In grip of the gledes. To God never more +From that place of torment come they in mind, +To the King of glory, but théy shall be cast +From that terrible fire to the bottom of hell, 1305 +The workers of woe. To the [other] two parts +It will be unlike. They may angels' Lord, +Victories' God, see. Théy shall be cleansed, +Sundered from sins, as smelted gold, +That is in the flame from every spot 1310 +Through fire of the oven thoroughly cleansed, +Freed and refined. So shall each of those men +Be freed and made pure from every sin, +From heavy crimes through fire of that doom. +Then afterwards théy may peace enjoy, 1315 +Eternal bliss. To them angels' Warden +Shall be mild and gentle, for that théy every evil +Despised, sins' work, and to Son of their Maker +They called with words. Hence in beauty they shine now +Like to the angels, the heritage have 1320 +Of the King of glory for ever and ever. Amen. + + [1] Gn.'s emendation. + + [2] Lit.,'appled gold.' + + [3] The words in italics are the names of the runes that make + up the name CYNEWULF. This artificial use of words makes + the interpretation obscure, and scholars differ about it. + + [4] Or, 'those who.' + + [5] Gn., Z. + + + + +JUDITH. + + +IX. + +* * * * * * * * +[The glorious Creator's][1] gifts doubted she [not] +Upón this wide earth; then found she there ready +Help from the mighty Prince, when she most need did have +Of grace from the highest Judge, that her 'gainst the greatest terror +The Lord of Creation should shield. That Father in heaven to her +The Glorious-in-mind did grant, for thát firm faith she had +Ín the Almighty ever. Then heard I that Holofernes +Wine-summons eagerly wrought, and with all wonders a glorious +Banquet had hé prepared; to thát bade the prince of men +All his noblest thanes. Thát with mickle haste 10 +Did the warriors-with-shields perform; came to the mighty chief +The people's leaders going. Ón the fourth day was that +After that Judith, cunning in mind, +The elf-sheen virgin, him first had sought. + + [1] Gn.'s emendation to fill _lacuna_ of MS. + + +X. + +They then at the feast proceeded to sit, 15 +The proud to the wine-drinking, all his comrades-in-ill, +Bold mailèd-warriors. There were lofty beakers +Oft borne along the benches, alsó were cups and flagons +Full to the hall-sitters borne. The fated partook of them, +Brave warriors-with-shields, though the mighty weened not of it, 20 +Awful lord of earls. Thén was Holofernes, +Gold-friend of men, full of wine-joy: +He laughed and clamored, shouted and dinned, +That children of men from afar might hear +How the strong-minded both stormed and yelled, 25 +Moody and mead-drunken, often admonished +The sitters-on-benches to bear themselves[1] well. +Thus did the hateful one during all day +His liege-men [loyal] keep plying with wine, +Stout-hearted giver of treasure, untíl they lay in a swoon, 30 +He drenched all his nobles [with drink], as if they were slain in death, +Deprived[2] of each one of goods. Thus bade the prince of men +The sitters-in-hall to serve, untíl to children of men +The darkening night drew nigh. He bade then, filled with hate, +The blessed maiden with haste to fetch 35 +To his bed of rest, laden with jewels, +Adorned with rings. They quickly performed, +The attendant thanes, what their lord them bade, +Mailed-warriors' prince; like a flash they stepped +Into the guest-room, where they Judith 40 +Wise-minded found, and quickly then +The warriors-with-shields began to lead +The glorious maid to the lofty tent +Where the mighty himself always[3] rested +By night within, to the Saviour hateful, 45 +Holofernes. There wás an all-golden +Beautiful fly-net around the folk-warrior's +Bed suspended, só that the hateful +Was able to look through, the chief of warriors, +Upon each one that therein came 50 +Of the sons of heroes, and on him no one +Of the race of men, unless the proud some one +Of the strong-in-war bade to him nearer +Of warriors for counsel to come. They then to him at rest brought +Quickly the cunning woman; went then the stout-in-heart 55 +The men their lord to tell that the holy woman was +Brought to his chamber-tent. The famous then in mind +Was glad, the ruler of cities; he thought the beautiful maiden +With spot and stain to defile: that Judge of glory would not +Allow, the Keeper of honor, but him from that deed restrained 60 +The Lord, the Ruler of hosts. Went then the devilish one, +The wanton [warrior-prince],[4] with [mickle] band of men, +The baleful his bed to seek, where hé his life should lose +Quickly within one night; he had then his end attained[5] +On earth ungentle [end], such as before he wrought for, 65 +The mighty prince of men, while ín this world he was, +While he dwelt under roof of the clouds. Then fell so drunk with wine +The mighty [chief] on his bed, as if he knew no rede +Within his place of wit; the warriors stepped +Oút from the chamber with mickle haste, 70 +The wine-filled men, whó the oath-breaker, +Hateful folk-hater, had led to his bed +For the very last time. Then was the Saviour's +Glorious maiden earnestly mindful +How she the terrible most easily might 75 +Of life deprive before the lustful, +The wanton, awoke. The wreathed-locked took then, +The Creator's handmaid, a sharp-edged sword +Hardened by war-strokes [?],[6] and drew from its sheath +With hér right hand; then Keeper of heaven 80 +By name she gan name, Saviour of all +Dwellers-in-th' world, and this word she spake: +"Thee, God of Creation, and Spirit of Comfort, +Son of the Almighty, will I [now] pray +For thine own mercy to me in my need, 85 +Trinity's Glory. To me greatly now then +My heart is inflamed, and my mind is sad, +Sorely with sorrows oppressed; grant, Lord of Heaven, to me +Victory and faith without fear, that I with this sword may be able +To hew down this dealer of murder; grant [too] my safety to me, 90 +Strong-hearted Leader of men; ne'er in this world had I +Of thy mercy more urgent need: avenge now, mighty Lord, +Glorious Giver of honor, that I am so angry in mind, +So heated within my breast." Hér then the highest Judge +Quickly with courage inspired, as doth he [ever] each one 95 +Of dwellers here [upon earth], who him for help to them seek +With rede and righteous belief. Then roomy in mind she became, +The holy one's hope was renewed; then took she the heathen man +Fast by his own [long] hair, with hands him towards her she drew +With marks of contempt, and the baleful one 100 +With cunning laid down, the loathsome man, +As she the accursèd most easily might +Wield at her will. Struck then the curly-locked +The hostile foe with shining[7] sword, +The hateful-minded, that half-way she cut 105 +The [evil one's] neck, that he lay in a swoon, +Drunken and wounded. Not yet was he dead, +Thoroughly lifeless; struck she then earnestly, +The maiden brave-minded, a second time +The heathen hound, that his head rolled off 110 +Forth on the floor: the foul corpse lay +Lifeless behind, went the spirit elsewhere +Beneath the deep earth, and there was disgraced, +In torment bound ever thereafter, +Surrounded with serpents, with tortures encompassed, 115 +Strongly enchained in the fire of hell +After his death. He need never hope, +Enveloped with darkness, that thence he may go +Out of that worm-hall, but there shall he dwell +Ever for ever without end henceforth 120 +In that dark home, of hope-joys deprived. + + [1] 'Loudly carouse,' Kr. and C. + + [2] 'Gorged with,' Kr. and C. + + [3] Or, 'after feast.' + + [4] 'King,' Gn. and Kr., but _guðfreca_ suits the verse better + than _cyning_, and even that is not metrically sufficient + to fill the _lacuna_. + + [5] Lit., 'awaited.' + + [6] So Gn.? 'Scouring,' Sw.?, Kr.?, C. + + [7] 'Hostile,' Sw.? + + +XI. + +Then had she gained glorious honor, +Judith in war, as God to her granted, +The Ruler of Heaven, who gave to her victory. +The cunning maid then quickly brought 125 +The army-leader's head so bloody +In that [very] vessel in which her attendant, +The fair-faced woman, food for them both, +In virtues renowned, thither had brought, +And it then so gory to her gave in hand, 130 +To the thoughtful-in-mind to bear to their home, +Judith to her maid. Went they forth thence, +The women both in courage bold, +Until they had come, proud in their minds, +The women triumphant, out from the army, 135 +So that they plainly were able to see +Of that beautiful city the walls [fair] shine, +Béthulía. Then jewel-decked théy +Upon the foot-path hastened to go, +Until glad-minded they had arrived 140 +At the gate of the wall. The warriors sat, +The watching men were keeping ward +Within that fortress, as before to the folk, +Sad in their minds, Judith had bidden, +The cunning maiden, when she went on her journey, 145 +The stout-hearted woman. Then again was she come, +Dear to her people, and then quickly ordered +The wise-minded woman some one of the men +To come to meet her from out the wide city, +And hér in haste to admit within 150 +Through the gate of the wall, and this word she spake +To the victor-folk: "To you can I say +A thought-worthy[1] thing, that no longer ye need +Mourn in your minds: your Creator is kind, +Glory of kings: that ís become known 155 +Wide through the world, that to you is success +Glorious at hand, and honor is granted +For [all] those sorrows which long ye suffered." +Glad then were they, the dwellers-in-borough, +After they heard how the holy one spake 160 +O'er the high wall. The host was in joy. +To the fortress-gate the people hastened, +Men, women together, in troops and heaps, +In crowds and throngs, hurried and ran +To meet the Lord's maid by thousands and thousands, 165 +Both old and young: to each one became +Of men in the mead-city his mind rejoiced, +After they knew that Judith was come +Again to her home, and then in haste +With reverence théy allowed her to enter. 170 +Then bade the clever, with gold adorned, +Her servant-maid, thoughtful-in-mind, +The army-leader's head to uncover, +And it as a proof bloody to show +To the city-folk how she speeded in war. 175 +Then spake the noble one to all the folk: +"Here ye may clearly, victory-blessed warriors, +Chiefs of the people, upón the most hateful +Heathen hero's head fix your gaze, +On Holofernes deprived of life, 180 +Who chiefest of men wrought murders for us, +Sorest sorrows, and that yet more +Would he increase: but God him granted not +A longer life, that hé with woes +Might still afflict us. Of life I deprived him 185 +By help of God. Now I every man +Of these city-dwellers will [earnestly] pray, +Of shield-bearing warriors, that ye yourselves quickly +Hasten to fight; when the God of creation, +The glorious King, shall send from the east 190 +Bright beams of light, bear forth your shields, +Boards before breasts and coats-of-mail, +Bright helmets [too] among the foes, +To fell the folk-leaders with shining swords, +The fated chiefs. Your foes are now 195 +Condemned to death, and ye glory shall gain, +Honor in battle, as to you hath betokened +The mighty Lord through mine own hand." +Then the band of the brave was quickly prepared, +Of the bold for battle; stepped out the valiant 200 +Men and comrades, bore their banners, +Went forth to fight straight on their way +The heroes 'neath helmets from the holy city +At the dawn itself; shields made a din, +Loudly resounded. Thereat laughed the lank 205 +Wolf in the wood, and the raven wan, +Fowl greedy for slaughter: both of them knew +That for them the warriors thought to provide +Their fill on the fated; and flew on their track +The dewy-winged eagle eager for prey, 210 +The dusky-coated sang his war-song, +The crooked-beaked. Stepped forth the warriors, +The heroes for battle with boards protected, +With hollow shields, who awhile before +The foreign-folk's reproach endured, 215 +The heathens' scorn; fiercely was thát +At the ash-spear's play to them all repaid, +[All] the Assyrians, after the Hebrews +Under their banners had [boldly] advanced +To the army-camps. They bravely then 220 +Forthright let fly showers of arrows, +Of battle-adders, óut from the horn-bows, +Of strongly-made shafts; stormed they aloud, +The cruel warriors, sent forth their spears +Among the brave; the heroes were angry, 225 +The dwellers-in-land, with the loathéd race; +The stern-minded stepped, the stout-in-heart, +Rudely awakened their ancient foes +Weary from mead; with hands drew forth +The men from the sheaths the brightly-marked swords 230 +Most choice in their edges, eagerly struck +Of the [host of] Assyrians the battle-warriors, +The hostile-minded; not one they spared +Of the army-folk, nor low nor high +Of living men, whom théy might subdue. 235 + + [1] 'Thank-worthy,' Kr. + + +XII. + +Thus then the thanes in the morning-hours +Pressed on the strangers unceasinglý, +Until they perceived, those who were hostile, +The army-folk's chiefest leaders, +That upón them sword-strokes mighty bestowed 240 +The Hebrew men. They thát in words +To their most noted chiefs of the people +Went to announce, waked helmeted warriors +And to thém with fear the dread news told, +To the weary-from-mead the morning-terror, 245 +The hateful sword-play. Then learnt I that quickly +The slaughter-fated men aroused from sleep +Ánd to the baleful's sleeping-bower +The saddened[1] men pressed ón in crowds, +To Holofernes: they only were thinking 250 +To their own lord to make known the fight, +Ere terror on him should take its seat, +The might of the Hebrews. They all imagined +That the prince of men and the handsome maid +In the beautiful tent were [still] together, 255 +Judith the noble and the lustful one, +Dreadful and fierce; though no earl there was +Whó the warrior durst [then] awake, +Or durst discover how the helmeted warrior +With the holy maid had passed his time, 260 +The Creator's handmaid. The force approached, +The folk of the Hebrews, courageously fought +With hard battle-arms, fiercely repaid +Their former fights with shining[2] swords, +The old-time grudge; was óf the Assyrians 265 +By thát day's work the glory diminished, +The pride brought low. The warriors stood +'Round their prince's tent strongly excited, +Gloomy in mind. They then all together +Began to groan,[3] to cry aloud 270 +And gnash with their teeth,--afar from God,-- +Showing their anger; 'twas the end of their glory, +Of joy and valor. The earls were thinking +To awaken their lord; they did not succeed. +Then at last and too late was one so bold 275 +Of the battle-warriors that to the bower-tent +He daringly ventured, since need him compelled: +Found he then on the bed lying deadly-pale +His [own] gold-giver of breath bereft, +Of life deprived. Then quickly he fell 280 +Astounded to earth, gan tear his hair, +Excited in mind, and his garments too, +And this word he spake to the warriors [brave], +Who saddened there were standing without: +"Here is displayed our own destruction, 285 +The future betokened, that it is to the time +Now amongst men[4] almost arrived, +When wé our lives shall lose together, +In battle perish: here lies with sword hewn +Our lord beheaded." They then sad-in-mind 290 +Threw down their weapons and sorrowful went +To hasten in flight. They fought on their tracks, +The mighty folk, till the greatest part +Of the army lay, in battle struck down, +On the victor-plain, hewn down with swords, 295 +To wolves for pleasure, and to slaughter-greedy +Fowls for a joy. Those who lived fled +The shields of their foes.[5] Went on their tracks +The Hebrews' host, honored with victory, +With glory ennobled; them took the Lord God 300 +Fairly to help, the Lord Almighty. +They bravely then with shining swords, +Stout-hearted heroes, a war-path wrought +Through heaps of their foes, hewed down their shields, +Cut through their phalanx: the warriors were 305 +Enraged in battle, the Hebrew men; +The thanes at that time were much delighted +At the combat with spears. Here fell in the dust +The highest part of the chiefest number +Óf the Assyrians' princely nobility, 310 +Of the hateful race; very few came +Alive to their homes. The nobly-bold turned, +Warriors retiring, among the slaughtered, +The smoking corpses; it was time to take +For the dwellers-in-land from the loathsome ones, 315 +Their ancient foes deprived of life, +The gory booty, the shining trappings, +Shields and broad swords, brown-colored helmets, +Precious treasures. Gloriously had they +On thát folk-place their foes overcome, 320 +The defenders of home their ancient foes +With swords put-to-sleep: behind them rested +Those who in life were most hateful to them +Of living races. Then all the people, +Of tribes most renowned, for one month's space, 325 +The proud twisted-locked, bore and carried +To that bright city, Bethulia [named], +Helmets and hip-swords, hoary byrnies, +War-trappings of men adorned with gold, +More precious treasures than any man 330 +Of the cunning-in-mind may be able to tell, +All that the warriors with might had won, +The bold under banners on the battle-place +By means of Judith's [most] clever lore, +The moody[6] maid's. As meed for her 335 +From that expedition, they brought for herself, +The spear-strong earls, of Holofernes +The sword and gory helm, likewíse the byrnie broad, +Adorned with reddish gold, all that the warrior-chief, +The brave, of treasure had, or individual wealth, 340 +Of rings and jewels bright; thát to the lady fair, +The wise-in-mind, gave théy. For all that Judith said +Glory to the Lord of hosts, who honor to her gave, +Fame in realm of earth, and meed in heaven too, +Reward in the glory of heaven, because true faith she had 345 +Ín the Almighty ever; now at last she doubted not +Of the meed which long she yearned for. For that to the dear Lord be +Glory for ever and ever, who made both wind and air, +The heavens and roomy lands, likewíse the rushing streams, +And joys of firmament too by means of his mercy mild. 350 + + [1] So Sw.; 'weary in mind,' Gn., Kr., C. + + [2] 'Hostile,' C., though 'flashing,' 194, and 'gleaming,' + 302. + + [3] Lit., 'cough.' + + [4] So Gn. and Kr.; 'with violence,' Sw.; 'with afflictions,' + C. + + [5] So Sw. and Kr.; 'Of the hostile shield-warriors,' Gn. and + C. + + [6] i.e., 'spirited.' + + + + +ATHELSTAN, + +OR + +THE FIGHT AT BRUNANBURH. + + +Æthelstan King, of earls the lord, +Of heroes ring-giver, and his brother too, +Edmund Ætheling, enduring fame +Earned in the fight with edges of swords +By Brunanburh. The board-wall they cleaved, 5 +The war-shields hewed with leavings of hammers +The sons of Edward. 'Twas natural to them +By right of descent that in battle they oft +'Gainst every foe their land defended, +Their hoards and homes. The foes were fallen, 10 +Folk of the Scots and men of the ships, +Fated they fell. The field ran thick[1] +With heroes' blood, when the risen sun +At morning-time, the mighty orb, +Shone o'er the earth, bright candle of God, 15 +Eternal Lord, till the noble creature +Sank to his rest. There many men lay +Struck down[2] with spears, men from the North, +Shot o'er the shield, and Scotsmen too, +Weary [and] war-filled. The West-Saxons forth 20 +The live-long day with legions of warriors +Pressed on the heels of the hostile foes; +They felled the fleers with force from behind +With sharp-ground swords. Shrank not the Mercians +From hard hand-play with any of heroes, 25 +Of those who with Anlaf o'er welling of waves +On the deck of the ship had sought the land, +Fated for fight. Five of them lay +On the battle-field, young kings [they were], +Slaughtered[3] with swords, and also seven 30 +Earls of Anlaf, and unnumbered host +Of seamen and Scots. There was forced to flee +The Northmen's chief, by need compelled +To the prow of his ship with few attendants. +Keel crowded[4] the sea, the king went forth 35 +On the fallow flood; he saved his life. +There too the agèd escaped by flight +To his home in the North, Constantínus. +The hoar war-hero was unable to boast +Of attendance of men; he was robbed of his kinsmen, 40 +Bereaved of his friends on the battle-field, +Conquered in fight, and he left his son +On the place of slaughter wasted with wounds, +The boy in the battle. He durst not boast, +The gray-haired warrior, of the clash of swords, 45 +The agèd enemy, nor Anlaf the more. +With their army-remnant they durst not rejoice +That in deeds of war they proved to be better +On the place of battle, the striking of standards, +The mingling of spears, the meeting of men, 50 +The clashing of weapons, when on slaughter-field +In contest with Edward's sons they contended. +Departed the Northmen in nailèd ships, +Drear remnant of darts, on the sea of Dyng[5][?], +O'er the water deep Dublin to seek, 55 +Back to land of the Erse, depressed in mind. +Likewise the brothers both together, +King and ætheling, were seeking their home, +West-Saxons' land, exulting in war. +Behind them they let the corpses share 60 +The dark-feathered fowl, the raven black, +The crooked-beaked, and the ashy-feathered, +White-tailed eagle enjoy the prey, +The greedy war-hawk, and the gray-clad beast, +The wolf in the wood. More corpses there wére not 65 +Upon this island ever as yet +Of folk down-felled before this time +With edges of sword, as books to us tell, +Sages of old, since hither from East +Angles and Saxons came to this land, 70 +O'er the broad ocean Britain [once] sought, +Haughty war-smiths the Welsh overcame, +Earls eager for honor this earth acquired. + + [1] Lit., 'became slippery,' Gn.; 'babbled' (as a brook), or + 'became dark,' Kr.; 'streamed,' Th. + + [2] 'Scattered,' Th. + + [3] Lit., 'put to sleep.' + + [4] Or, 'He pressed ship on the sea', 'drove,' Th. + + [5] Gn. and W. take _Dyng_ as a proper name, but no one knows + who Dyng was. Kr. leaves _on dynges mere_ untranslated, + with the remark: "_ist unaufgeklärt._" He thinks it refers + to some bay in Ireland, from which the invaders set out, but + why may it not be a name for the Irish Sea itself? Th. + translates 'on the roaring sea,' but adds 'quite + conjectural.' + + + + +BYRHTNOTH, + +OR + +THE FIGHT AT MALDON. + + +* * * * * * was broken. +Then bade he each youth his horse to forsake, +To hasten afar and forwards to go, +Be mindful of might, of mood courageous. +This Offa's kinsman at once perceived 5 +That the earl was unwilling faint heart to endure. +Then he let from his hands his lief[1] hawk fly, +His hawk to the holt, and to battle he stepped; +By thát might one know that the knight was unwilling +To be weak in the war when to weapons he took. 10 +By him too would Eadric, by his overlord, stand, +His chief in the fight; then forth gan he bear +His spear to the battle: brave spirit had he +The while that with hands he was able to hold +Shield and broad sword; his boast he fulfilled,[2] 15 +When hé 'fore his lord was bound to fight. +There Byrhtnoth gan then his warriors embolden, +Rode and gave rede, instructed his men +Hów they should stand, and the stead sustain, +And bade that rimmed shields they rightly should hold 20 +Fast with their fists, and frightened be never. +When hé had the folk fairly emboldened, +With his men he alighted where was liefest to him, +Whére his hearth-followers most faithful he knew. +Then stood on the stathe,[3] stoutly did call 25 +The wikings' herald, with words he spake, +Who boastfully bore fróm the brine-farers +An errand to th' earl, where he stood on the shore: +"To thee me did send the seamen snell,[4] +Bade to thee say, thou must send to them quickly 30 +Bracelets for safety; and 'tis better for you +That _ye_ this spear-rush with tribute buy off +Than _we_ in so fierce a fight engage. +We need not each spill,[5] if ye speed to this: +We will for the pay a peace confirm. 35 +If thou that redest who art highest in rank, +If thou thy lieges art willing to loose, +To pay to the seamen at their own pleasure +Money for peace, and take peace from us, +We will with the treasure betake us to ship, 40 +Fare on the flood, and peace with you confirm." +Byrhtnoth replied, his buckler uplifted, +Waved his slim spear, with words he spake, +Angry and firm gave answer to him: +"Hear'st thou, seafarer, what saith this folk? 45 +They will for tribute spear-shafts you pay, +Poisonous points and trusty[6] swords, +Those weapons that you in battle avail not. +Herald of seamen, hark[7] back again, +Say to thy people much sadder words, 50 +Here stands not unknown an earl with his band, +Whó will defend this father-land, +Æthelred's home, mine own liege lord's, +His folk and field: ye're fated to fall, +Ye heathen, in battle. Too base it me seems 55 +That ye with our scats[8] to ship may go +Unfought against, so far ye now hither +Intó our country have come within; +Ye shall not so gently treasure obtain; +Shall spear and sword sooner beseem us, 60 +Grim battle-play, ere tribute we give." +Then bade he shield bear, warriors advance, +So that on the burn-stathe[9] they all were standing. +Might not thére for the water one war-band to th' other, +When flowing flood came after the ebb, 65 +Sea-streams interlocked; too long seemed it them +Till they together their spears should bear. +Then Panta's stream with pomp[10] [?] they beset, +East-Saxons' chief and the host from the ships: +No one of them might do harm to the other, 70 +But he who by dart's flight his death should receive. +The flood ebbed forth; the fleetmen stood ready, +Many of wikings, eager for war. +Bade heroes' buckler[11] then hold the bridge +A war-hardened warrior, who Wulfstan was named, 75 +Bold 'mid his kin (he was Ceola's son), +Who the first man with his dart shot down +That there most boldly stepped on the bridge. +There stood with Wulfstan warriors fearless, +Ælfhere and Maccus, courageous the twain; 80 +At the ford they would nót seek safety in flight, +But firm 'gainst the foes themselves they defended, +The while that they weapons were able to wield. +When they that perceived and earnestly saw +That there bridge-fenders [so] fierce they found, 85 +Began to lie these loathly guests: +Begged that out-going they might obtain, +Fare o'er the ford, their footmen lead. +Then gan the earl on account of his pride +Leave too much land to the loathly people. 90 +Began then to call o'er the water cold +The son[12] of Byrhthelm (the warriors listened): +"Now room is allowed you, come quickly to us, +Warriors to war; wot God alone +Who thís battle-field may be able to keep." 95 +Waded the war-wolves, for water they recked not, +The wikings' band, west over Panta, +O'er the clear water carried their shields, +Boatmen to bank their bucklers bore. +There facing their foes ready were standing 100 +Byrhtnoth with warriors: with shields he bade +The war-hedge[13] work, and the war-band hold +Fast 'gainst the foes. Then fight was nigh, +Glory in battle; the time was come +That fated men should there [now] fall. 105 +Then out-cry was raised, the ravens circled, +Eagle eager for prey; on earth was uproar. +Then they let from their fists the file-hardened spears, +The darts well-ground, [fiercely][14] fly forth: +The bows were busy, board point received, 110 +Bitter the battle-rush, warriors fell down, +On either hands the youths lay dead. +Wounded was Wulfmær, death-rest he chose, +Byrhtnoth's kinsman, with bills[15] was hé, +His sister's son, mightily hewn. 115 +There was to the wikings recompense given; +Heard I that Edward one of them slew +Strongly with sword, stroke he withheld not, +That fell at his feet the fated warrior; +For that did his prince give thanks to him, 120 +To his bower-thane,[16] when he had opportunity. +So firmly stood the fierce-in-mind, +The youths in fight, eagerly thought +Who there with his spear might soonest be able +From a fated man the life to win, 125 +A warrior with weapons: the dead to earth fell. +Steadfast they stood; strengthened them Byrhtnoth, +Bade that each youth of battle should think +He whó on the Danes glory would gain. +Went then a war-brave, his weapon uplifted, 130 +His shield for defence, and strode towards the chief; +So earnest he went, the earl to the churl: +Each for the other of evil was thinking. +Sent then the seaman his spear from the south +That wounded wás the warrior's lord; 135 +Then he shoved with his shield that the shaft in two broke, +And the spear was shivered; so sprang it back. +Enraged was the warrior: with his spear he thrust +The wiking proud, who the wound him gave. +Wise was the warrior; he let his spear pierce 140 +Through the neck of the youth; his hand it guided +So that hé his foe of life deprived. +Then he another speedily shot, +That the byrnie burst; in breast was he wounded +Through the ringèd mail; there stood in his heart 145 +The poisonous point. The earl was the gladder; +Laughed the proud man, to his Maker gave thanks +For the work of that day that the Lord him gave. +Then let one of warriors a dart from his hands, +Fly from his fist, that forth it went 150 +Thróugh that noble thane of Æthelred. +There stood by his side a youth not grown, +A boy in the fight, whó very boldly +Drew from the warrior the bloody spear, +The son of Wulfstan, Wulfmær the young; 155 +He let the hard weapon fly back again; +The point in-pierced, that on earth he lay +Who erst his lord strongly had struck. +Went then an armored man to the earl, +He would the warrior's jewels fetch back, 160 +Armor and rings and sword well-adorned. +Then Byrhtnoth drew his sword from its sheath, +Broad and brown-edged, and on byrnie he struck: +Too quickly him hindered one of the seamen, +When he of the earl the arm had wounded; 165 +Fell then to earth the fallow-hilt sword: +He might not hold the hardened brand, +His weapon wield. Yet the word he spake, +The hoary hero the youths encouraged, +Bade forwards go his good companions: 170 +He might not on foot longer stand firm; +He looked up to heaven, [the earl exclaimed:[17]] +"I thanks to thee give, Ruler of nations, +For all those joys that on earth I experienced: +Now, Maker mild, most need have I 175 +That thou to my spirit the blessing grant, +That my soul to thee may take its course, +Intó thy power, Prince of angels, +With peace may go: I pray to thee, +That fiends of hell may not it harm." 180 +Then hewed him down the heathen hinds, +And both the warriors, who by him stood, +Ælfnoth and Wulfmær both lay down dead, +Beside their lord gave up their lives. +Then bowed they from battle who there would not be; 185 +There Odda's sons were erst in flight: +From battle went Godric, and the good one forsook, +Who hád on him many a steed oft bestowed: +He leaped on the horse that his lord had owned, +Upon those trappings that right it was not, 190 +And his brothers with him both ran away, +Godrinc and Godwig, recked not of war, +But went from the fight, and sought the wood, +Fled to the fastness, and saved their lives, +And more of the men than wás at all meet, 195 +If they those services all had remembered, +That he for their welfare to them had done; +So Offa to him one day had erst said +At the meeting-place, when he held a moot, +That there [very] proudly they many things spake 200 +Which after in need they would not perform.[18] +Thén was down-fallen the prince of the folk, +Æthelred's earl: all of them saw, +The hearth-companions, that their lord lay dead. +Then hurried there forth the haughty thanes, 205 +The valiant men eagerly hastened: +They would then all the one of the two, +Their lives forsake or their loved one avenge. +So urged them ón the son of Ælfric, +A winter-young warrior, with words them addressed. 210 +Then Ælfwine quoth (boldly he spake): +"Remember the times that we oft at mead spake, +When we on the bench our boast upraised, +Heroes in hall, the hard fight anent: +Now may be tested who is the true.[19] 215 +I will my lineage to all make known, +That I 'mong the Mercians of mickle race was, +My grandfather wás Ealhhelm by name, +An alderman wise, with wealth endowed. +Ne'er shall 'mong this folk me thanes reproach 220 +That I from this host will hasten to wend, +My home to seek, now lies my lord +Down-hewn in fight; to me 'tis great harm: +By blood he was kin and by rank he was lord."[20] +Then went he forth, was mindful of feud, 225 +That hé with his spear one of them pierced, +A sailor o' the folk, that he lay on the ground +Killed with his weapon. Gan he comrades exhort, +Friends and companions, that forth they should go. +Offa addressed them, his ash-spear shook: 230 +"Lo! Ælfwine, thóu hast all admonished, +Thanes, of the need. Now lieth our lord, +Earl on the earth, to us all there is need +That each one of us should strengthen the other +Warrior to war, while weapon he may 235 +[Still] have and hold, the hardened brand, +Spear and good sword. Us hath Godric, +Cowed son of Offa, all [basely] deceived: +So many men thought when on mare he rode, +On thát proud steed, that it wás our lord: 240 +Therefore in field here the folk was divided, +The phalanx broken: may perish his deed, +That he here so many men caused to flee!" +Leofsunu spake, and uplifted his shield, +His buckler for guard; to the warrior he quoth: 245 +"I promise thee this, that hence I will nót +A foot's breadth flee, but further will go, +Avenge in battle mine own dear lord. +Me need not 'round Stourmere the steadfast heroes +With words reproach, now my friend has fallen, 250 +That, lacking my lord, home I depart, +Wend from the war, but weapons shall take me, +Spear and iron."[21] Full angry he strode, +Firmly he fought, flight he despised. +Then Dunnere spake, his spear he shook, 255 +The agèd churl, called over all, +Bade that each warrior should Byrhtnoth avenge: +"He may not delay who thinks to avenge +His lord on the folk, nor care for his life." +Then forwards they went, they recked not of life; 260 +Gan then his followers valiantly fight, +Spear-bearers grim, and to God they prayed, +That théy might avenge their own dear lord, +And upon their foes slaughter fulfil. +Then gan the hostage eagerly help: 265 +He was 'mong Northumbrians of valiant race, +The son of Ecglaf, his name was Æscferth: +Ne'er wavered hé in that play of war, +But he hastened forth many a dart; +At times shot on shield, at times killed a chief, 270 +Ever and anon inflicted some wound, +The while that he weapon was able to wield. +Then still in front stood Edward the long, +Ready and eager; boastingly said +That hé would not flee a foot-breadth of land, 275 +Backwards withdraw, when his better lay dead: +Broke he the shield-wall and fought 'gainst the warriors, +Till hé his ring-giver upón the seamen +Worthily avenged, ere he lay on the field. +So [too] did Ætheric, noble companion, 280 +Ready and eager, earnestly fought he; +Sigebryht's brother and many another +Cleft the curved[22] board, them bravely defended; +Shield's border burst, and the byrnie sang +A terrible song. In battle then slew 285 +Offa the seaman that on earth he fell, +And the kinsman of Gadd there sought the ground; +Quickly in battle was Offa hewn down: +He had though fulfilled what he promised his lord, +As hé before vowed in face of his ring-giver, 290 +That both of them shóuld ride to the borough, +Hale to their homes, or in battle should fall, +Upón the slaughter-place die of their wounds; +He lay like a thane his lord beside. +Then was breaking of boards; the seamen stormed, 295 +Enraged by the fight; the spear oft pierced +The fated one's life-house. Forth then went Wigstan, +Son of Thurstan, fought 'gainst the foes: +He wás in the throng the slayer of three, +Ere Wigelin's bairn lay dead on the field. 300 +There fierce was the fight: firmly they stood, +Warriors in war, the fighters fell, +Weary with wounds; fell corpses to earth. +Oswald and Ealdwald during all the while, +Both of the brothers, emboldened the warriors, 305 +Their kinsman-friends bade they in words, +That they in need should there endure, +Unwaveringlý their weapons use. +Byrhtwold [then] spake, uplifted his shield,-- +Old comrade was he,--his spear he shook, 310 +Hé very boldly exhorted the warriors: +"The braver shall thought be, the bolder the heart, +The more the mood,[23] as lessens our might. +Here lieth our lord, all hewn to pieces, +The good on the ground: ever may grieve 315 +Who now from this war-play thinketh to wend. +I am old in years: hence will I not, +But here beside mine own dear lord, +So loved a man, I purpose to lie." +So Æthelgar's bairn them all emboldened, 320 +Godric, to battle: oft let he his spear, +His war-spear wind amongst the wikings; +So 'midst the folk foremost he went, +Hewed he and felled, till in battle he lay; +This was nót that Godric who fled from the fight. 325 +* * * * * * * * + + [1] Dear. + + [2] Or, 'maintained.' + + [3] Bank. + + [4] Bold. + + [5] Destroy. + + [6] Lit., 'old.' + + [7] Lit., 'announce.' + + [8] Money. + + [9] Bank of the stream. + + [10] i.e., 'battle-array,' Sw., but the word is uncertain; Kr. + suggests 'fascines'; Zl. merely gives '_Prunk_.' + + [11] i.e., Byrhtnoth. + + [12] i.e., Byrhtnoth. + + [13] i.e., the phalanx with interlocked shields. + + [14] Some such word as _grame_, or _grimme_, seems needed for + the alliteration. + + [15] i.e., battle-axes. + + [16] Chamberlain. + + [17] Inserted by Kr. to fill the _lacuna_, whom W. follows; + Sw. and Zl. omit. + + [18] Lit., 'suffer,' 'endure.' + + [19] Lit., 'bold.' + + [20] Lit., 'He was both my kinsman and my lord.' + + [21] i.e., 'sword.' + + [22] i.e., 'hollow shields.' _Cellod_ is found only here and + in Finnsburg, 29. + + [23] i.e., 'courage.' + + + + +THE DREAM OF THE ROOD. + + +Lo! choicest of dreams I will relate, +What dream I dreamt in middle of night +When mortal men reposed in rest. +Methought I saw a wondrous wood +Tower aloft with light bewound, 5 +Brightest of trees; that beacon was all +Begirt with gold; jewels were standing +Four[1] at surface of earth, likewise were there five +Above on the shoulder-brace. All angels of God beheld it, +Fair through future ages; 'twas no criminal's cross indeed, 10 +But holy spirits beheld it there, +Men upon earth, all this glorious creation. +Strange was that victor-tree, and stained with sins was I, +With foulness defiled. I saw the glorious tree +With vesture[2] adorned winsomely shine, 15 +Begirt with gold; bright gems had there +Worthily decked the tree of the Lord.[3] +Yet through that gold I might perceive +Old strife of the wretched, that first it gave +Blood on the stronger [right] side. With sorrows was I oppressed, 20 +Afraid for that fair sight; I saw the ready beacon +Change in vesture and hue; at times with moisture covered, +Soiled with course of blood; at times with treasure adorned. +Yet lying there a longer while, +Beheld I sad the Saviour's tree 25 +Until I heard that words it uttered; +The best of woods gan speak these words: +"'Twas long ago (I remember it still) +That I was hewn at end of a grove, +Stripped from off my stem; strong foes laid hold of me there, 30 +Wrought for themselves a show, bade felons raise me up; +Men bore me on their shoulders, till on a mount they set me; +Fiends many fixed me there. Then saw I mankind's Lord +Hasten with mickle might, for He would sty[4] upon me. +There durst I not 'gainst word of the Lord 35 +Bow down or break, when saw I tremble +The surface of earth; I might then all +My foes have felled, yet fast I stood. +The Hero young begirt[5] Himself, Almighty God was He, +Strong and stern of mind; He stied on the gallows high, 40 +Bold in sight of many, for man He would redeem. +I shook when the Hero clasped me, yet durst not bow to earth, +Fall to surface of earth, but firm I must there stand. +A rood was I upreared; I raised the mighty King, +The Lord of Heaven; I durst not bend me. 45 +They drove their dark nails through me; the wounds are seen upon me, +The open gashes of guile; I durst harm none[6] of them. +They mocked us both together; all moistened with blood was I, +Shed from side of the man, when forth He sent His spirit. +Many have I on that mount endured 50 +Of cruel fates; I saw the Lord of Hosts +Strongly outstretched; darkness had then +Covered with clouds the corse of the Lord, +The brilliant brightness; the shadow continued,[7] +Wan 'neath the welkin. There wept all creation, 55 +Bewailed the King's death; Christ was on the cross. +Yet hastening thither they came from afar +To the Son of the King[8]: that all I beheld. +Sorely with sorrows was I oppressed; yet I bowed 'neath the hands of men, +Lowly with mickle might. Took they there Almighty God, 60 +Him raised from the heavy torture; the battle-warriors left me +To stand bedrenched with blood; all wounded with darts was I. +There laid they the weary of limb, at head of His corse they stood, +Beheld the Lord of Heaven, and He rested Him there awhile, +Worn from the mickle war. Began they an earth-house to work, 65 +Men in the murderers'[9] sight, carved it of brightest stone, +Placed therein victories' Lord. Began sad songs to sing +The wretched at eventide; then would they back return +Mourning from the mighty prince; all lonely[10] rested He there. +Yet weeping[11] we then a longer while 70 +Stood at our station: the [voice[12]] arose +Of battle-warriors; the corse grew cold, +Fair house of life. Then one gan fell +Us[13] all to earth; 'twas a fearful fate! +One buried us in deep pit, yet of me the thanes of the Lord, 75 +His friends, heard tell; [from earth they raised me],[14] +And me begirt with gold and silver. +Now thou mayst hear, my dearest man, +That bale of woes[15] have I endured, +Of sorrows sore. Now the time is come, 80 +That me shall honor both far and wide +Men upon earth, and all this mighty creation +Will pray to this beacon. On me God's Son +Suffered awhile; so glorious now +I tower to Heaven, and I may heal 85 +Each one of those who reverence me; +Of old I became the hardest of pains, +Most loathsome to ledes[16] [nations], the way of life, +Right way, I prepared for mortal men.[17] +Lo! the Lord of Glory honored me then 90 +Above the grove,[18] the guardian of Heaven, +As He His mother, even Mary herself, +Almighty God before all men +Worthily honored above all women. +Now thee I bid, my dearest man, 95 +That thou this sight shalt say to men, +Reveal in words, 'tis the tree of glory, +On which once suffered Almighty God +For the many sins of all mankind, +And also for Adam's misdeeds of old. 100 +Death tasted He there; yet the Lord arose +With His mickle might for help to men. +Then stied He to Heaven; again shall come +Upon this mid-earth to seek mankind +At the day of doom the Lord Himself, 105 +Almighty God, and His angels with Him; +Then He will judge, who hath right of doom, +Each one of men as here before +In this vain life he hath deserved. +No one may there be free from fear 110 +In view of the word that the Judge will speak. +He will ask 'fore the crowd, where is the man +Who for name of the Lord would bitter death +Be willing to taste, as He did on the tree. +But then they will fear, and few will bethink them 115 +What they to Christ may venture to say. +Then need there no one be filled with fear[19] +Who bears in his breast the best of beacons; +But through the rood a kingdom shall seek +From earthly way each single soul 120 +That with the Lord thinketh to dwell." +Then I prayed to the tree with joyous heart, +With mickle might, when I was alone +With small attendance[20]; the thought of my mind +For the journey was ready; I've lived through many 125 +Hours of longing. Now 'tis hope of my life +That the victory-tree I am able to seek, +Oftener than all men I alone may +Honor it well; my will to that +Is mickle in mind, and my plea for protection 130 +To the rood is directed. I've not many mighty +Of friends on earth; but hence went they forth +From joys of the world, sought glory's King; +Now live they in Heaven with the Father on high, +In glory dwell, and I hope for myself 135 +On every day when the rood of the Lord, +Which here on earth before I viewed, +In this vain life may fetch me away +And bring me then, where bliss is mickle, +Joy in the Heavens, where the folk of the Lord 140 +Is set at the feast, where bliss is eternal; +And may He then set me where I may hereafter +In glory dwell, and well with the saints +Of joy partake. May the Lord be my friend, +Who here on earth suffered before 145 +On the gallows-tree for the sins of man! +He us redeemed, and gave to us life, +A heavenly home. Hope was renewed, +With blessing and bliss, for the sufferers of burning. +The Son was victorious on that fateful journey, 150 +Mighty and happy,[21] when He came with a many,[22] +With a band of spirits to the kingdom of God, +The Ruler Almighty, for joy to the angels +And to all the saints, who in Heaven before +In glory dwelt, when their Ruler came, 155 +Almighty God, where was His home. + + [1] _Feowere_, B.'s emendation for MS. _fægere_, 'fair.' + + [2] Silken cords, or tassels, W.; sailyards, ropes, in Hall + and Sweet. + + [3] _Wealdendes_, S.'s emendation for MS. _wealdes_, 'wood'; + so Kl. + + [4] Sty, 'mount,' common in Middle English. + + [5] Here and below W. gives the corresponding verses from the + Ruthwell Cross. They will also be found in Stopford + Brooke's "Early English Literature," p. 337, q.v. + + [6] Gr. changes MS. _nænigum_ to _ænigum_ and others follow; + W. as MS. + + [7] _Forð-eode_, not _for-ðeode_, 'overcame,' as Sw. W.'s note + is an oversight. + + [8] MS. _to þam æðelinge_. Sw. follows Ruthwell Cross, _æðele + to anum_. + + [9] _Banan_ must be taken as gen. pl.; B. reads _banana_; Sw. + thinks it "a mistake for some other [word], possibly + _beorg_," and takes _banan_ as gen. sing. referring to the + cross, though he adds, "this is very improbable." Truly so, + as the cross is speaking. + + [10] _Maete werode_, lit., 'with a small band,' but it means + 'by himself.' + + [11] _Greotende_ is Gr.'s emendation for MS. _reotende_; B. + _hreotende_; K. _geotende_; Sw. as Gr. + + [12] _Stefn_ is Kl.'s emendation to fill _lacuna_. W. prefers + it, but does not think it convincing. + + [13] _Us_ here must refer to the _three_ crosses, that of + Christ and those of the two thieves. + + [14] This half-line is Gr.'s emendation to fill _lacuna_ in + MS. Sw. and W. leave it blank. + + [15] Or, 'of the wicked,' 'of criminals.' + + [16] I have used this Middle English word for sake of the + alliteration. + + [17] Sw.'s text ends here. It was translated a few years ago + in _Poet-Lore_ as if it were the whole poem. + + [18] MS. _holmwudu_; K. _holtwudu_, and so Gr. with (?). + + [19] MS. _unforht_, but Gr.'s _anforht_ suits the sense + better. + + [20] i.e., 'by myself.' See on 69. + + [21] Lit., 'speedy,' 'successful.' + + [22] A company, a crowd; common in Middle English. + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Elene; Judith; Athelstan, or the Fight +at Brunanburh; Byrhtnoth, or the Fight at Maldon; and the Dream of the Rood, by Anonymous + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK ELENE AND OTHERS *** + +***** This file should be named 15879-8.txt or 15879-8.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + https://www.gutenberg.org/1/5/8/7/15879/ + +Produced by David Starner, Annika Feilbach and the Online +Distributed Proofreading Team. (www.pgdp.net) + + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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Garnett. + </title> + <style type="text/css"> +/*<![CDATA[ XML blockout */ +<!-- + p { margin-top: .75em; + margin-bottom: .75em; + } + h1,h2,h3,h4,h5,h6 { + text-align: center; /* all headings centered */ + clear: both; + } + hr { width: 33%; + margin-top: 2em; + margin-bottom: 2em; + margin-left: auto; + margin-right: auto; + clear: both; + } + + img { border: 0; } + + .tocitem {margin: 1em 5% 1em 5%;} + + body{margin-left: 10%; + margin-right: 10%; + } + + .linenum {position: absolute; top: auto; right: 20%;} /* poetry number */ + + .centre {text-align: center;} + .sc {font-variant: small-caps;} + + .footnote + {margin-left: 10%; + margin-right: 10%; + margin-top: 1em; + margin-bottom: 1em; + font-size: 1em;} + + .fnanchor {font-size: smaller;} + + .poem {margin-left:10%; margin-right:10%; text-align: left;} + .poem br {display: none;} + .poem .stanza {margin: 1em 0em 1em 0em;} + .poem span {display: block; margin: 0; padding-left: 3em; text-indent: -3em;} + + // --> + /* XML end ]]>*/ + </style> + </head> +<body> + + +<pre> + +The Project Gutenberg EBook of Elene; Judith; Athelstan, or the Fight at +Brunanburh; Byrhtnoth, or the Fight at Maldon; and the Dream of the Rood, by Anonymous + +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with +almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: Elene; Judith; Athelstan, or the Fight at Brunanburh; Byrhtnoth, or the Fight at Maldon; and the Dream of the Rood + Anglo-Saxon Poems + +Author: Anonymous + +Translator: James M. Garnett + +Release Date: May 23, 2005 [EBook #15879] + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1 + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK ELENE AND OTHERS *** + + + + +Produced by David Starner, Annika Feilbach and the Online +Distributed Proofreading Team. (www.pgdp.net) + + + + + + +</pre> + + + + +<h1>ELENE;</h1> + +<h1>JUDITH;</h1> + +<h1>ATHELSTAN, OR THE FIGHT AT BRUNANBURH;</h1> + +<h1>BYRHTNOTH, OR THE FIGHT AT MALDON;</h1> + +<h3>AND</h3> + +<h1>THE DREAM OF THE ROOD:</h1> + +<div class="centre"> +<img src="images/title.jpg" +alt="Anglo-Saxon Poems." +title="Anglo-Saxon Poems." /> +</div> + +<h3>TRANSLATED BY</h3> + +<h2>JAMES M. GARNETT, M.A., LL.D.,</h2> + +<div class="centre"> +<p> +<span class="sc">Formerly Professor of the English Language and Literature +in the University of Virginia; Translator of "Béowulf."</span></p> +</div> + +<h4><i>THIRD EDITION.</i></h4> + +<div class="centre"> +<p>BOSTON, U.S.A.:</p> + +<p>GINN & COMPANY, PUBLISHERS.</p> + +<p>The Athenæum Press.</p> + +<p>1911.</p> + +<hr /> + + +<p> +Entered, according to Act of Congress, in the year 1889, by<br /> +JAMES M. GARNETT,<br /> +In the Office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington. +</p> + +<p> +<span class="sc">Copyright, 1900, by</span><br /> +JAMES M. GARNETT. +</p> + +<p> +<span class="sc">Copyright, 1911, by</span><br /> +JAMES M. GARNETT. +</p> + +<p>ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.</p> +</div> + +<hr /> + +<div class="centre"> +<p> +TO PROFESSOR FRANCIS A. MARCH<br /> +CORYPHÆUS OF OLD ENGLISH STUDIES IN AMERICA<br /> +WITH SENTIMENTS OF THE HIGHEST REGARD +</p> +</div> + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> + + +<h2><a name="contents" id="contents">CONTENTS.</a></h2> + + +<div style="margin-left: 15%; margin-right: 15%"> +<p> +<span class="sc"><a href="#preface">Preface</a></span><br /> +<span class="sc"><a href="#introduction">Introduction</a></span><br /> +</p> + +<hr /> + +<p><span class="sc"><a href="#part1">Elene.</a></span></p> + + +<p> +<a href="#part1I">I.</a> Constantine sees the vision of the rood.<br /> +<a href="#part1II">II.</a> Constantine is victorious, the sign is explained, and he is baptized.<br /> +<a href="#part1III">III.</a> Helena sets out on her journey in search of the cross, and arrives at Jerusalem.<br /> +<a href="#part1IV">IV.</a> Helena summons an assembly of the Jews learned in the law, and addresses them.<br /> +<a href="#part1V">V.</a> The Jews consult apart, and Judas states the object of the Empress.<br /> +<a href="#part1VI">VI.</a> Judas gives the Jews the information derived from his father and grandfather.<br /> +<a href="#part1VII">VII.</a> The Jews at first refuse to act, but finally deliver up Judas to the Empress.<br /> +<a href="#part1VIII">VIII.</a> Judas stubbornly denies all knowledge of the matter, but after imprisonment without +food consents to speak.<br /> +<a href="#part1IX">IX.</a> They proceed to Calvary, and Judas offers a prayer for guidance.<br /> +<a href="#part1X">X.</a> A smoke arises, Judas digs and finds three crosses. Test of the true cross.<br /> +<a href="#part1XI">XI.</a> The fiend laments that he is overcome. Judas replies to him.<br /> +<a href="#part1XII">XII.</a> Helena announces the discovery to Constantine, who orders a church to be built on the +spot. Judas is baptized.<br /> +<a href="#part1XIII">XIII.</a> Judas is ordained bishop of Jerusalem, and his name is changed to Cyriacus. Helena +longs to recover the nails. Judas prays, digs, and finds them.<br /> +<a href="#part1XIV">XIV.</a> The nails are made into a bit for Constantine's horse. Helena admonishes all to obey +Cyriacus and returns home.<br /> +<a href="#part1XV">XV.</a> The writer reflects on his work, records his name; and refers to the future judgment.<br /> +</p> + +<hr /> + +<p><span class="sc"><a href="#part2">Judith.</a></span></p> + +<p> +<a href="#part2IX">IX.</a> * * * * * * * * * * +Holofernes prepares a banquet.<br /> +<a href="#part2X">X.</a> Holofernes and his guests carouse. Judith is brought to his tent. +Holofernes enters and falls on his bed in a drunken sleep. Judith prays +for help, and cuts off the head of Holofernes.<br /> +<a href="#part2XI">XI.</a> Judith returns with the head of Holofernes to Bethulia. The +people meet her in crowds. She exhorts the warriors to +sally forth at dawn. They fall upon the Assyrians.<br /> +<a href="#part2XII">XII.</a> The Assyrians discover the death of Holofernes and become +panic-stricken. The Hebrews pursue them in flight, plunder +the slain, and bestow upon Judith the arms and treasure of +Holofernes. +</p> + +<hr /> + +<p><span class="sc"><a href="#part3">Athelstan, or The Fight at Brunanburh.</a></span></p> + +<p> +Athelstan and Edmund, with their West-Saxons and Mercians, +slaughter the Scots and Northmen. Constantine and his Scots flee +to their homes in the North. Anlaf and his Northmen flee across +the sea to Dublin. Athelstan and Edmund return home in triumph, +and leave the corpses to the raven, the eagle, and the wolf. +</p> + +<hr /> + +<p><span class="sc"><a href="#part4">Byrhtnoth, or The Fight at Maldon.</a></span></p> + +<p> +* * * * * * * * * * * +Byrhtnoth and his East-Saxons are drawn up on the bank of the +Panta. The wikings' herald demands tribute. Byrhtnoth angrily +offers arms for tribute. Wulfstan defends the bridge. Byrhtnoth +proudly permits the wikings to cross. The fight rages. Byrhtnoth +is wounded. He slays the foe. He is wounded again. He prays to +God to receive his soul, and is hewn down by the heathen men. +Godric flees on Byrhtnoth's horse. His brothers follow him. +Ælfwine encourages the men to avenge the death of their lord. So +does Offa, who curses Godric. Leofsunu will avenge his lord or +perish. Dunnere also. Others follow their example. Offa is slain +and many warriors. The fight still rages. The aged Byrhtwold +exhorts them to be the braver as they become the fewer. So does +another Godric, not he who fled. * * * * +</p> + +<hr /> + +<p><span class="sc"><a href="#part5">The Dream of the Rood.</a></span></p> + +<p> +In the middle of the night the writer beholds the vision of a +cross decked with gold and jewels, but soiled with blood. +Presently the cross speaks and tells how it was hewn and set up +on a mount. Almighty God ascended it to redeem mankind. It bent +not, but the nails made grievous wounds, and it was moistened +with blood. All creation wept. The corse was placed in a +sepulchre of brightest stone. The crosses were buried, but the +thanes of the Lord raised it begirt with gold and silver, and it +should receive honor from all mankind. The Lord of Glory honored +it, who arose for help to men, and shall come again with His +angels to judge each one of men. Then they will fear and know not +what to say, but no one need fear who bears in his heart the best +of beacons. The writer is ready for his journey, and directs his +prayer to the rood. His friends now dwell in glory, and the rood +of the Lord will bring him there where he may partake of joy with +the saints. The Lord redeemed us, His Son was victorious, and +with a band of spirits entered His heavenly home. +<a name="pageix" id="pageix"></a> +</p> +</div> + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> + + +<h2><a name="preface" id="preface">PREFACE.</a></h2> + + +<p>This translation of the <span class="sc">Elene</span> was made while reading the poem +with a post-graduate student in the session of 1887-88, Zupitza's +second edition being used for the text, which does not differ materially +from that in his third edition (1888). It was completed +before I received a copy of Dr. Weymouth's translation (1888), +from Zupitza's text; but in the revision for publication I have +referred to it, although I cannot always agree with the learned +scholar in his interpretation of certain passages. Grein's text +was, however, used to fill <i>lacunæ</i>, and in the revision the recently +published (1888) Grein-Wülker text was compared in some passages. +The line-for-line form has been employed, as in my translation +of <span class="sc">Béowulf</span>; for it has been approved by high authority, +and is unquestionably more serviceable to the student, even if I +have not been able to attain ideal correctness of rhythm. I plead +guilty in advance to any <i>lapsus</i> in that respect, but I strongly +suspect that I have appreciated the difficulty more highly than +my future critics. The <span class="sc">Elene</span> is more suitable than the <span class="sc">Béowulf</span> +for first reading in Old English poetry on account of its style and +its subject, which make the interpretation considerably easier, +and I concur with Körting, in his <i>Grundriss der Geschichte der +Englischen Litteratur</i> (p. 47, 1887): "Die <span class="sc">Elene</span> eignet sich +sowohl wegen ihres anmutigen Inhaltes, als auch, weil sie in der +trefflichen Ausgabe von Zupitza leicht zugänglich ist, als erste +poetische Lectüre für Anfänger im Angelsächsischen." This statement +is now the stronger for English readers because Zupitza's +text is in course of publication, edited with introduction, notes, +and glossary by Professor Charles W. Kent, of the University of +<a name="pagex" id="pagex"></a> +Tennessee. I have appended a few notes which explain themselves, +and have occasionally inserted words in brackets.</p> + +<p>The translations of the <span class="sc">Judith</span> and the <span class="sc">Byrhtnoth</span> were +made in regular course of reading with undergraduate classes, +the former in 1886, and the latter in 1887, the texts in Sweet's +"Anglo-Saxon Reader" being used, and compared with those in +Grein and in Körner. The text of <span class="sc">Judith</span> is now accessible in +Professor Cook's edition (1888).</p> + +<p>The translation of the <span class="sc">Athelstan</span> has been added from +Körner's text, compared with Grein and Wülker, and in certain +passages with Thorpe and Earle. For fuller literary information +than the Introduction provides, the reader is referred to ten +Brink's "Early English Literature," Kennedy's translation (1883), +and to Morley's "English Writers," Vol. II. (1888).</p> + +<p>JAMES M. GARNETT.</p> + +<p><span class="sc">University of Virginia, Va.,</span><br /> +<i>May</i>, 1889.</p> + + +<h3>PREFACE TO EDITION OF 1900.</h3> + +<p>I have added to this reprint of my "Elene and other Anglo +Saxon Poems" a translation of the <span class="sc">Dream of the Rood</span>, which +has been on hand for several years awaiting a suitable time to see +the light. A brief Introduction to the poem has been prefixed, +which, doubtless, leaves much to be desired, but it is all that +the translator now has time for, and I must refer to the works +mentioned for fuller information and discussion. With thanks +for past consideration, and the hope that this addition has made +the book more acceptable, I entrust it again to indulgent readers.</p> + +<p>JAMES M. GARNETT.</p> + +<p><span class="sc">Baltimore, Maryland</span>,<br /> +<i>October</i>, 1900. +<a name="pagexi" id="pagexi"></a></p> + + +<h3>PREFACE TO EDITION OF 1911.</h3> + +<p>I have read over carefully these translations with a view to +another reprint, which the publishers find necessary, but I have +not compared them again with the texts used. I have corrected +a few typographical errors of little importance.</p> + +<p>For the bibliography I would refer to Brandl's <i>Sonderausgabe +aus der zweiten Auflage von Paul's Grundriss der germanischen +Philologie</i> (Strassburg, 1908), in which I find noted Holthausen's +edition of the <span class="sc">Elene</span> (Heidelberg, 1905), but I have not seen it.</p> + +<p>I take advantage of this opportunity to say that my translation +of <span class="sc">Béowulf</span>, of which the last reprint was issued in 1910, is not +in <i>prose</i>, as some have misconceived it, but it is in the same +metrical form as the translations in the present volume,—an +accentual metre in rough imitation of the original. I agree +with Professor Gummere and others that this is a better form +for the translation of Old English poetry than plain prose. It +was approved by the late Professor Child nearly <i>thirty</i> years ago, +as noted in the Preface to the second edition of my translation +of BÉOWULF, January, 1885.</p> + +<p>JAMES M. GARNETT.</p> + +<p><span class="sc">Baltimore, Maryland,</span><br /> +<i>February</i>, 1911. +<a name="pagexii" id="pagexii"></a> +<a name="pagexiii" id="pagexiii"></a></p> + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> + + +<h2><a name="introduction" id="introduction">INTRODUCTION.</a></h2> + + +<p>In presenting to the public the following translations of the +Old English (Anglo-Saxon) poems, <span class="sc">Elene, Judith, Athelstan, +Byrhtnoth</span>, and <span class="sc">The Dream of the Rood</span>, it is desirable to +prefix a brief account of them for the information of the general +reader.</p> + +<p>I. The <span class="sc">Elene</span>, or Helena, is a poem on the expedition of the +Empress Helena, mother of Constantine the Great, the first Christian +emperor, to Palestine in search of the true cross, and its successful +issue. The mediæval legend of the Finding of the Cross +is given in the <i>Acta Sanctorum</i> under date of May 4, assigned by +the Church to the commemoration of St. Helena's marvellous discovery. +The Latin work is the Life of St. Quiriacus, or Cyriacus, +Bishop of Jerusalem, that is, the Judas of the poem. It has been +usually thought that the Old English poet used this Life as his +source; but Glöde, in a recent volume of <i>Anglia</i> (IX. 271 ff.), has +given reasons for thinking that the poet used some other Latin +text. He rejects ten Brink's conjecture that the legend of Elene +had come to England in a Greek form. As to the author of the +poem, we know his name, but very little else about him. He has +left us his name, imbedded in runic letters as an acrostic, in the +last canto of the poem, <i>q.v.</i> These letters spell the word CYNEWULF; +but who was Cynewulf? The question is hard to answer, +and has given rise to much discussion, which cannot be gone into +here. A good summary of it will be found in Wülker's <i>Grundriss +zur Geschichte der Angelsächsischen Litteratur</i> (p. 147 ff., 1885), an +indispensable work for students of Old English literature. The +<a name="pagexiv" id="pagexiv"></a> +old view, propounded in the infancy of Anglo-Saxon studies, and +held by Kemble, Thorpe, and, doubtfully, Wright, that he was the +Abbot of Peterborough and Bishop of Winchester (992-1008), has +been abandoned by all scholars, so far as I know, except Professor +Earle of Oxford (see his "Anglo-Saxon Literature," p. 228). The +later view of Leo, Dietrich, Grein and Rieger, our chief authorities, +that he was a Northumbrian, and of Dietrich and Grein, that he +was Bishop of Lindisfarne (737-780), has more to be said for it. +Sweet and ten Brink also hold that he was a Northumbrian of the +eighth century, but not the Bishop of Lindisfarne, while Wülker +regards him as a West-Saxon. Professor Henry Morley, in the +current edition of his "English Writers," has devoted a chapter +(Vol. II. Chap. IX., 1888) to Cynewulf, and virtually concludes +that we know nothing about him except that he was a poet and +probably lived in the eighth century. We shall not go far wrong +in regarding him as a Northumbrian poet of the eighth century, +possibly the Bishop of Lindisfarne, even though his works remain +to us only in the West-Saxon dialect. As in the <span class="sc">Elene</span>, so in the +<span class="sc">Christ</span> and the <span class="sc">Juliana</span>, Cynewulf has left us his name, hence all +agree in ascribing to him these poems at least. To these some of +the <span class="sc">Riddles</span>, if not all, are usually added, but this is now contested. +Other poems, as the <span class="sc">Guthlac, Phœnix, Christ's Descent +into Hell, Andreas, Dream of the Rood</span>, and several +other shorter poems, have been ascribed to him with more or less +probability, and very recently Sarrazin (in <i>Anglia</i>, IX. 515 ff.) +would credit him with the authorship of even the <span class="sc">Béowulf</span>(!). +We might as well assign to him, as has been suggested, all the +poems in the two great manuscripts, the Exeter Book and the Vercelli +Book, and be done with it. It is desirable that his authorship +of the <span class="sc">Dream of the Rood</span>, which ten Brink and Sweet assign to +him, but Wülker rejects, should be proved or disproved; for with +this is connected the question of his Northumbrian origin, and +<a name="pagexv" id="pagexv"></a> +some lines from this poem have been inscribed in the Northumbrian +dialect on the Ruthwell Cross in Dumfriesshire.</p> + +<p>However it may be, a poet named Cynewulf wrote the <span class="sc">Elene</span>, +and thereby left us one of the finest Old English poems that time +has preserved, on a subject that was of great interest to Christian +Europe. A collection of "Legends of the Holy Rood" has been +issued by the Early English Text Society (ed. Morris, 1871), from +the Anglo-Saxon period to Caxton's translation of the <i>Legenda +Aurea</i>; but they are arranged without system, and no study has +been made of the date and relation of the several forms of the +story. If Cynewulf made use of the Latin Life of Cyriacus in the +<i>Acta Sanctorum</i>, he expanded his source considerably and showed +great skill and originality in his treatment of the subject, as may +be seen by comparing the translation with the Latin text in Zupitza's +third edition of the <span class="sc">Elene</span> (1888), or in Professor Kent's +forthcoming American edition, after Zupitza. The Old English +text was discovered by a German scholar, Dr. F. Blume, at Vercelli, +Italy, in 1822, and the manuscript has since become well +known as the Vercelli Book (cf. Wülker's <i>Grundriss</i>, p. 237 ff.). +A reasonable conjecture as to how this MS. reached Vercelli may +be found in Professor Cook's pamphlet, "Cardinal Guala and the +Vercelli Book." A Bibliography of the <span class="sc">Elene</span> will be found in +Wülker, Zupitza, and Kent. English translations have been made +by Kemble, in his edition of the Codex Vercellensis (1856), and +very recently by Dr. R.F. Weymouth, Acton, England, after Zupitza's +text (privately printed, 1888). A German translation will +be found in Grein's <i>Dichtungen der Angelsachsen</i> (II. 104 ff., 1859), +and of lines 1-275 in Körner's <i>Einleitung in das Studium des Angelsächsischen</i> +(p. 147 ff., 1880). A good summary of the poem is +given in Earle's "Anglo-Saxon Literature" (p. 234 ff., 1884), and +a briefer one in Morley's "English Writers" (II. 196 ff.).</p> + +<p>The <span class="sc">Elene</span> is conceded to be Cynewulf's best poem, and ten +<a name="pagexvi" id="pagexvi"></a> +Brink remarks of the <span class="sc">Andreas</span> and the <span class="sc">Elene</span>: "In these Cynewulf +appears, perhaps, at the summit of his art" (p. 58, Kennedy's +translation). The last canto is a personal epilogue, of a sad and +reflective character, evidently appended after the poem proper was +concluded. This may be the last work of the poet, and there is +good reason for ten Brink's view (p. 59) that "not until the writing +of the <span class="sc">Elene</span> had Cynewulf entirely fulfilled the task he had +set himself in consequence of his vision of the cross. Hence he +recalls, at the close of the poem, the greatest moment of his life, +and praises the divine grace that gave him deeper knowledge, and +revealed to him the art of song."</p> + +<p>II. The <span class="sc">Judith</span> is a fragment, but a very torso of Hercules. +The first nine cantos, nearly three-fourths of the poem, are irretrievably +lost, so that we have left but the last three cantos with a +few lines of the ninth. The story is from the apocryphal book of +Judith, and the part remaining corresponds to chapters XII. 10 to +XVI. 1, but the poet has failed to translate the grand thanksgiving +of Judith in the sixteenth chapter. The story of Judith and +Holofernes is too well known to need narration. The poet, doubtless, +followed the Latin Vulgate, as we have no reason to think +that a knowledge of Greek was a common possession among Old +English poets; but, as Professor Cook says, "the order of events is +not that of the original narrative. Many transpositions have been +made in the interest of condensation and for the purpose of enhancing +the dramatic liveliness of the story."</p> + +<p>The Old English text is found in the same manuscript with the +<span class="sc">Béowulf</span> (Cotton, Vitellius, A, xv.), and, to my mind, this poem +reminds the reader more of the vigor and fire of <span class="sc">Béowulf</span> than +does any other Old English poem; but its author is unknown. It +has been assigned by some scholars to the tenth century, which is +rather late for it; but Professor Cook has given reasons for thinking +that it may have been written in the second half of the ninth century +<a name="pagexvii" id="pagexvii"></a> +in honor of Judith, the step-mother of King Alfred. It was +first printed as prose by Thwaites at the close of his "Heptateuch, +Book of Job, and Gospel of Nicodemus" (1698), and has been often +reprinted, its shortness and excellence making it a popular piece +for inclusion in Anglo-Saxon Readers. A most complete edition +has been recently (1888) issued by Professor Albert S. Cook, with +an excellent introduction, a translation, and a glossary. A Bibliography +is given by Professor Cook (pp. 71-73), and by Wülker +(<i>Grundriss</i>, p. 140 ff.). To the translations therein enumerated +may be added the one in Morley's "English Writers" (II. 180 ff.). +Professor Cook has also given (pp. lxix-lxxii) the testimonies of +scholars to the worth of this poem. To these the attention of the +reader is especially called. The <span class="sc">Judith</span> has been treated by both +ten Brink and Wülker as belonging to the Caedmon circle, but the +former well says (p. 47): "This fragment produces an impression +more like that of the national epos than is the case with any other +religious poetry of that epoch;" and Sweet (Reader, p. 157) regards +it as belonging "to the culminating point of the Old Northumbrian +literature, combining as it does the highest dramatic and constructive +power with the utmost brilliance of language and metre."</p> + +<p>III. The <span class="sc">Athelstan</span>, or Fight at Brunanburh, is found in four +manuscripts of the "Anglo-Saxon Chronicle" and in Wheloc's edition +(1643), printed from a MS. that was burnt in the unfortunate fire +among the Cottonian manuscripts (1731). It is entered under the +year 937 in all but one MS., where it occurs under 938. The poem +gives a brief, but graphic, description of the fight between King +Athelstan and his brother Edmund on the one side, and Constantine +and his Scots aided by Anlaf and his Danes, or Northmen, on +the other, in which fight the Saxons were completely victorious. +The poem will be found in all editions of the "Anglo-Saxon Chronicle" +from Wheloc to Earle (1865), and has been repeatedly reprinted, +its brevity causing it to be often included as a specimen +<a name="pagexviii" id="pagexviii"></a> +of Old English, but it is omitted in Sweet's Reader. A Bibliography +will be found in Wülker's <i>Grundriss</i> (p. 339 ff.). To the +English translations there mentioned,—which include a poetical +one by Lord Tennyson, after a prose translation by his son in the +Contemporary Review for November, 1876,—may be added the +prose translation by Kennedy in ten Brink (p. 91) and the rhythmical +one by Professor Morley in his "English Writers" (II. 316-17). +ten Brink thinks that the poem was not written by an eye-witness, +and says (p. 92): "The poem lacks the epic perception +and direct power of the folk-song as well as invention. The +patriotic enthusiasm, however, upon which it is borne, the lyrical +strain which pervades it, yield their true effect. The rich resources +derived from the national epos are here happily utilised, and the +pure versification and brilliant style of the whole stir our admiration." +It well serves to diversify and enliven the usually dry +annals of the "Anglo-Saxon Chronicle," and cannot be spared in +the great dearth of poetry of this period.</p> + +<p>IV. The <span class="sc">Byrhtnoth</span>, or Fight at Maldon, relates in vigorous +verse the contest between the Saxons, led by the Ealdorman Byrhtnoth, +and the Danes at the river Panta, near Maldon in Essex, in +which the Danes were victorious and Byrhtnoth was slain. The +incident is mentioned in four manuscripts of the "Anglo-Saxon +Chronicle" under the year 991, but one gives it under 993. The +MS. in which the poem was contained was unfortunately burnt +in the great fire above-mentioned (1731); but Thomas Hearne, the +antiquary, had fortunately printed it, as prose, in his edition, of +the Chronicle of John of Glastonbury (1726); hence this is now +our sole authority for the text, which is defective at both the beginning +and the end. The poem has been highly esteemed by +scholars, and is a very valuable relic of late tenth century literature. +It has been often reprinted, and translated several times in +whole or in part. Grein does not translate either the <span class="sc">Athelstan</span> +<a name="pagexix" id="pagexix"></a> +or the <span class="sc">Byrhtnoth</span>. Körner translates it in full, and so does +Zernial in his Program "Das Lied von Byrhtnoth's Fall" (1882). +This monograph contains the fullest study of the poem that has +been made. It is translated into English, with some omissions, +by Kennedy in ten Brink (pp. 93-96); it is barely mentioned by +Earle (p. 147), and a summary of it is given by Morley in "English +Writers" (II. 319-320). A Bibliography will be found in +Wülker's <i>Grundriss</i> (pp. 344-5). An edition of both <span class="sc">Athelstan</span> +and <span class="sc">Byrhtnoth</span> has been long announced in the "Library of +Anglo-Saxon Poetry," but it has not yet appeared. +<a name="FNanchor_1a_1" id="FNanchor_1a_1"></a><a href="#Footnote_1a_1" class="fnanchor">[1]</a> +Sweet says of the <span class="sc">Byrhtnoth</span> (Reader, p. 138): "Although the poem does +not show the high technical finish of the older works, it is full of +dramatic power and warm feeling"; and ten Brink, with more +enthusiasm, calls it (p. 96) "one of the pearls of Old English +poetry, full, as it is, of dramatic life, and fidelity of an eye-witness. +Its deep feeling throbs in the clear and powerful portrayal." He +recognizes, however, "the tokens of metrical decline, of the dissolution +of ancient art-forms."</p> + +<p>V. The <span class="sc">Dream of the Rood</span> is found in the Vercelli manuscript. +Wülker's <i>Grundriss</i> gives the literature of the subject to +the time of its publication (1885). Soon afterwards Morley's +"English Writers," Vol. II., appeared (1888), in which an English +translation is given (pp. 237-241); also Stopford Brooke, in his +"History of Early English Literature" (1892), has given an account +of the poem, with partial translation and epitome (pp. 436-443). +(See also p. 337 and pp. 384-386 for further notice.) The poem +is very briefly mentioned by Trautmann in his monograph on +Cynewulf (1898, p. 40). There are some very interesting questions +connected with the poem which cannot be discussed here. Was +it by Cynewulf? On the affirmative side we find Dietrich, Rieger, +Grein, ten Brink, D'Ham, and Sweet. On the negative, Wülker, +Ebert, Trautmann, Stephens, Morley, Brooke, and others. Pacius, +<a name="pagexx" id="pagexx"></a> +who edited the text, with a German translation, in 1873, thinks +that we know nothing about the poet. Brooke has propounded a +theory, previously adumbrated by the editors of the <i>Corpus Poeticum +Boreale</i>, Vigfusson and Powell, that an older poem, possibly +of Cædmonian origin, as shown by the long six-accent lines, has +been worked over by Cynewulf, with additions, and that it is "his +last work" (p. 440). Certain lines of the poem, in the Northumbrian +dialect, are found on the Ruthwell Cross, which fact complicates +the question of origin. These are compared by Brooke +(p. 337). The other upholders of the Cynewulfian authorship think +that this Dream, occurring in the early part of Cynewulf's religious +life, led to the longer and more highly finished poem, the <span class="sc">Elene</span>, +written near the close of his life. The questions of the relationship +of the poem to the Ruthwell Cross and to the <span class="sc">Elene</span> deserve +further discussion. With these is connected the question of date, +and the poem has been placed all the way from 700 to 800 A.D., +even a little before and a little after, possibly 675 to 825 A.D., so +as yet there is no common agreement. The similarity of thought +in the personal epilogue (II. 122 ff.) to the epilogue of the <span class="sc">Elene</span> +(II. 1237 ff.) is striking, and they may be compared by the curious +reader. The translation is made from the Grein-Wülker text +(Vol. II., pp. 116-125), with emendations from others, as seen +in the notes. All can agree with Kemble (<i>Codex Vercellensis</i>, Part +II., p. ix) that "it is in some respects the most striking of all the +Anglo-Saxon remains, inasmuch as a departure from the mere +conventional style of such compositions is very perceptible in it. +It contains some passages of real poetical beauty, and a good deal +of fancy." Brooke says (<i>op. cit.</i>, p. 443): "This is the last of +the important poems of the eighth century. It is good, but not +very good. The older part, if my conjecture be right, is the +best, and its reworking by Cynewulf has so broken it up that its +dignity is much damaged. The shaping is rude, but the imagination +<a name="pagexxi" id="pagexxi"></a> +has indeed shaped it." ten Brink says (p. 53): "Cynewulf +himself has immortalized this vision in a poem, giving utterance +to an irrepressible emotion, but still exhibiting the delicate lines +of a beautifully designed composition." The other Germans are +usually so taken up with technical and mechanical questions that +they leave no room for æsthetic considerations. Whether Cynewulf +wrote the poem or not,—and the probabilities favor his +authorship, though we may not hesitate to say with Morley, "I +don't know,"—it is certainly the work of a gifted Christian poet, +who reverences the cross as the means of the redemption of +mankind.</p> + +<p>This brief Introduction will, it is hoped, be sufficient to interest +the reader in the accompanying translations of some of the finest +pieces of Old English poetry that remain to us from the eighth, +ninth, and tenth centuries. The earlier period was the golden +age of Old English poetry in the Northumbrian dialect, which +poetry, there is good reason to think, was copied into the West-Saxon +dialect, and it now remains to us only in that form; for, +when the Northmen harried Northumbria, destroyed its monasteries, +massacred its inhabitants, and settled in its homes, manuscripts +perished, and the light of learning in Western Europe was +extinguished. It is sufficient to recall King Alfred's oft-quoted +lament, in the Preface to his translation of Pope Gregory's +"Pastoral Care," to realize the position held by Northumbria +in respect to culture, and when learning was restored in Wessex +by the efforts of the king himself, and poetry again revived, it +shone but by a reflected light. Still we should treasure all that +remains, and the Old English language should be at least as well +known as Latin is now, and should occupy as prominent a position +in education and general culture. Until that millennial period +arrives, translations of Old English poems may not be without +service.<a name="pagexxii" id="pagexxii"></a></p> + +<div class="footnote"> +<p> +<a name="Footnote_1a_1" id="Footnote_1a_1"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_1a_1">[1]</a> Crow's "Maldon and Brunnanburh," 1897.</p> +</div> + + +<h4>ABBREVIATIONS IN NOTES.</h4> + +<ul style="margin-left: 20%"> +<li>B. = Bouterwek;</li> +<li>C. = Cook;</li> +<li>Gm. = Grimm;</li> +<li>Gn. = Grein;</li> +<li>K. = Kemble;</li> +<li>Kl. = Kluge;</li> +<li>Kr. = Körner;</li> +<li>S. = Sievers;</li> +<li>Sw. = Sweet;</li> +<li>Th. = Thorpe;</li> +<li>W. = Wülker;</li> +<li>Z. = Zupitza;</li> +<li>Zl. = Zernial. +<a name="page1" id="page1"></a></li> +</ul> + +<h2><a name="part1" id="part1">CYNEWULF'S ELENE.</a></h2> + + +<h3><a name="part1I" id="part1I">I.</a></h3> + +<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> +<span>Whén had elapsed in course of years<br /></span> +<span>Two hundred and three, reckoned by number,<br /></span> +<span>And thirty alsó, in measure of time,<br /></span> +<span>Of winters for th' world, since mighty God<br /></span> +<span>Became incarnate, of kings the Glory,</span><span class="linenum">5</span><br /> +<span>Upón mid-earth in human form,<br /></span> +<span>Light of the righteous; then sixth was the year<br /></span> +<span>Of Constantine's imperial sway,<br /></span> +<span>Since hé o'er the realm of the Roman people,<br /></span> +<span>The battle-prince, as ruler was raised.</span><span class="linenum">10</span><br /> +<span>The ward of his folk, skilful with shield,<br /></span> +<span>Was gracious to earls. Strong grew the ætheling's<a name="FNanchor_1_1" id="FNanchor_1_1"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_1_1" class="fnanchor">[1]</a><br /></span> +<span>Might 'neath the heavens. Hé was true king,<br /></span> +<span>War-keeper of men. God him strengthened<br /></span> +<span>With honor and might, that to many became he</span><span class="linenum">15</span><br /> +<span>Throughoút this earth to men a joy,<br /></span> +<span>To nations a vengeance, when weapon he raised<br /></span> +<span>Against his foes. Him battle was offered,<br /></span> +<span>Tumult of war. A host was assembled,<br /></span> +<span>Folk of the Huns and fame-loving Goths;</span><span class="linenum">20</span><br /> +<span>War-brave they went, the Franks and the Hugs.<a name="FNanchor_2_2" id="FNanchor_2_2"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_2_2" class="fnanchor">[2]</a><br /></span> +<span>Bold were the men [in battle-byrnies, Gn.],<br /></span> +<span>Ready for war. Bright shone the spears,<br /></span> +<span><a name="page2" id="page2"></a> +The ringéd corselets. With shouts and shields<br /></span> +<span>They hoisted the standards. The heroes were there</span><span class="linenum">25</span><br /> +<span>Plainly assembled, and [host, Gn.] all together.<br /></span> +<span>The multitude marched. A war-song howled<br /></span> +<span>The wolf in the wood, war-secret concealed not;<br /></span> +<span>The dew-feathered eagle uplifted his song<br /></span> +<span>On the trail of his foes. Hastened quickly</span><span class="linenum">30</span><br /> +<span>O'er cities of giants<a name="FNanchor_3_3" id="FNanchor_3_3"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_3_3" class="fnanchor">[3]</a> the greatest of war-hosts<br /></span> +<span>In bands to battle, such as king of the Huns<br /></span> +<span>Of dwellers-around anywhere might,<br /></span> +<span>Of city-warriors, assemble to war.<br /></span> +<span>Went greatest of armies,—the footmen were strengthened</span><span class="linenum">35</span><br /> +<span>With chosen bands,—till in foreign land<br /></span> +<span>The fighters-with-darts upón the Danube's<br /></span> +<span>Bank were encamping, the brave in heart,<br /></span> +<span>'Round the welling of waters, with tumult of host.<br /></span> +<span>The realm of the Romans they wished to oppress,</span><span class="linenum">40</span><br /> +<span>With armies destroy. Thére was Huns' coming<br /></span> +<span>Known to the people. Then bade the Cæsar<br /></span> +<span>Against the foes his comrades in war<br /></span> +<span>'Neath arrow-flight in greatest haste<br /></span> +<span>Gather for fight, form battle-array</span><span class="linenum">45</span><br /> +<span>The heroes 'neath heavens. The Romans were,<br /></span> +<span>Men famed for victory, quickly prepared<br /></span> +<span>With weapons for war, though lesser army<br /></span> +<span>Had théy for the battle than king of the Huns.<a name="FNanchor_4_4" id="FNanchor_4_4"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_4_4" class="fnanchor">[4]</a><br /></span> +<span>They rode 'round the valiant: then rattled the shield,</span><span class="linenum">50</span><br /> +<span>The war-wood clanged: the king with host marched,<br /></span> +<span>With army to battle. Aloft sang the raven,<br /></span> +<span>Dark and corpse-gréedy. The band was in motion.<br /></span> +<span><a name="page3" id="page3"></a> +The horn-bearers blew,<a name="FNanchor_5_5" id="FNanchor_5_5"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_5_5" class="fnanchor">[5]</a> the heralds called,<br /></span> +<span>Steed stamped the earth. The host assembled</span><span class="linenum">55</span><br /> +<span>Quickly for contest. The king was affrighted,<br /></span> +<span>With terror disturbed, after the strangers,<br /></span> +<span>The Huns' and Hreths' hóst +they<a name="FNanchor_6_6" id="FNanchor_6_6"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_6_6" class="fnanchor">[6]</a> observed,<br /></span> +<span>That it<a name="FNanchor_7_7" id="FNanchor_7_7"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_7_7" class="fnanchor">[7]</a> on the Romans' kingdom's border<br /></span> +<span>'Round the bank of the river a band assembled,</span><span class="linenum">60</span><br /> +<span>A countless crowd. Heart-sorrow bore<br /></span> +<span>The Romans' ruler, of realm he hoped not<br /></span> +<span>For want of force; had warriors too few,<br /></span> +<span>Trusty comrades, 'gainst th' overmight<br /></span> +<span>Of the brave for battle. The army encamped,</span><span class="linenum">65</span><br /> +<span>The earls 'round the ætheling nigh to the river<br /></span> +<span>In neighboring plain a night-long time,<br /></span> +<span>After force of their foes they first beheld.<br /></span> +<span>Thén in his sleep was shown to him,<br /></span> +<span>To the Cæsar himself where he slept 'mid his men,</span><span class="linenum">70</span><br /> +<span>By the victory-famed seen, a vision of dream.<br /></span> +<span>Effulgent it seemed him, in form of a man,<br /></span> +<span>White and hue-bright, some one of heroes<br /></span> +<span>More splendid appeared than ere or since<br /></span> +<span>He saw 'neath the heavens. From sleep he awaked</span><span class="linenum">75</span><br /> +<span>With boar-sign bedecked. The messenger quickly,<br /></span> +<span>Bright herald of glory, to him made address<br /></span> +<span>And called him by name (the night-veil vanished):<br /></span> +<span>"To thee, Constantine, bade King of the angels,<br /></span> +<span>Wielder of fates, his favor grant,</span><span class="linenum">80</span><br /> +<span>The Lord of Hosts. Fear not for thyself,<br /></span> +<span>Though thee the strangers threaten with terror,<br /></span> +<span>With battle severe. Look thou to heaven,<br /></span> +<span>To the Lord of glory: there help wilt thou find,<br /></span> +<span>A token of victory." Soon was he ready</span><span class="linenum">85</span><br /> +<span><a name="page4" id="page4"></a> +At hest of the holy, his heart-lock unloosed,<br /></span> +<span>Upwards he looked as the messenger bade him,<br /></span> +<span>Trusty peace-wéaver. He saw bright with gems<br /></span> +<span>Fair rood of glory o'er roof of the clouds<br /></span> +<span>Adorned with gold: the jewels shone,</span><span class="linenum">90</span><br /> +<span>The glittering tree with letters was written<br /></span> +<span>Of brightness and light: "With this beacon thou<br /></span> +<span>On the dangerous journey<a name="FNanchor_8_8" id="FNanchor_8_8"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_8_8" class="fnanchor">[8]</a> wilt the foe overcome,<br /></span> +<span>The loathly host let." The light then departed,<br /></span> +<span>Ascended on high, and the messenger too,</span><span class="linenum">95</span><br /> +<span>To the realm of the pure. The king was the blither<br /></span> +<span>And freer from sorrow, chieftain of men,<br /></span> +<span>In thoughts of his soul, for thát fair sight.<br /></span> +</div></div> + +<h3><a name="part1II" id="part1II">II.</a></h3> + +<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> +<span>Bade then a likeness<a name="FNanchor_9_9" id="FNanchor_9_9"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_9_9" class="fnanchor">[9]</a> defender of æthelings,<br /></span> +<span>Ring-giver of heroes, to that beacon he saw,</span><span class="linenum">100</span><br /> +<span>Leader of armies, that in heaven before<br /></span> +<span>To him had appeared, with greatest haste<br /></span> +<span>[Bade] Constantine [like] the rood of Christ,<br /></span> +<span>The glorious king, a token make.<br /></span> +<span>He bade then at dawn with break of day</span><span class="linenum">105</span><br /> +<span>His warriors rouse and onset of battle,<br /></span> +<span>The standard raise, and that holy tree<br /></span> +<span>Before him carry, 'mid host of foes<br /></span> +<span>God's beacon bear. The trumpets sang<br /></span> +<span>Aloud 'fore the hosts. The raven rejoiced,<a name="FNanchor_10_10" id="FNanchor_10_10"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_10_10" class="fnanchor">[10]</a></span><span class="linenum">110</span><br /> +<span>The dew-feathered eagle beheld the march,<br /></span> +<span>Fight of the fierce cries, the wolf raised his howl,<br /></span> +<span>The wood's frequenter. War-terror arose.<br /></span> +<span><a name="page5" id="page5"></a> +There was shattering of shields and mingling of men,<br /></span> +<span>Heavy handstroke and felling of foes,</span><span class="linenum">115</span><br /> +<span>After in arrow-flight first they had met.<br /></span> +<span>On the fated folk showers of darts,<br /></span> +<span>Spears over shields into hosts of foes,<br /></span> +<span>Sword-fierce foemen battle-adders<br /></span> +<span>With force of fingers forwards impelled.</span><span class="linenum">120</span><br /> +<span>The strong-hearted stepped, pressed onwards at once,<br /></span> +<span>Broke the shield-covers, thrust in their swords,<br /></span> +<span>Battle-brave hastened. Then standard was raised,<br /></span> +<span>Sign 'fore the host, song of victory sung.<br /></span> +<span>The golden helmet, the spear-points glistened</span><span class="linenum">125</span><br /> +<span>On field of battle. The heathen perished,<br /></span> +<span>Peaceless they fell. Forthwith they fled,<br /></span> +<span>The folk of the Huns, when that holy tree<br /></span> +<span>The king of the Romans bade raise on high,<br /></span> +<span>Fierce in the fight. The warriors became</span><span class="linenum">130</span><br /> +<span>Widely dispersed. Some war took away;<br /></span> +<span>Some with labor their lives preserved<br /></span> +<span>Upon that march; some half-alive<br /></span> +<span>Fled to the fastness and life protected<br /></span> +<span>Behind the stone-cliffs, held their abode</span><span class="linenum">135</span><br /> +<span>Around the Danube; some drowning took off<br /></span> +<span>In the stream of the river at the end of their life.<br /></span> +<span>Then wás of the proud ones the force in joy;<br /></span> +<span>They followed the foreigners forth until even<br /></span> +<span>From break of day. The ash-darts flew,</span><span class="linenum">140</span><br /> +<span>Battle-adders. The heap was destroyed,<a name="FNanchor_11_11" id="FNanchor_11_11"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_11_11" class="fnanchor">[11]</a><br /></span> +<span>Shield-band of foes. Very few came<br /></span> +<span>Of the host of the Huns home again thence.<br /></span> +<span>Thén it was plain that victory gave<br /></span> +<span>To Constantine the King Almighty</span><span class="linenum">145</span><br /> +<span><a name="page6" id="page6"></a> +In the work of that day, glorious honor,<br /></span> +<span>Might 'neath the heavens, through the tree of his rood.<br /></span> +<span>Went helmet of hosts home again thence,<br /></span> +<span>In booty rejoicing (the battle was ended),<br /></span> +<span>Honored in war. Came warriors' defence</span><span class="linenum">150</span><br /> +<span>With band of his thanes to deck the strong shield,<a name="FNanchor_12_12" id="FNanchor_12_12"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_12_12" class="fnanchor">[12]</a><br /></span> +<span>War-renowned king, to visit his cities.<br /></span> +<span>Bade warriors' ward the wisest men<br /></span> +<span>Swiftly to synod, who wisdom's craft<br /></span> +<span>Through writings of old had learnt to know,</span><span class="linenum">155</span><br /> +<span>Held in their hearts counsels of heroes.<br /></span> +<span>Then thát gan inquire chief of the folk,<br /></span> +<span>Victory-famed king, throughout the wide crowd,<br /></span> +<span>If any there were, elder or younger,<br /></span> +<span>Who him in truth was able to tell,</span><span class="linenum">160</span><br /> +<span>Make known by speech, what the god were,<br /></span> +<span>The giver of glory,<a name="FNanchor_13_13" id="FNanchor_13_13"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_13_13" class="fnanchor">[13]</a> "whose beacon this was,<br /></span> +<span>That seemed me so sheen, and saved my people,<br /></span> +<span>Brightest of beacons, and gave to me glory,<br /></span> +<span>War-speed against foes, through that beautiful tree."</span><span class="linenum">165</span><br /> +<span>They him any answer at all were unable<br /></span> +<span>To give in reply, nor could they full well<br /></span> +<span>Clearly declare of that victory-sign.<br /></span> +<span>Thén did the wisest speak out in words<br /></span> +<span>Before the armed host, that Heaven-king's</span><span class="linenum">170</span><br /> +<span>Token it was, and of that was no doubt.<br /></span> +<span>When they that heard who in baptism's lore<br /></span> +<span>Instructed had been, light was their mind,<br /></span> +<span>Rejoicing their soul, though of them there were few,<br /></span> +<span>That they 'fore the Cæsar might dare to proclaim</span><span class="linenum">175</span><br /> +<span>The gift of the gospel, how the spirits' Defence,<br /></span> +<span>In form of the Trinity worshipped in glory,<br /></span> +<span><a name="page7" id="page7"></a>Incarnate became, Brightness of kings,—<br /></span> +<span>And how on the cross was God's own Son<br /></span> +<span>Hanged 'fore the hosts with hardest pains;</span><span class="linenum">180</span><br /> +<span>The Son men saved from the bonds of devils,<br /></span> +<span>Sorrowful spirits, and a gift to them gave<br /></span> +<span>Through thát same sign that appeared to him<br /></span> +<span>Before his own eyes the token of victory<br /></span> +<span>'Gainst onset of nations; and how the third day</span><span class="linenum">185</span><br /> +<span>From out of the tomb the Glory of heroes,<br /></span> +<span>From death, arose, the Lord of all<br /></span> +<span>The race of mankind, and to Heaven ascended.<br /></span> +<span>So with cunning of mind in secrets of soul<br /></span> +<span>They said to the victor as they by Sylvester<a name="FNanchor_14_14" id="FNanchor_14_14"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_14_14" class="fnanchor">[14]</a></span><span class="linenum">190</span><br /> +<span>Instructed had been. From him the folk-chíef<br /></span> +<span>Baptism received, and continued to hold it<br /></span> +<span>For the time of his days at the will of the Lord.<br /></span> +</div></div> + + + +<h3><a name="part1III" id="part1III">III.</a></h3> + +<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> +<span>Thén was in bliss the giver of treasure,<br /></span> +<span>The battle-brave king. To him was new joy</span><span class="linenum">195</span><br /> +<span>Inspired in his soul; greatest of comforts<br /></span> +<span>And highest of hopes was heaven's Defence.<br /></span> +<span>Then gan he God's law by day and by night<br /></span> +<span>Through gift of the Spirit with zeal proclaim,<br /></span> +<span>And truly himself devoted he eagerly,</span><span class="linenum">200</span><br /> +<span>Gold-friend of men, to the service of God,<br /></span> +<span>Spear-famed, unfaltering. Then found the ætheling,<br /></span> +<span>Defence of his folk, through learned men,<a name="FNanchor_15_15" id="FNanchor_15_15"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_15_15" class="fnanchor">[15]</a><br /></span> +<span>War-brave, spear-bold, in books of God,<br /></span> +<span>Whére had been hanged with shouts of the host</span><span class="linenum">205</span><br /> +<span>On tree of the rood the Ruler of heaven<br /></span> +<span><a name="page8" id="page8"></a> +Through envy and hate, just ás the old fiend<br /></span> +<span>Misled with his lies, the people deceived,<br /></span> +<span>The race of the Jews, so that God himself<br /></span> +<span>They hanged, Lord of hosts: hence in misery shall they</span><span class="linenum">210</span><br /> +<span>For ever and ever punishment suffer.<br /></span> +<span>Then praise of Christ by the Cæsar was<br /></span> +<span>In the thoughts of his mind<a name="FNanchor_16_16" id="FNanchor_16_16"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_16_16" class="fnanchor">[16]</a> always remembered<br /></span> +<span>For that great tree, and his mother he bade<br /></span> +<span>Gó on a journey with a band of men</span><span class="linenum">215</span><br /> +<span>To [land of] the Jews, earnestly seek<br /></span> +<span>With host of warriors where that tree of glory<br /></span> +<span>Holy 'neath earth hidden might be,<br /></span> +<span>The noble King's rood. Helena would not<br /></span> +<span>On that expedition be slow to start,</span><span class="linenum">220</span><br /> +<span>Nor that joy-giver's command neglect,<br /></span> +<span>Her own [dear] son's, but soon she<a name="FNanchor_17_17" id="FNanchor_17_17"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_17_17" class="fnanchor">[17]</a> was ready<br /></span> +<span>For the wished-for journey, as the helmet of men,<br /></span> +<span>Of mail-clad warriors, her had commanded.<br /></span> +<span>Gan then with speed the crowd of earls</span><span class="linenum">225</span><br /> +<span>Hasten to ship.<a name="FNanchor_18_18" id="FNanchor_18_18"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_18_18" class="fnanchor">[18]</a> The steeds of the sea<br /></span> +<span>'Round the shore of the ocean ready were standing,<br /></span> +<span>Cabled sea-horses, at rest on the water.<br /></span> +<span>Then plainly was known the voyage of the lady,<br /></span> +<span>When the welling of waves she sought with her folk.</span><span class="linenum">230</span><br /> +<span>There many a proud one at Wendel-sea<br /></span> +<span>Stood on the shore. They severally hastened<br /></span> +<span>Over the mark-paths, band after band,<br /></span> +<span>And then they loaded with battle-sarks,<br /></span> +<span>With shields and spears, with mail-clad warriors,</span><span class="linenum">235</span><br /> +<span>With men and women, the steeds of the sea.<br /></span> +<span>Then they let o'er the billows the foamy ones go,<br /></span> +<span>The high wave-rushers. The hull oft received<br /></span> +<span><a name="page9" id="page9"></a> +O'er the mingling of waters the blows of the waves.<br /></span> +<span>The sea resounded. Not since nor ere heard I</span><span class="linenum">240</span><br /> +<span>On water-stream a lady lead,<br /></span> +<span>On ocean-street, a fairer force.<br /></span> +<span>There might he see, who that voyage beheld,<br /></span> +<span>Burst o'er the bath-way the sea-wood, hasten<br /></span> +<span>'Neath swelling sails, the sea-horse play,</span><span class="linenum">245</span><br /> +<span>The wave-floater sail. The warriors were blithe,<br /></span> +<span>Courageous in mind; queen joyed in her journey.<br /></span> +<span>After to haven the ringèd-prowed<br /></span> +<span>O'er the sea-fastness had finished their course<br /></span> +<span>To the land of the Greeks, they let the keels</span><span class="linenum">250</span><br /> +<span>At the shore of the sea beat by the breakers,<br /></span> +<span>The old sea-dwellings at anchor fast,<br /></span> +<span>On the water await the fate of the heroes,<br /></span> +<span>When the warlike queen with her band of men<br /></span> +<span>Over the east-ways should seek them again.</span><span class="linenum">255</span><br /> +<span>There wás on [each] earl easily seen<br /></span> +<span>The braided byrnie and tested sword,<br /></span> +<span>Glittering war-weeds, many a helmet,<br /></span> +<span>Beautiful boar-sign. The spear-warriors were,<br /></span> +<span>Men 'round victor-queen, prepared for the march,</span><span class="linenum">260</span><br /> +<span>Brave war-heroes. They marched with joy<br /></span> +<span>Into land of the Greeks, the Cæsar's heralds,<br /></span> +<span>Battle-warriors with armor protected.<br /></span> +<span>There wás to be seen treasure-gem set<br /></span> +<span>'Mid that army-host, gift of their lord.</span><span class="linenum">265</span><br /> +<span>[Then] wás the blessed Helena mindful,<br /></span> +<span>Bold in her thought, of the prince's will,<br /></span> +<span>Eager in mind, in that shé of the Jews,<br /></span> +<span>O'er the army-fields with tested band<br /></span> +<span>Of warriors-with-shields, the land was seeking,</span><span class="linenum">270</span><br /> +<span>With host of men; so it after befell<br /></span> +<span>In little while that thát force of men,<br /> +<a name="page10" id="page10"></a></span> +<span>War-famed heroes, to Híerusalem<a name="FNanchor_19_19" id="FNanchor_19_19"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_19_19" class="fnanchor">[19]</a><br /></span> +<span>Came to the city the greatest of crowds,<br /></span> +<span>Spear-famed earls, with the noble queen.</span><span class="linenum">275</span><br /> +</div></div> + + +<h3><a name="part1IV" id="part1IV">IV.</a></h3> + +<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> +<span>Bade she then order the dwellers-in-city<br /></span> +<span>Most skilled in lore, those far and wide<br /></span> +<span>Among the Jews, each one of men,<br /></span> +<span>For council-talk in meeting to come,<br /></span> +<span>Whó most deeply the secrets of God</span><span class="linenum">280</span><br /> +<span>By righteous law were able to tell.<br /></span> +<span>Then was assembled from distant ways<br /></span> +<span>No little crowd who Moses' law<br /></span> +<span>Were able to tell. In number there were<br /></span> +<span>Of thousands three of thóse [learned] men</span><span class="linenum">285</span><br /> +<span>Chosen for lore. The lovely woman<br /></span> +<span>The men of the Hebrews with words gan address:<br /></span> +<span>"I thát most surely have learnt to know<br /></span> +<span>Through secret words of prophets [of old]<br /></span> +<span>In the books of God, that in days of yore</span><span class="linenum">290</span><br /> +<span>Ye worthy were of the glorious King,<br /></span> +<span>Dear to the Lord and daring in deed.<br /></span> +<span>Lo! yé that wisdom [very, Gn.] unwisely,<br /></span> +<span>Wrongly, rejected, when him ye condemned<br /></span> +<span>Who you from the curse through might of his glory,</span><span class="linenum">295</span><br /> +<span>From torment of fire, thought to redeem,<br /></span> +<span>From fetters' force. Ye filthily spat<br /></span> +<span>On hís fair face who light of the eyes<br /></span> +<span>From blindness [restored], a remedy brought<br /></span> +<span>To you anew by that noble spittle,</span><span class="linenum">300</span><br /> +<span>And often preserved you fróm the unclean<br /></span> +<span><a name="page11" id="page11"></a> +Spirits of devils. This one to death<br /></span> +<span>Ye gan adjudge, who self from death<br /></span> +<span>Many awakened 'mong host of men<br /></span> +<span>Of your own race to the former life.</span><span class="linenum">305</span><br /> +<span>So blinded in mind ye gan conjoin<br /></span> +<span>Lying with truth, light with darkness,<br /></span> +<span>Hatred with mercy, with evil thoughts<br /></span> +<span>Ye wickedness wove; therefore the curse<br /></span> +<span>You guilty oppresses. The purest Might</span><span class="linenum">310</span><br /> +<span>Ye gan condemn, and have lived in error,<br /></span> +<span>In thoughts benighted, until this day.<br /></span> +<span>Go ye now quickly, with prudence select<br /></span> +<span>Men firm in wisdom, crafty in word,<br /></span> +<span>Who yóur own law, with excellence skilled,</span><span class="linenum">315</span><br /> +<span>In thoughts of their minds most thoroughly have,<br /></span> +<span>Who to me truly are able to say,<br /></span> +<span>Answer to tell for you hencefórth<br /></span> +<span>Of each one of tokens that I from thee seek."<br /></span> +<span>They went then away sorry-in-mind,</span><span class="linenum">320</span><br /> +<span>The law-clever earls, oppressed with fear,<br /></span> +<span>Sad in their grief, earnestly sought<br /></span> +<span>The wisest men in secrets of words,<br /></span> +<span>That they to the queen might answer well<br /></span> +<span>Both of good and of ill, as shé from them sought.</span><span class="linenum">325</span><br /> +<span>Then théy 'mong the host a thousand of men<br /></span> +<span>Found clever in mind whó the old story<br /></span> +<span>Among the Jews most readily knew.<br /></span> +<span>Then they pressed in a crowd where in pomp awaited<br /></span> +<span>On kingly throne the Cæsar's mother,<a name="FNanchor_20_20" id="FNanchor_20_20"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_20_20" class="fnanchor">[20]</a></span><span class="linenum">330</span><br /> +<span>Stately war-queen with gold adorned.<br /></span> +<span>Helena spake and said 'fore the earls:<br /></span> +<a name="page12" id="page12"></a> +<span>"Hear, clever in mind, the holy secret,<br /></span> +<span>Word and wisdom. Lo! yé the prophets'<br /></span> +<span>Teaching received, hów the Life-giver</span><span class="linenum">335</span><br /> +<span>In form of a child incarnate became,<br /></span> +<span>Ruler of might. Of him Moses sang<br /></span> +<span>And spake this [word],<a name="FNanchor_21_21" id="FNanchor_21_21"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_21_21" class="fnanchor">[21]</a> warden of Israel:<br /></span> +<span>'To yóu shall be born a child in secret<br /></span> +<span>Renowned in might, though his mother shall nót</span><span class="linenum">340</span><br /> +<span>Be filled with fruit through love of a man.'<br /></span> +<span>Of him David the king a kingly psalm sang,<br /></span> +<span>The wise old sage, father of Solomon,<br /></span> +<span>And spake this word, prince of warriors:<br /></span> +<span>'The God of creation before me I saw,</span><span class="linenum">345</span><br /> +<span>Lord of victories. He wás in my sight,<br /></span> +<span>Ruler of hosts, upon my right hand,<br /></span> +<span>Guardian of glory. Thence turn I nót<br /></span> +<span>Ever in life my countenance from him.'<a name="FNanchor_22_22" id="FNanchor_22_22"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_22_22" class="fnanchor">[22]</a><br /></span> +<span>So it again of you Isaiah</span><span class="linenum">350</span><br /> +<span>'Fore the people, the prophet, foretold in words,<br /></span> +<span>Thinking profoundly by spirit of the Lord:<br /></span> +<span>'I raised upon high sons young in years,<br /></span> +<span>And children begat, to whom glory I gave,<br /></span> +<span>Heart-comfort holy: but théy me rejected,</span><span class="linenum">355</span><br /> +<span>With enmity hated, forethought possessed not,<br /></span> +<span>Wisdom of mind, and the wretched cattle,<br /></span> +<span>That on each day one drives and strikes,<br /></span> +<span>Their well-doer know, not at áll with revenge<br /></span> +<span>Bear hate to their friends who give them fodder.</span><span class="linenum">360</span><br /> +<span>And the folk of Israel never were willing<br /></span> +<span>Me to acknowledge, though many for them,<br /></span> +<span>In worldly course, of wonders I wrought.'<a name="FNanchor_23_23" id="FNanchor_23_23"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_23_23" class="fnanchor">[23]</a><br /></span> +<a name="page13" id="page13"></a> +</div></div> + +<h3><a name="part1V" id="part1V">V.</a></h3> + +<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> +<span>"Lo! thát we heard through holy books,<br /></span> +<span>That the Lord to you gave blameless glory,</span><span class="linenum">365</span><br /> +<span>The Maker, mights' Speed, to Moses said<br /></span> +<span>How the King of heaven ye should obey,<br /></span> +<span>His teaching perform. Of that ye soon wearied,<br /></span> +<span>And counter to right ye had contended;<br /></span> +<span>Ye shunned the bright Creator of all,</span><span class="linenum">370</span><br /> +<span>The Lord [of Lords],<a name="FNanchor_24_24" id="FNanchor_24_24"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_24_24" class="fnanchor">[24]</a> and followed error<br /></span> +<span>'Gainst right of God. Now quickly go<br /></span> +<span>And find ye still who writings of old<br /></span> +<span>Through craft of wit the best may know,<br /></span> +<span>Your books of law, that answer to me</span><span class="linenum">375</span><br /> +<span>Through prudent mind they may return."<br /></span> +<span>Went then with a crowd depressed in mind<br /></span> +<span>The proud in heart, as thém the queen bade.<br /></span> +<span>Found they five hundred of cunning men,<br /></span> +<span>Chosen comrades, who craft of lore</span><span class="linenum">380</span><br /> +<span>Through memory of mind the most possessed,<br /></span> +<span>Wisdom in spirit. They back to the hall<br /></span> +<span>In little while again were summoned,<br /></span> +<span>Wards of the city. The queen them gan<br /></span> +<span>With words address (she glanced over all):</span><span class="linenum">385</span><br /> +<span>"Often ye silly actions performed,<br /></span> +<span>Accursèd wretches, and writings despised,<br /></span> +<span>Lore of your fathers, ne'er more than now,<br /></span> +<span>When ye of your blindness the Healer rejected,<br /></span> +<span>Ánd ye contended 'gainst truth and right,</span><span class="linenum">390</span><br /> +<span>That in Bethlehem the child of the Ruler,<br /></span> +<span>The only-born King, incarnate was,<br /></span><a name="page14" id="page14"></a> +<span>The Prince of princes. Though the law ye knew,<br /></span> +<span>Words of the prophets, ye wére not then willing,<br /></span> +<span>Workers of sin, the truth to confess."</span><span class="linenum">395</span><br /> +<span>With one mind then they answered her:<br /></span> +<span>"Lo! wé the Hebrew law have learned,<br /></span> +<span>That in days of old our fathers knew,<br /></span> +<span>At the ark of God, nor know we well<br /></span> +<span>Why thou so fiercely, lady, with us</span><span class="linenum">400</span><br /> +<span>Hast angry become. We know not the wrong<br /></span> +<span>That wé have done amid this nation,<br /></span> +<span>Chiefest of crimes<a name="FNanchor_25_25" id="FNanchor_25_25"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_25_25" class="fnanchor">[25]</a> against thee ever."<br /></span> +<span>Helena said and 'fore the earls spake<br /></span> +<span>Without concealment; the lady proclaimed</span><span class="linenum">405</span><br /> +<span>Aloud 'fore the hosts: "Now go ye quickly,<br /></span> +<span>Seek out apart who wisdom with you<br /></span> +<span>Might and mindcraft the most may have,<br /></span> +<span>That each of the things they boldly may tell me,<br /></span> +<span>Without delay, that I from them seek."</span><span class="linenum">410</span><br /> +<span>Went they then from the council as the mighty queen,<br /></span> +<span>Bold in the palace, them had commanded,<br /></span> +<span>Sorry-in-mind eagerly searched they,<br /></span> +<span>With cunning sought, what were the sin<br /></span> +<span>That they in the folk might have committed</span><span class="linenum">415</span><br /> +<span>Against the Cæsar, for which the queen blames them.<br /></span> +<span>Then there 'fore the earls óne them addressed,<br /></span> +<span>Cunning in songs (his name was Judas),<br /></span> +<span>Crafty in word: "I surely know,<br /></span> +<span>That she will seek of the victor-tree</span><span class="linenum">420</span><br /> +<span>On which once suffered the Ruler of nations<br /></span> +<span>Free from all faults, own Son of God,<br /></span> +<span>Whom though guiltless<a name="FNanchor_26_26" id="FNanchor_26_26"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_26_26" class="fnanchor">[26]</a> of every sin<br /></span> +<span>Through hatred hanged upon the high tree<br /></span> +<span>In days of old oúr own fathers.</span><span class="linenum">425</span><br /> +<a name="page15" id="page15"></a> +<span>That was terrible thought. There is now great need<br /></span> +<span>That we with firmness strengthen our minds,<br /></span> +<span>That we of this murder become not informers,<br /></span> +<span>Where the holy tree was hidden away<br /></span> +<span>After the war-storm, lest máy be rejected</span><span class="linenum">430</span><br /> +<span>The wise old writings and óf our fathers<br /></span> +<span>The lore be lost. Not long will it be<a name="FNanchor_27_27" id="FNanchor_27_27"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_27_27" class="fnanchor">[27]</a><br /></span> +<span>That of Israelites the noble race<br /></span> +<span>Over the mid-earth may reign any more,<br /></span> +<span>The law-craft of earls, if this be revealed:</span><span class="linenum">435</span><br /> +<span>That same long ago mine elder father<br /></span> +<span>Victory-famed said (his name was Zacchaéus),<br /></span> +<span>The wise old man, to mine own father,<br /></span> +<span>[Who afterwards made it known to his, Gn.][29] son,<br /></span> +<span>(He went from this world), and spake this word:</span><span class="linenum">440</span><br /> +<span>'If to thée that happen in the days of thy life,<br /></span> +<span>That thou may'st hear of that holy tree<br /></span> +<span>Wise men inquire and questionings raise<br /></span> +<span>Of that victor-wood on which the true King<br /></span> +<span>Was hanged on high, Guardian of heaven,</span><span class="linenum">445</span><br /> +<span>Child of all peace, then quickly declare it,<br /></span> +<span>Mine own dear son, ere death thee remove.<br /></span> +<span>Ne'er may after that the folk of the Hebrews,<br /></span> +<span>The wise in counsel, their kingdom hold,<br /></span> +<span>Rule over men, but <i>their</i> fame shall live</span><span class="linenum">450</span><br /> +<span>And their dominion [be glorified ever, Gn.],<a name="FNanchor_28_28" id="FNanchor_28_28"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_28_28" class="fnanchor">[28]</a><br /></span> +<span>To world of worlds with joy be filled,<br /></span> +<span>Who the King that was hanged honor and praise.'<br /></span> +<a name="page16" id="page16"></a> +</div></div> + +<h3><a name="part1VI" id="part1VI">VI.</a></h3> + +<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> +<span>"Then quickly I to mine own father,<br /></span> +<span>The old law-sage, answer returned:</span><span class="linenum">455</span><br /> +<span>'How might that happen on kingdom of earth<br /></span> +<span>That they on the holy their hands should lay<br /></span> +<span>For reaving of life, oúr own fathers,<br /></span> +<span>Through hostile mind, if they ere knew<br /></span> +<span>That he were Christ, the King in heaven,</span><span class="linenum">460</span><br /> +<span>True son of Creator, Saviour of souls.'<br /></span> +<span>Then to mé mine elder answer returned,<br /></span> +<span>Wise in his mind my father replied:<br /></span> +<span>'Perceive, young man, the might of God,<br /></span> +<span>The name of the Saviour. That is to each man</span><span class="linenum">465</span><br /> +<span>Unutterable. Him may no one<br /></span> +<span>Upon this earth [ever] find out.<br /></span> +<span>Never that plan that this people framed<br /></span> +<span>Was I willing to follow, but I always myself<br /></span> +<span>Held aloof from their crimes, by no means wrought shame</span><span class="linenum">470</span><br /> +<span>To mine own spirit. To them earnestly often<br /></span> +<span>On account of their wrong I made opposition,<br /></span> +<span>When the learned-in-lore counsel were taking,<br /></span> +<span>Were seeking in soul how the Son of their Maker,<br /></span> +<span>Men's Helm,<a name="FNanchor_29_29" id="FNanchor_29_29"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_29_29" class="fnanchor">[29]</a> they might hang, the Lord of +all,</span><span class="linenum">475</span><br /> +<span>Both angels and men, noblest of children.<br /></span> +<span>They might not so foolish death fasten on him,<br /></span> +<span>Miserable men, as they ere weened,<br /></span> +<span>Afflict with pains, though he for a time<br /></span> +<span>Upon the cross his spirit gave up,</span><span class="linenum">480</span><br /> +<span>Victor-child of God. Then afterwards was<br /></span><a name="page17" id="page17"></a> +<span>Raised from the rood the Ruler of heavens,<br /></span> +<span>Glory of all glories, three nights after<br /></span> +<span>Within the tomb was he abiding<br /></span> +<span>Under the darkness, and then on third day,</span><span class="linenum">485</span><br /> +<span>Light of all light, he living arose,<br /></span> +<span>Prince of angels, and he to his thanes,<br /></span> +<span>True Lord of victories, himself revealed,<br /></span> +<span>Bright in his fame. Then did thy brother<br /></span> +<span>In time receive the bath of baptism,</span><span class="linenum">490</span><br /> +<span>Enlightening belief. For love of the Lord<br /></span> +<span>Was Stephen then with stones assailed,<br /></span> +<span>Nor ill gave for ill, but for foes of old<br /></span> +<span>Patient implored, prayed King of glory<br /></span> +<span>That he the woe-deed would not lay to their charge,</span><span class="linenum">495</span><br /> +<span>In thát through hate the innocent One,<br /></span> +<span>Guiltless of sins, by the teachings of Saul<br /></span> +<span>They robbed of life, as he through enmity<br /></span> +<span>To misery many of the folk of Christ<br /></span> +<span>Condemned, to death. Yet later the Lord</span><span class="linenum">500</span><br /> +<span>Mercy him showed, that to many became he<br /></span> +<span>Of people for comfort, when the God of creation,<br /></span> +<span>Saviour of men, had changed his name,<br /></span> +<span>And afterwards he the holy Paul<br /></span> +<span>Was called by name, and no one than he</span><span class="linenum">505</span><br /> +<span>Of teachers of faith, [no] other, was better<br /></span> +<span>'Neath roof of heaven afterwards ever<br /></span> +<span>Of those man or woman brought into the world,<br /></span> +<span>Although he Stephen with stones them bade<br /></span> +<span>Slay on the mountain, thine own brother.</span><span class="linenum">510</span><br /> +<span>Now may'st thou hear, mine own dear son,<br /></span> +<span>How gracious ís the Ruler of all,<br /></span> +<span>Though we transgression 'gainst him oft commit,<br /></span> +<span>The wound of sins, if we soon after<br /></span> +<span>For those misdeeds repentance work</span><span class="linenum">515</span><br /> +<a name="page18" id="page18"></a> +<span>Ánd from unrighteousness afterwards cease.<br /></span> +<span>Therefore I truly, and my dear father,<br /></span> +<span>After believed [in the Giver of life, Gn.],<br /></span> +<span>That he had suffered, God of all glories,<br /></span> +<span>Leader of life, painful penalty</span><span class="linenum">520</span><br /> +<span>For mighty need of the race of men.<br /></span> +<span>Therefore I teach thee through secret of song,<br /></span> +<span>My dearest child, that scornful words,<br /></span> +<span>Hatred or blasphemy, never thou work,<br /></span> +<span>Fierce contradiction 'gainst the Son of God.</span><span class="linenum">525</span><br /> +<span>Then wilt thou merit that thee life eternal,<br /></span> +<span>Best of rewards, shall be given in heaven.'<br /></span> +<span>Thus mine own father in days of old<br /></span> +<span>Me unwaxen with words did teach,<br /></span> +<span>Instruct with true speech (his name was Simon),</span><span class="linenum">530</span><br /> +<span>Man wise in words. Now well do ye know<br /></span> +<span>What of that in your thought may seem to you best<br /></span> +<span>Plainly to tell, if us this queen<br /></span> +<span>Shall ask of that tree, now mine own mind<br /></span> +<span>And thought of heart ye [well] do know."</span><span class="linenum">535</span><br /> +<span>Him then in reply the cleverest of all<br /></span> +<span>In the crowd of men with words addressed:<br /></span> +<span>"Ne'er did we hear any of men<br /></span> +<span>Among this folk save thee just now,<br /></span> +<span>Another thane, declare in this manner</span><span class="linenum">540</span><br /> +<span>Of so secret event. Do as [best] seems thee,<br /></span> +<span>Thou wise in old lore, if thou be questioned<br /></span> +<span>'Mong the host of men. Of wisdom has need,<br /></span> +<span>Of wary words and sage's cunning,<br /></span> +<span>Who shall to the noble one answer return</span><span class="linenum">545</span><br /> +<span>Before such a host among the assembly."<br /></span> +<a name="page19" id="page19"></a> +</div></div> + + +<h3><a name="part1VII" id="part1VII">VII.</a></h3> + +<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> +<span>Words waxed in speech; men counsel took<br /></span> +<span>On every side; some hither, some thither,<br /></span> +<span>Considered and thought. Then came many thanes<br /></span> +<span>To the people's assembly. The heralds called,</span><span class="linenum">550</span><br /> +<span>The Cæsar's criers: "This queen you invites,<br /></span> +<span>Men, to the hall, that the council-decisions<br /></span> +<span>Ye rightly may tell. Of rede have ye need<br /></span> +<span>In the place of assembly, of wisdom of mind."<br /></span> +<span>Ready they were, the sad-in-mind</span><span class="linenum">555</span><br /> +<span>People's protectors, when they were summoned<br /></span> +<span>Through stern command; to court they went<br /></span> +<span>Craft's might to tell. Then gan the queen<br /></span> +<span>The Hebrew men in words address,<br /></span> +<span>Ask the life-weary of writings of old,</span><span class="linenum">560</span><br /> +<span>How ere in the world the prophets sang,<br /></span> +<span>Men holy in spirit, of the Son of God,<br /></span> +<span>Where the Prince [of the people] his sufferings bore,<br /></span> +<span>True son of Creator, for love of souls.<br /></span> +<span>Stubborn they were, harder than stone,</span><span class="linenum">565</span><br /> +<span>Would not that secret rightly make known<br /></span> +<span>Nor answer to her any would tell,<br /></span> +<span>Anger-provokers, of what she sought,<br /></span> +<span>But they of each word made a denial,<br /></span> +<span>Firm in their minds, of what she gan ask,</span><span class="linenum">570</span><br /> +<span>Said that in life they any such thing<br /></span> +<span>Nor ere nor since ever had heard of.<br /></span> +<span>Helena spake and angrily said:<br /></span> +<span>"I [now] in truth to you will say,—<br /></span> +<span>And of this in your life there shall be no deception,—</span><span class="linenum">575</span><br /> +<span>If ye in this falseness longer continue<br /></span> +<span>With treacherous lying, who stand here before me,<br /></span><a name="page20" id="page20"></a> +<span>That you on the mountain bale-fire shall take,<br /></span> +<span>Hottest of war-waves, and your corpses consume,<br /></span> +<span>The lambent flame, so for yoú shall that lie</span><span class="linenum">580</span><br /> +<span>To leaving of life [surely] be turned.<br /></span> +<span>Ye may not prove that word, which ye just now in wrong<br /></span> +<span>Concealed 'neath heaps<a name="FNanchor_30_30" id="FNanchor_30_30"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_30_30" class="fnanchor">[30]</a> of sins. Nor may ye hide that fate,<br /></span> +<span>Obscure its deepest might." In thought of death they were<br /></span> +<span>Of pyre and life's end, and delivered then one</span><span class="linenum">585</span><br /> +<span>Well-skilled in songs (to him the name Judas<br /></span> +<span>Was given 'fore kinsmen);—him they gave to the queen,<br /></span> +<span>Said of him very wise: "He may truth to thee tell,<br /></span> +<span>Fate's secrets reveal, as thou askest in words,<br /></span> +<span>The law from beginning forth to the end.</span><span class="linenum">590</span><br /> +<span>He is before earth of noble race,<br /></span> +<span>Wise in word-craft and son of a prophet,<br /></span> +<span>Bold in council. To him 'tis inborn<br /></span> +<span>That he the answers clever may have,<br /></span> +<span>Knowledge in heart. He to thée shall declare</span><span class="linenum">595</span><br /> +<span>'Fore the crowd of men the gift of wisdom<br /></span> +<span>Through mickle might, as thy mind desires."<br /></span> +<span>In peace she permitted each one to seek<br /></span> +<span>His own [dear] home, and him alone took,<br /></span> +<span>Judas, as hostage, and earnestly prayed</span><span class="linenum">600</span><br /> +<span>That he of the rood would rightly teach,<br /></span> +<span>Which of old in its bed was long concealed,<br /></span> +<span>And she himself apart to her called.<br /></span> +<span>Helena spake to him alone,<br /></span> +<span>Glory-rich queen: "For thee two are ready,</span><span class="linenum">605</span><br /> +<a name="page21" id="page21"></a> +<span>Or life or death, as liefer shall be,<br /></span> +<span>To thee to choose. Now quickly declare<br /></span> +<span>To which of the two thou wilt agree."<br /></span> +<span>Judas to her spake again (he might not the sorrow avoid,<br /></span> +<span>Avert the ire of the empress.<a name="FNanchor_31_31" id="FNanchor_31_31"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_31_31" class="fnanchor">[31]</a> In the power of the queen was +he):</span><span class="linenum">610</span><br /> +<span>"How maý him befall who oút on the waste,<br /></span> +<span>Tired and foodless, treads the moorland,<br /></span> +<span>Oppressed with hunger, and bread and stone<br /></span> +<span>Both in his sight together<a name="FNanchor_32_32" id="FNanchor_32_32"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_32_32" class="fnanchor">[32]</a> shall be,<br /></span> +<span>The hard and the soft, that he take the stone</span><span class="linenum">615</span><br /> +<span>For hunger's defence, care nót for the bread,<br /></span> +<span>Return to want and reject the food,<br /></span> +<span>Renounce the better, if both he enjoys?"<br /></span> +</div></div> + + +<h3><a name="part1VIII" id="part1VIII">VIII.</a></h3> + +<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> +<span>To him then the blessed answer returned,<br /></span> +<span>Helena 'fore earls without concealment:</span><span class="linenum">620</span><br /> +<span>"If thou in heaven willest to have<br /></span> +<span>Dwelling with angels and life on earth,<br /></span> +<span>Reward in the skies, tell me quickly<br /></span> +<span>Where rests the rood of the King of heaven<br /></span> +<span>Holy 'neath earth, which yé now long</span><span class="linenum">625</span><br /> +<span>Through sin of murder from men have concealed."<br /></span> +<span>Judas replied (his mind was sad,<br /></span> +<span>Heat in his heart and woe for both,<br /></span> +<span>Whether hope of heaven with [all] his soul<br /></span> +<span>He should renounce, along with his present</span><span class="linenum">630</span><br /> +<span><a name="page22" id="page22"></a>Kingdom 'neath skies, or show the rood):<br /></span> +<span>"How may I that find that long ago happened<br /></span> +<span>In course of winters? Now many are gone,<br /></span> +<span>Two hundred or more, reckoned by number;<br /></span> +<span>I may not recount, now the number I know not.</span><span class="linenum">635</span><br /> +<span>Now many have since departed this life,<br /></span> +<span>Of wise and good who were before us,<br /></span> +<span>Of clever men. In youth was I<br /></span> +<span>In later days afterwards born,<br /></span> +<span>A child in years. I cannot what I know not</span><span class="linenum">640</span><br /> +<span>Find in my heart that so long ago happened."<br /></span> +<span>Helena spake to him in answer:<br /></span> +<span>"How has it happened among this people,<br /></span> +<span>That ye so much in mind retain,<br /></span> +<span>Each one of all signs, just as the Trojans</span><span class="linenum">645</span><br /> +<span>In fight effected? 'Twas greater terror,<a name="FNanchor_33_33" id="FNanchor_33_33"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_33_33" class="fnanchor">[33]</a><br /></span> +<span>Well-known old war, than this noble event,<br /></span> +<span>In course of years. Ye that can well<br /></span> +<span>Quickly recount, how many there were<br /></span> +<span>In number of men in that murderous fight</span><span class="linenum">650</span><br /> +<span>Of throwers-with-darts fallen in death<br /></span> +<span>Under the shield-hedge. Ye have the graves<br /></span> +<span>Under the stone-slopes, and likewise the places<br /></span> +<span>And the number of winters in writings set down."<br /></span> +<span>Judas replied (great sorrow he bore):</span><span class="linenum">655</span><br /> +<span>"That work of war, we, lady mine,<br /></span> +<span>Through direful need remember well,<br /></span> +<span>And that tumult of war in writing set down,<br /></span> +<span>The bearing of nations, but this one never<br /></span> +<span>By any man's mouth have we heard</span><span class="linenum">660</span><br /> +<span>Made known to men except here now."<br /></span> +<span>The noble queen gave answer to him:<br /></span><a name="page23" id="page23"></a> +<span>"Thou resistest too much both truth and right<br /></span> +<span>Of the tree of life, and now little before<br /></span> +<span>Thou truly said'st of that victor-tree</span><span class="linenum">665</span><br /> +<span>To thine own people, and now turn'st to a lie."<br /></span> +<span>To her Judas said that he spake that in sorrow<br /></span> +<span>And doubt extreme, worse evil expected.<br /></span> +<span>Him quickly answered the Cæsar's mother:<br /></span> +<span>"Lo! that have we heard through holy books</span><span class="linenum">670</span><br /> +<span>Made known to men that there was hanged<br /></span> +<span>On Calvarý the King's free child,<br /></span> +<span>God's Spirit-son. Thou fully shalt<br /></span> +<span>Wisdom reveal, as writings tell,<br /></span> +<span>About the plain, where the place may be,</span><span class="linenum">675</span><br /> +<span>That Calvarý, ere misery take thee,<br /></span> +<span>Death for thy sins, that I afterwards may<br /></span> +<span>Purify ít at the will of Christ,<br /></span> +<span>For help to men, that holy God,<br /></span> +<span>Almighty Lord, the thought of my heart</span><span class="linenum">680</span><br /> +<span>My wish may fulfil, men's Giver of glory,<br /></span> +<span>Helper of souls." Her Judas answered,<br /></span> +<span>Stubborn in mind: "I know not the place<br /></span> +<span>Nor aught of the plain, nor the thing do I know."<br /></span> +<span>Helena spake with angry mind:</span><span class="linenum">685</span><br /> +<span>"This do I swear through the Son of the Maker<br /></span> +<span>The hangèd God, that with hunger thou shalt<br /></span> +<span>Before thy kinsmen be put to death,<br /></span> +<span>Unless thou forsake these lying tales<br /></span> +<span>And plainly to me the truth make known."</span><span class="linenum">690</span><br /> +<span>Then bade she with band him lead alive,<br /></span> +<span>The guilty one cast (the servants delayed not)<br /></span> +<span>Intó a dry pit, where robbed of joy,<br /></span> +<span>He lingered in sorrows seven nights' time<br /></span> +<span>Within the prison oppressed with hunger,</span><span class="linenum">695</span><br /> +<span>Fastened with fetters, and then gan he call,<br /></span><a name="page24" id="page24"></a> +<span>Weakened by pains, on the seventh day,<br /></span> +<span>Tired and foodless (his strength was exhausted):<br /></span> +<span>"I you beseech through heaven's God,<br /></span> +<span>That me from these sufferings ye maý release,</span><span class="linenum">700</span><br /> +<span>Humbled by hunger. Of that holy tree<br /></span> +<span>Shall I willingly tell, now longer I may not<br /></span> +<span>For hunger conceal it. This bond is too strong,<br /></span> +<span>Distress too severe, and this misery too hard<br /></span> +<span>In number of days. I may not endure it,</span><span class="linenum">705</span><br /> +<span>Nor longer conceal of the tree of life,<br /></span> +<span>Though with folly before I was thoroughly filled,<br /></span> +<span>And the truth too late I myself have perceived."<br /></span> +</div></div> + + +<h3><a name="part1IX" id="part1IX">IX.</a></h3> + +<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> +<span>When she that heard, who men there ordered,<br /></span> +<span>The man's behavior, she quickly commanded</span><span class="linenum">710</span><br /> +<span>That him from confinement and out of his dungeon,<br /></span> +<span>From the narrow abode, they shóuld release.<br /></span> +<span>They hastily thát did soon perform<br /></span> +<span>And him with honor then led they up<br /></span> +<span>From out of the prison as them the queen bade.</span><span class="linenum">715</span><br /> +<span>Stepped they then to the place, the firm-in-mind,<br /></span> +<span>Upon the hill on which the Lord<br /></span> +<span>Before was hanged, heaven-kingdom's Ward,<br /></span> +<span>God's child, on the cross, and yet knew he not well,<br /></span> +<span>Weakened by hunger, where the holy rood</span><span class="linenum">720</span><br /> +<span>Through cunning of foe<a name="FNanchor_34_34" id="FNanchor_34_34"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_34_34" class="fnanchor">[34]</a> enclosed in earth,</span><span class="linenum">721-2</span><br /> +<span>Long firm in its bed concealed from men,<br /></span> +<span>Remained in its grave. Now raised he his voice,<br /></span> +<span>Unmindful<a name="FNanchor_35_35" id="FNanchor_35_35"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_35_35" class="fnanchor">[35]</a> of might, and in Hebrew he +spake:</span><span class="linenum">725</span><br /> +<span><a name="page25" id="page25"></a>"Saviour Lord, thou hast power of rule,<br /></span> +<span>And thou didst create through the might of thy glory<br /></span> +<span>Heaven and earth and the boisterous sea,<br /></span> +<span>The ocean's wide bosom, all creatures alike,<br /></span> +<span>And thou didst measure with thine own hands</span><span class="linenum">730</span><br /> +<span>All the globe of the earth and the heaven above,<br /></span> +<span>And thou thyself sittest, Wielder of victories,<br /></span> +<span>Above the noblest order of angels,<br /></span> +<span>That fly through the air encircled with light,<br /></span> +<span>Great might of glory. There mankind may not</span><span class="linenum">735</span><br /> +<span>From the paths of earth ascend on high<br /></span> +<span>In bodily form with thát bright host,<br /></span> +<span>Heralds of glory. These wroughtest thou,<br /></span> +<span>And for thíne own service thém didst thou set,<br /></span> +<span>Holy and heavenly. Of these in the choir</span><span class="linenum">740</span><br /> +<span>In joy eternal six are named,<br /></span> +<span>Who are surrounded with six wings apiece,<br /></span> +<span>[With them are] adorned, [and] fair they shine.<br /></span> +<span>Of these are four who ever in flight<br /></span> +<span>The service of glory attend upon</span><span class="linenum">745</span><br /> +<span>Before the face of the Judge eternal,<br /></span> +<span>Continually sing in glory the praise,<br /></span> +<span>With clearest voices, of the King of heaven,<br /></span> +<span>Most beauteous of songs, and say these words<br /></span> +<span>With voices pure (their name Cherubím):</span><span class="linenum">750</span><br /> +<span>'Holy is the holy God of archangels,<br /></span> +<span>Ruler of hosts. Full of his glory<br /></span> +<span>Are heaven and earth and all the high powers<br /></span> +<span>With glory distinguished,' There are two among these,<br /></span> +<span>Victor-race in heaven, who Seraphím</span><span class="linenum">755</span><br /> +<span>By name are called. They sháll Paradise<br /></span> +<span>And the tree of life with flaming sword<br /></span> +<span>Holy maintain. The hard-edged trembles,<br /></span> +<span>The etched brand wavers, and changes its form,<br /></span><a name="page26" id="page26"></a> +<span>Firm in their grips. Thát,<a name="FNanchor_36_36" id="FNanchor_36_36"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_36_36" class="fnanchor">[36]</a> O Lord God,</span><span class="linenum">760</span><br /> +<span>Ever thou wieldest, and thou the sinful,<br /></span> +<span>Guilt-working foes out of the heavens,<br /></span> +<span>The foolish, didst cast. The accursèd host then<br /></span> +<span>Under dwellings of darkness was forced to fall<br /></span> +<span>To perdition of hell. There now in the welling</span><span class="linenum">765</span><br /> +<span>Endure they death-pain in the dragon's embrace,<br /></span> +<span>Enclosed in darkness. [Thee] he resisted,<br /></span> +<span>Thy princely rule; therefore in misery,<br /></span> +<span>Full<a name="FNanchor_37_37" id="FNanchor_37_37"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_37_37" class="fnanchor">[37]</a> of all foulness, he guilty shall suffer,<br /></span> +<span>Slavery endure. There may he not</span><span class="linenum">770</span><br /> +<span>Thy word reject: he is fast in torments,<br /></span> +<span>The author of sin, in misery bound.<br /></span> +<span>If thy will it be, Ruler of angels,<br /></span> +<span>That he may reign who was on the rood,<br /></span> +<span>And who through Mary upon the mid-earth</span><span class="linenum">775</span><br /> +<span>Incarnate became in form of a child,<br /></span> +<span>Prince of the angels (if hé had not been<br /></span> +<span>Thy Son free from sin, never so many<br /></span> +<span>True wonders in world would hé have wrought<br /></span> +<span>In number of days. Thou wouldst not from death</span><span class="linenum">780</span><br /> +<span>So gloriously him, Ruler of nations,<br /></span> +<span>Have awaked 'fore the hosts, if hé in glory<br /></span> +<span>Through the bright [maid] were not thy Son),—<br /></span> +<span>Now, Father of angels, send forth thy sign.<br /></span> +<span>As thou didst hear the holy man,</span><span class="linenum">785</span><br /> +<span>Moses, in prayer, when thou, God of might,<br /></span> +<span>Didst show to the earl at the noble time<br /></span> +<span>Under the hill-slope the bones of Joseph,<br /></span> +<span>So, Ruler of hosts, if it be thy will,<br /></span> +<span>Through that bright form I'll pray to thee</span><span class="linenum">790</span><br /> +<span>That to me the gold-hoard, Maker of spirits,<br /></span> +<span><a name="page27" id="page27"></a>Thou wilt reveal, that has been from men<br /></span> +<span>[So] long concealed. Let, Author of life,<br /></span> +<span>Now from this plain a winsome smoke<br /></span> +<span>'Neath heaven's expanse mount up on high</span><span class="linenum">795</span><br /> +<span>Playing in the air. I'll the better believe,<br /></span> +<span>And I'll the more firmly stablish my mind,<br /></span> +<span>Undoubting trust, upon the hanged Christ,<br /></span> +<span>That hé be in truth the Saviour of souls,<br /></span> +<span>Eternal, Almighty, Israel's King,</span><span class="linenum">800</span><br /> +<span>Forever may have glory in heaven,<br /></span> +<span>Rule without end the dwellings eternal."<br /></span> +</div></div> + + +<h3><a name="part1X" id="part1X">X.</a></h3> + +<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> +<span>Then out of that place a vapor arose<br /></span> +<span>Like smoke 'neath the heavens. Thére was rejoiced<br /></span> +<span>The mind of the man. With both his hands,</span><span class="linenum">805</span><br /> +<span>Happy and láw-clever, upward he clapped.<br /></span> +<span>Judas exclaimed, clever in thought:<br /></span> +<span>"Now I in truth myself have known<br /></span> +<span>In my hardened heart that thou art the Saviour<br /></span> +<span>Of [this] mid-earth. To thee, God of might,</span><span class="linenum">810</span><br /> +<span>Sitting in glory, be thanks without end,<br /></span> +<span>That to me so sad and so full of sin<br /></span> +<span>Thou revealed'st in glory the secrets of fate.<br /></span> +<span>Now, Son of God, to thee will I pray,<br /></span> +<span>Will-giver of peoples, now I know that thou art</span><span class="linenum">815</span><br /> +<span>Declared and born of all kings the Glory,<br /></span> +<span>That thou no longer be of my sins,<br /></span> +<span>Those which I committed by no means seldom,<br /></span> +<span>O Maker, mindful. Let mé, God of might,<br /></span> +<span>Amid the number of thine own kingdom</span><span class="linenum">820</span><br /> +<span>With the army of saints my dwelling have<br /></span><a name="page28" id="page28"></a> +<span>In that bright city, where is my brother<br /></span> +<span>Honored in glory, for that faith with thee<br /></span> +<span>He, Stephen, kept, though with handfuls of stones<br /></span> +<span>He was pelted to death. War's meed he has,</span><span class="linenum">825</span><br /> +<span>Fame without end. There are in books<br /></span> +<span>The wonders he wrought, in writings, made known."<br /></span> +<span>Then gan he glad for the tree of glory,<br /></span> +<span>Constant in zeal, delve in the earth<br /></span> +<span>Beneath the turf, so thát at twenty</span><span class="linenum">830</span><br /> +<span>Feet by measure he found far concealed,<br /></span> +<span>Down in the depths hidden in the earth<br /></span> +<span>'Neath cover of darkness,—there found he three<br /></span> +<span>Of roods together within the sad house<br /></span> +<span>Buried in sand, as in days of old</span><span class="linenum">835</span><br /> +<span>The host of the wicked covered with earth,<br /></span> +<span>The folk of the Jews. 'Gainst the child of God<br /></span> +<span>Hatred they raised, although they should not,<br /></span> +<span>If the lore they'd not heard of the father of lies.<br /></span> +<span>Then wás his mind greatly rejoiced,</span><span class="linenum">840</span><br /> +<span>His heart was strengthened by that holy tree,<br /></span> +<span>His spirit inspired, when the beacon he saw<br /></span> +<span>Holy 'neath earth. With his hands he clasped<br /></span> +<span>The cross<a name="FNanchor_38_38" id="FNanchor_38_38"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_38_38" class="fnanchor">[38]</a> of glory, and it raised 'mid the crowd<br /></span> +<span>From its grave in the earth. The guests on foot,</span><span class="linenum">845</span><br /> +<span>The æthelings, went on into the city.<br /></span> +<span>They set there in sight three victor-trees<br /></span> +<span>The firm-minded earls 'fore Helena's feet,<a name="FNanchor_39_39" id="FNanchor_39_39"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_39_39" class="fnanchor">[39]</a><br /></span> +<span>Courageous in heart. The queen rejoiced<br /></span> +<span>In the depth of her soul, and then gan ask</span><span class="linenum">850</span><br /> +<span>On which of those trees the Son of the Ruler,<br /></span> +<span>Joy-giver of heroes, hangèd had been.<br /></span> +<span>"Lo! thát we have heard through holy books<br /></span> +<span><a name="page29" id="page29"></a>By tokens declared, that two with-him<br /></span> +<span>[Also] suffered, and himself was the third</span><span class="linenum">855</span><br /> +<span>On the tree of the rood. All heaven was dark<br /></span> +<span>On that terrible day. Say, if thou canst,<br /></span> +<span>On which of these three the Prince of the angels<br /></span> +<span>Suffered [his doom], the Shepherd of glory."<br /></span> +<span>Her Judas might not (he knew not full well)</span><span class="linenum">860</span><br /> +<span>Plainly inform of the victor-wood,<br /></span> +<span>On which one the Saviour uplifted had been,<br /></span> +<span>Victor-son of God, ere he bade them set<br /></span> +<span>Within the middle of that great city<br /></span> +<span>The trees with clamor, and there await</span><span class="linenum">865</span><br /> +<span>Till to him declared the Almighty King<br /></span> +<span>The wonder 'fore the folk of that tree of glory.<br /></span> +<span>The victor-famed sat, their song they raised,<br /></span> +<span>The wise in rede, 'round the three roods<br /></span> +<span>Until the ninth hour; new joy they had</span><span class="linenum">870</span><br /> +<span>With wonder found. Then came there a crowd,<br /></span> +<span>No little folk, and a man deceased<br /></span> +<span>They brought on a bier with heap of men<br /></span> +<span>In neighborhood [nigh] (ninth hour it was),<br /></span> +<span>A lifeless youth. Then Judas was there</span><span class="linenum">875</span><br /> +<span>In thought of his heart greatly rejoiced.<br /></span> +<span>He bade then set the soul-less [youth],<br /></span> +<span>Deprived of life the corpse on the earth,<br /></span> +<span>The lifeless one, and up he raised,<br /></span> +<span>Declarer of truth, two of the crosses,</span><span class="linenum">880</span><br /> +<span>The wise, in his arms o'er that fated house,<br /></span> +<span>Plunged deep in thought. It was dead as before,<br /></span> +<span>Corpse fast on its bier: the limbs were cold,<br /></span> +<span>Clad in distress. Then wás the third<br /></span> +<span>Holy upraised. The body awaited</span><span class="linenum">885</span><br /> +<span>Until over it the Ætheling's [cross],<br /></span> +<span>His rood, was upraised, Heaven-king's tree,<br /></span><a name="page30" id="page30"></a> +<span>True token of victory. Soon he arose<br /></span> +<span>Ready in spirit, both together<br /></span> +<span>Body and soul. There praise was uplifted</span><span class="linenum">890</span><br /> +<span>Fair 'mid the folk. The Father they honored,<br /></span> +<span>And also the true Son of the Ruler<br /></span> +<span>They praised in words. Be glory and thanks<br /></span> +<span>To Him without end from all His creatures.<br /></span> +</div></div> + + +<h3><a name="part1XI" id="part1XI">XI.</a></h3> + +<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> +<span>Then wás to the people in the depth of their souls</span><span class="linenum">895</span><br /> +<span>Impressed on their minds, as ever shall be,<br /></span> +<span>The wonder that wrought the Lord of hosts<br /></span> +<span>For saving of souls of the race of men,<br /></span> +<span>The Teacher of life. There the sinner-through-lies<br /></span> +<span>Then stied in the air, the flying fiend.</span><span class="linenum">900</span><br /> +<span>Gan then exclaim the devil of hell,<br /></span> +<span>The terrible monster, mindful of evils:<br /></span> +<span>"Lo! whát man is this, who now again<br /></span> +<span>With ancient strife my service will ruin,<br /></span> +<span>Increase the old hate, [and] plunder my goods?</span><span class="linenum">905</span><br /> +<span>This contest's increasing. The souls cannot,<br /></span> +<span>Workers of sin, longer within<br /></span> +<span>My power remain, now a stranger is come,<br /></span> +<span>Whom I ere reckoned fast in his sins,<br /></span> +<span>Me has he robbed of every right,</span><span class="linenum">910</span><br /> +<span>Of precious possessions. That's nót a fair course.<br /></span> +<span>To me many harms the Saviour has done,<br /></span> +<span>Contests oppressive, he who in Nazareth<br /></span> +<span>Was reared as a child. As soon as he grew<br /></span> +<span>From childhood's years, he to hím ever turned</span><span class="linenum">915</span><br /> +<span>Mine own possessions. I may not now<br /></span> +<span>In any right thrive. His kingdom is broad<br /></span><a name="page31" id="page31"></a> +<span>Over the mid-earth. My might is lessened<br /></span> +<span>Under the heavens. The rood I need not<br /></span> +<span>Joyfully praise. Lo! me the Saviour</span><span class="linenum">920</span><br /> +<span>In that narrow home again has confined<br /></span> +<span>Sadly for sorrow. Through Judas before<br /></span> +<span>Joyful I was, and now am I humbled,<br /></span> +<span>Deprived of goods, through Judas again,<br /></span> +<span>Despised and friendless. Still can I find</span><span class="linenum">925</span><br /> +<span>Through evil deeds return hereafter<a name="FNanchor_40_40" id="FNanchor_40_40"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_40_40" class="fnanchor">[40]</a><br /></span> +<span>From the homes of the damned. 'Gainst thee will I rouse<br /></span> +<span>Another king<a name="FNanchor_41_41" id="FNanchor_41_41"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_41_41" class="fnanchor">[41]</a> who will persecute thee,<br /></span> +<span>And he will reject thine own instruction,<br /></span> +<span>And sinful manners of mine will he follow,</span><span class="linenum">930</span><br /> +<span>And thee will he send then into the blackest<br /></span> +<span>And into the worst terrors of torments,<br /></span> +<span>That with sorrow beset thou'lt firmly renounce<br /></span> +<span>The hangèd King whom ere thou obeyed'st."<br /></span> +<span>To him then the cunning Judas replied,</span><span class="linenum">935</span><br /> +<span>The battle-brave man (in him Holy Spirit<br /></span> +<span>Was firmly implanted, fire-hot his love,<br /></span> +<span>His wit was welling with warrior's craft),<br /></span> +<span>And this word he spake with wisdom filled:<br /></span> +<span>"Thou need not so strongly, mindful of sins,</span><span class="linenum">940</span><br /> +<span>Sorrow renew, and strife uprear,<br /></span> +<span>Sin-maker of murder, for thee mighty King<br /></span> +<span>In the depths beneath will thrust thee down,<br /></span> +<span>Worker of sin, to miseries' bottom<br /></span> +<span>Deprived of glory, who many of the dead</span><span class="linenum">945</span><br /> +<span>With his word awaked. Know thou the readier,<br /></span> +<span>That thou with folly didst once renounce<br /></span> +<span><a name="page32" id="page32"></a>Brightest of lights and love of the Lord,<br /></span> +<span>The fairest joy, and in bath of fire,<br /></span> +<span>Surrounded with torments, didst afterwards dwell,</span><span class="linenum">950</span><br /> +<span>Consumed with flame, and there ever shalt,<br /></span> +<span>Hostile in mind, punishment suffer,<br /></span> +<span>Misery endless." Helena heard<br /></span> +<span>How the fiend and the friend contests aroused,<br /></span> +<span>The blest and the base, on both their sides,</span><span class="linenum">955</span><br /> +<span>The sinner and the saint. Her mind was the gladder<br /></span> +<span>For that she heard the hellish foe<br /></span> +<span>[The fiend] overcome, the worker of sins,<br /></span> +<span>And then she wondered at the wit of the man,<br /></span> +<span>How hé so truthful in so little time</span><span class="linenum">960</span><br /> +<span>And so untaught ever became<br /></span> +<span>With wisdom inspired. [Then] thanked she God,<br /></span> +<span>The King of glory, that her wish was fulfilled<br /></span> +<span>Through the Son of God of each of the two,<br /></span> +<span>Bóth for the sight of the victor-tree,</span><span class="linenum">965</span><br /> +<span>Ánd of the faith that<a name="FNanchor_42_42" id="FNanchor_42_42"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_42_42" class="fnanchor">[42]</a> so bright she perceived,<br /></span> +<span>The glorious gift in the breast of the man.<br /></span> +</div></div> + + +<h3><a name="part1XII" id="part1XII">XII.</a></h3> + +<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> +<span>Thén was made known among that folk,<br /></span> +<span>Throughout that nation widely proclaimed,<br /></span> +<span>The great morning-news for a grievance to many</span><span class="linenum">970</span><br /> +<span>Of those who God's law wished to conceal,<br /></span> +<span>Announced in the towns far as waters embrace,<br /></span> +<span>In each of the cities, that the rood of Christ<br /></span> +<span>Once buried in earth had been discovered,<br /></span> +<span>Brightest of beacons, which since or before</span><span class="linenum">975</span><br /> +<span>Holy 'neath heavens had been upheaved;<br /></span><a name="page33" id="page33"></a> +<span>And it was to the Jews the greatest of sorrows,<br /></span> +<span>Unhappy men, most hateful of fates,<br /></span> +<span>That they 'fore the world were unable to change it,<br /></span> +<span>The joy of the Christians. Then bade the queen</span><span class="linenum">980</span><br /> +<span>'Mong the host of earls heralds to hasten,<br /></span> +<span>Quickly to journey; they should of the Romans<br /></span> +<span>O'er the high sea the lord seek out,<br /></span> +<span>Ánd to that warrior the best of tidings<br /></span> +<span>Say, to himself, that the victor-sign</span><span class="linenum">985</span><br /> +<span>Through Creator's favor had been recovered,<br /></span> +<span>Found in the earth, which ages before<br /></span> +<span>Had been concealed for sorrow to saints,<br /></span> +<span>To Christian folk. Then was to the king<br /></span> +<span>Through the glorious words his spirit gladdened,</span><span class="linenum">990</span><br /> +<span>His heart rejoicing. Then was of inquirers<br /></span> +<span>'Neath golden garments no lack in the cities<br /></span> +<span>Come from afar. To him greatest of comforts<br /></span> +<span>It became in the world at the wished-for tidings,—<br /></span> +<span>His heart delighted,—which army-leaders</span><span class="linenum">995</span><br /> +<span>Over the east-ways, messengers, brought him,<br /></span> +<span>How happy a journey over the swan-road<br /></span> +<span>The men with the queen successfully made<br /></span> +<span>To the land of the Greeks. The Cæsar bade them<br /></span> +<span>With greatest haste again prepare</span><span class="linenum">1000</span><br /> +<span>Themselves for the way. The men delayed not<br /></span> +<span>As soon as they had the answer heard,<br /></span> +<span>The words of the ætheling. Bade he Helena hail,<br /></span> +<span>The war-famed greet, if they the sea-voyage<br /></span> +<span>And happy journey were able to make,</span><span class="linenum">1005</span><br /> +<span>Brave-minded men, to the holy city.<br /></span> +<span>Bade also to her the messengers say<br /></span> +<span>Constantínus, that she a church<br /></span> +<span>On the mountain-slope for gain of both<br /></span> +<span>Should there erect, a temple of God,</span><span class="linenum">1010</span><br /> +<a name="page34" id="page34"></a> +<span>On Calvarý, for joy to Christ,<br /></span> +<span>For help to men, where the holy rood<br /></span> +<span>Had béen discovered, greatest of trees,<br /></span> +<span>Of those that earth-dwellers ever heard named<br /></span> +<span>Upon the earth. So she effected,</span><span class="linenum">1015</span><br /> +<span>After dear kinsmen brought from the west<br /></span> +<span>Over the ocean many loved tidings.<br /></span> +<span>Then bade the queen those skilled in crafts<br /></span> +<span>To seek out apart, the best of all,<br /></span> +<span>Those who most cunningly knew how to work</span><span class="linenum">1020</span><br /> +<span>In joinings of stones, on the open plain<br /></span> +<span>God's temple to build. As the Warden of spirits<br /></span> +<span>Her counselled from heaven, she bade the rood<br /></span> +<span>With gold adorn and gems of all kinds,<br /></span> +<span>With the most splendid of precious stones</span><span class="linenum">1025</span><br /> +<span>To set with skill, and in silver chest<br /></span> +<span>To enclose with locks. There that tree of life,<br /></span> +<span>Best of victor-trees, has since remained<br /></span> +<span>In nature eternal.<a name="FNanchor_43_43" id="FNanchor_43_43"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_43_43" class="fnanchor">[43]</a> There 'twill be ever ready<br /></span> +<span>A help to the sick 'gainst every ill,</span><span class="linenum">1030</span><br /> +<span>Distress and sorrow. There soon will they<br /></span> +<span>Through that holy creation assistance obtain,<br /></span> +<span>A gift divine. Also Judas received<br /></span> +<span>After fixed time the bath of baptism,<br /></span> +<span>And cleansed became, trustful in Christ,</span><span class="linenum">1035</span><br /> +<span>Dear to the Life-warden. His faith became<br /></span> +<span>Firm in his heart, when the Spirit of comfort<br /></span> +<span>Made his abode in the breast of the man,<br /></span> +<span>To repentance him urged. The better he chose,<br /></span> +<span>The joy of glory, and the worse he refused,</span><span class="linenum">1040</span><br /> +<span>The service of idols, and error rejected,<br /></span> +<span>Unlawful belief. To him King<a name="FNanchor_44_44" id="FNanchor_44_44"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_44_44" class="fnanchor">[44]</a> eternal,<br /></span> +<span>The Creator, was mild, God, Ruler of might.<br /></span> +<a name="page35" id="page35"></a> +</div></div> + +<h3><a name="part1XIII" id="part1XIII">XIII.</a></h3> + +<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> +<span>Then hé was baptized who often before<br /></span> +<span>The ready light [had long rejected, Gn.],</span><span class="linenum">1045</span><br /> +<span>Inspired was his soul for that better life,<br /></span> +<span>To glory turned. Fate surely ordained<br /></span> +<span>That so full of faith and so dear to God<br /></span> +<span>In realm of the world he should become,<br /></span> +<span>[So] pleasing to Christ. That known became,</span><span class="linenum">1050</span><br /> +<span>After that Helena bade them Eusebius,<br /></span> +<span>Bishop of Rome, into council with her<br /></span> +<span>To bring for help, the very wise [man]<br /></span> +<span>By means of men,<a name="FNanchor_45_45" id="FNanchor_45_45"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_45_45" class="fnanchor">[45]</a> to the holy city,<br /></span> +<span>That he might ordain to the sacred office</span><span class="linenum">1055</span><br /> +<span>Judas for the folk in Jerúsalém,<br /></span> +<span>To be their bishop within the city,<br /></span> +<span>Through gift of the Spirit for the temple of God<br /></span> +<span>Chosen with wisdom, and him Cyriácus<br /></span> +<span>Through counsel of wit she afterwards named</span><span class="linenum">1060</span><br /> +<span>A second time. The name was changed<br /></span> +<span>Of the man in the city henceforth for the better,<br /></span> +<span>For the law of the Saviour. Then still Helena's<br /></span> +<span>Mind was disturbed at the wondrous fate,<br /></span> +<span>Very much for the nails, those which the Saviour's</span><span class="linenum">1065</span><br /> +<span>Feet had pierced through and likewise his hands,<br /></span> +<span>With which on the rood the Ruler of Heaven,<br /></span> +<span>Lord mighty, was fastened. Of these gan ask<br /></span> +<span>The Christians' queen, Cyriacus prayed<br /></span> +<span>That still for her, by the might of his spirit,</span><span class="linenum">1070</span><br /> +<span>For the wondrous fate the will he'ld fulfil,<br /></span> +<span>Reveal by his gifts, and shé addressed<br /></span> +<span>This word to the bishop, boldly she spake:<br /></span><a name="page36" id="page36"></a> +<span>"Thou, earls' defence, the noble tree<br /></span> +<span>Of heavens' King me rightly didst show,</span><span class="linenum">1075</span><br /> +<span>On which was hanged by heathen hands<br /></span> +<span>The Helper of spirits, own Son of God,<br /></span> +<span>Saviour of men. Still of the nails<br /></span> +<span>In thought of my mind curiosity troubles me.<br /></span> +<span>I would thou should'st find those which yet in the earth</span><span class="linenum">1080</span><br /> +<span>Deeply buried remain concealed,<br /></span> +<span>Hidden in darkness. My heart ever sorrows,<br /></span> +<span>Sad it complains and never will rest,<br /></span> +<span>Ere for mé He fulfil, Almighty Father,<br /></span> +<span>Ruler of hosts, mine own desire,</span><span class="linenum">1085</span><br /> +<span>Saviour of men, by sight<a name="FNanchor_46_46" id="FNanchor_46_46"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_46_46" class="fnanchor">[46]</a> of the nails,<br /></span> +<span>The Holy from height. Now quickly do thou<br /></span> +<span>With all humility, most excellent man,<br /></span> +<span>Direct thy prayer to the heavens bright,<br /></span> +<span>To the Ruler of glory, pray Strength of warriors,</span><span class="linenum">1090</span><br /> +<span>That to thee may reveal the Almighty King<br /></span> +<span>The hord 'neath the earth, that hidden still,<br /></span> +<span>Concealed from men, in secret abides."<br /></span> +<span>Then gan the holy one strengthen his heart,<br /></span> +<span>Inspired in his breast the bishop of the folk,</span><span class="linenum">1095</span><br /> +<span>Glad-minded, went with a crowd of men<br /></span> +<span>Those praising God, and earnestly then<br /></span> +<span>Cyriacús on Calvarý<br /></span> +<span>Inclined his face, his secret concealed not,<br /></span> +<span>With might of his spirit called upon God</span><span class="linenum">1100</span><br /> +<span>With all humility, prayed Warden of angels<br /></span> +<span>To open to him the unknown fate<br /></span> +<span>In his new distress, where he the nails<br /></span> +<span>Upon the plain Best need expect.<br /></span><a name="page37" id="page37"></a> +<span>Then caused he the token, where they were looking,</span><span class="linenum">1105</span><br /> +<span>The Father, hope's Spirit, in form of fire<br /></span> +<span>Upwards to rise, where they most noble<br /></span> +<span>By means of men<a name="FNanchor_47_47" id="FNanchor_47_47"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_47_47" class="fnanchor">[47]</a> had once been hidden<br /></span> +<span>With secret cunning, the nails in the earth.<br /></span> +<span>Then suddenly came brighter than sun</span><span class="linenum">1110</span><br /> +<span>The playing flame. The people saw<br /></span> +<span>To the giver of their will<a name="FNanchor_48_48" id="FNanchor_48_48"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_48_48" class="fnanchor">[48]</a> the wonder made known,<br /></span> +<span>When there out of darkness, like stars of heaven<br /></span> +<span>Or gems of gold, upon the bottom<br /></span> +<span>The nails from the narrow bed shining beneath</span><span class="linenum">1115</span><br /> +<span>Brilliantly glittered. The people rejoiced,<br /></span> +<span>The glad-minded host, spake glory to God<br /></span> +<span>With one accord all, though ere they were<br /></span> +<span>By the devil's deceit long in error,<br /></span> +<span>Estranged from Christ. Thus did they speak:</span><span class="linenum">1120</span><br /> +<span>"Ourselves now we see the token of victory,<br /></span> +<span>True wonder of God, that before we opposed<br /></span> +<span>With lying words. Now is come into light,<br /></span> +<span>Is revealed, fate's course. May glory for this<br /></span> +<span>Have in the highest heaven-kingdom's God!"</span><span class="linenum">1125</span><br /> +<span>Then hé was rejoiced who turned to repentance<br /></span> +<span>Through the Son of God, the people's bishop,<br /></span> +<span>A second time. He took the nails,<br /></span> +<span>Disturbed with fear, ánd to the venerable<br /></span> +<span>Queen did he bring them. Cyriacus had</span><span class="linenum">1130</span><br /> +<span>It all fulfilled as the noble one bade him,<br /></span> +<span>The woman's will. There was sound of weeping,<br /></span> +<span>Hot head-welling was poured o'er her cheeks,<br /></span> +<span>By no means for sorrow. The tears were falling<br /></span> +<span>O'er the plaiting of wires.<a name="FNanchor_49_49" id="FNanchor_49_49"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_49_49" class="fnanchor">[49]</a> With glory fulfilled</span><span class="linenum">1135</span><br /> +<span><a name="page38" id="page38"></a>Was the wish of the queen. She knelt on her knees<br /></span> +<span>With bright belief; she honored the gift,<br /></span> +<span>Rejoicing with joy, which wás to her brought<br /></span> +<span>For help in her sorrows. Then thanked she God,<br /></span> +<span>The Lord of victories, that the truth she had learnt</span><span class="linenum">1140</span><br /> +<span>At that present time, that oft was announced<br /></span> +<span>So long before from creation of the world<br /></span> +<span>For comfort to the people. Shé was inspired<br /></span> +<span>With the gift of wisdom, and his dwelling held<br /></span> +<span>Holy Spirit of heaven, guarded her breast,</span><span class="linenum">1145</span><br /> +<span>Her noble heart. So her the Almighty<br /></span> +<span>Victor-son of God after protected.<br /></span> +</div></div> + + +<h3><a name="part1XIV" id="part1XIV">XIV.</a></h3> + +<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> +<span>Then eagerly gan she with secrets of soul<br /></span> +<span>Seek in her spirit by soothfastnéss<br /></span> +<span>The way to glory. Now God of hosts</span><span class="linenum">1150</span><br /> +<span>His help bestowed, the Father in heaven,<br /></span> +<span>Almighty King, that the queen obtained<br /></span> +<span>Her will in the world. The prophecy was<br /></span> +<span>By sages of old sung long before<br /></span> +<span>All from beginning, as it afterwards happened</span><span class="linenum">1155</span><br /> +<span>In respect to each thing. The folk-queen began<br /></span> +<span>Through gift of the Spirit gladly to seek<br /></span> +<span>With greatest care how best the nails,<br /></span> +<span>And in manner most worthy, she might apply<br /></span> +<span>For joy to the folk, what was will of the Lord.</span><span class="linenum">1160</span><br /> +<span>Bade she then fetch a very wise man<br /></span> +<span>Quickly to counsel, him who wisdom<br /></span> +<span>Through clever might thoroughly knew,<br /></span> +<span>Wise in his heart, and gan him ask<br /></span> +<span>What in his soul seemed to him best</span><span class="linenum">1165</span><br /> +<span>To do about that, and his teachings she chose<br /></span><a name="page39" id="page39"></a> +<span>In respect to her conduct. Her boldly<a name="FNanchor_50_50" id="FNanchor_50_50"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_50_50" class="fnanchor">[50]</a> he answered:<br /></span> +<span>"That is becoming that word of the Lord<br /></span> +<span>Thou hold in heart, holy counsel,<br /></span> +<span>Most excellent queen, and the King's command</span><span class="linenum">1170</span><br /> +<span>Gladly fulfil, now God has thee given<br /></span> +<span>Success of soul and craft of wit,<br /></span> +<span>The Saviour of men. Bid thou these nails<br /></span> +<span>For that most excellent of earthly kings,<br /></span> +<span>Of owners of cities, put on his bridle</span><span class="linenum">1175</span><br /> +<span>For bit to his horse. To many that shall,<br /></span> +<span>Throughout the mid-earth, become renowned,<br /></span> +<span>When with that in contest he may overcome<br /></span> +<span>Each one of his foes, when the brave-in-war<br /></span> +<span>On either side the battle seek,</span><span class="linenum">1180</span><br /> +<span>Sword-contenders, where they strive for victory,<br /></span> +<span>Foe against foe. War-speed shall he have,<br /></span> +<span>Victory in fight and everywhere peace,<br /></span> +<span>In battle success, who carries in front<br /></span> +<span>The bridle on horse, when the famed-in-fight</span><span class="linenum">1185</span><br /> +<span>At clashing of spears, the choicest of men,<br /></span> +<span>Bear shield and lance. To each one of men<br /></span> +<span>Against war-terror shall be invincible<br /></span> +<span>This weapon in war. The seer of it sang,<br /></span> +<span>Cunning in thought. Deep moved his mind,</span><span class="linenum">1190</span><br /> +<span>His wit of wisdom. This word he spake:<br /></span> +<span>'That shall be known that the horse of the king<br /></span> +<span>Shall 'neath the proud with bit be adorned,<br /></span> +<span>With bridle-rings. That beacon to God<br /></span> +<span>Shall holy be called, and that one valor-blessed,</span><span class="linenum">1195</span><br /> +<span>Honored in war, who rides on that horse.'"<br /></span> +<span>With haste then that did all perform<br /></span> +<span>Helena 'fore earls, bade the ætheling's,<br /></span><a name="page40" id="page40"></a> +<span>Heroes' ring-giver's, bridle adorn,<br /></span> +<span>To her own son sent as a present</span><span class="linenum">1200</span><br /> +<span>O'er ocean's stream the blameless gift.<br /></span> +<span>She bade then together those whom as best<br /></span> +<span>Of men she knew among the Jews,<br /></span> +<span>Of the race of heroes, to the holy city,<br /></span> +<span>To the town to come. Then gan the queen</span><span class="linenum">1205</span><br /> +<span>The dear ones teach that love of the Lord<br /></span> +<span>And peace likewíse among themselves,<br /></span> +<span>The bond of friendship, they fast should hold<br /></span> +<span>Without reproach in time of their life,<br /></span> +<span>And they to the teacher's lore should hearken,</span><span class="linenum">1210</span><br /> +<span>The Christian virtues that Cyriacus taught them,<br /></span> +<span>Clever in books. The office of bishop<br /></span> +<span>Was fairly made fast. From afar oft to him<br /></span> +<span>The lame, the sick, the crippled came,<br /></span> +<span>The halt, the wounded, the leprous and blind,</span><span class="linenum">1215</span><br /> +<span>The lowly, the sad; always there health<br /></span> +<span>At the hands of the bishop, healing, they found<br /></span> +<span>Ever for ever. Yet Helena gave him<br /></span> +<span>Treasures as presents, when ready she was<br /></span> +<span>For the journey home, and bade she then all</span><span class="linenum">1220</span><br /> +<span>In that kingdom of men who worshipped God,<br /></span> +<span>Men and women, that they should honor<br /></span> +<span>With mind and might that famous day,<br /></span> +<span>With thoughts of the heart, whereon holy rood<br /></span> +<span>Had béen discovered, greatest of trees,</span><span class="linenum">1225</span><br /> +<span>Of those which from earth ever sprang up<br /></span> +<span>Grown under leaves. Then spring was gone<br /></span> +<span>Except six nights ere coming of summer<br /></span> +<span>On the kalends of May. To each of those men<br /></span> +<span>Be hell's door shut, heaven's unclosed,</span><span class="linenum">1230</span><br /> +<span>Eternally opened the kingdom of angels,<br /></span> +<span>Joy without end, and their portion appointed<br /></span><a name="page41" id="page41"></a> +<span>Along with. Mary, who takes into mind<br /></span> +<span>That one most dear of festal days<br /></span> +<span>Of that rood under heaven, that which the mightiest</span><span class="linenum">1235</span><br /> +<span>Ruler of all with arm protected. <i>Finit</i>.<a name="FNanchor_51_51" id="FNanchor_51_51"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_51_51" class="fnanchor">[51]</a><br /></span> +</div></div> + + +<h3><a name="part1XV" id="part1XV">XV.</a></h3> + +<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> +<span>Thus old and death-ready in this frail house<br /></span> +<span>Word-craft I wove and wondrously framed it,<br /></span> +<span>Reflected at times and sifted my thought<br /></span> +<span>Closely at night. I knew not well</span><span class="linenum">1240</span><br /> +<span>The truth of the rood,<a name="FNanchor_52_52" id="FNanchor_52_52"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_52_52" class="fnanchor">[52]</a> ere wider knowledge<br /></span> +<span>Through glorious might into thought of my mind<br /></span> +<span>Wisdom revealed to me. I was stained with crimes,<br /></span> +<span>Fettered with sins, pained with sorrows,<br /></span> +<span>Bitterly bound, banefully vexed,</span><span class="linenum">1245</span><br /> +<span>Ere lore to me lent through light-bringing office<br /></span> +<span>For help to the agèd, his blameless gift<br /></span> +<span>The mighty King meted, and poured in my mind,<br /></span> +<span>Brightness disclosed, widened with time,<br /></span> +<span>Bone-house unbound, breast-lock unwound,</span><span class="linenum">1250</span><br /> +<span>Song-craft unlocked, which I joyfully used,<br /></span> +<span>With will, in the world. Of that tree of glory<br /></span> +<span>Often not once meditation I had,<br /></span> +<span>Ere that wonder I had revealed<br /></span> +<span>About that bright tree, as in books I found</span><span class="linenum">1255</span><br /> +<span>In course of events, in writings declared<br /></span> +<span>Of that beacon of victory. Ay till then was the man<br /></span> +<span>With care-waves oppressed, a nickering <i>pine-torch</i>[C],<br /></span> +<span>Though he in the mead-hall treasures received,<br /></span> +<span>Apples of gold.<a name="FNanchor_53_53" id="FNanchor_53_53"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_53_53" class="fnanchor">[53]</a> Mourned for his +<i>bow</i>[Y]</span><span class="linenum">1260</span><br /> +<span><a name="page42" id="page42"></a>The comrade of <i>sorrow</i>[N], suffered distress,<br /></span> +<span>His secret constrained, where before him the <i>horse</i>[E]<br /></span> +<span>Measured the mile-paths, with spirit ran<br /></span> +<span>Proud of his ornaments. <i>Hope</i>[W] is decreased,<br /></span> +<span>Joy, after years, youth is departed,</span><span class="linenum">1265</span><br /> +<span>The ancient pride. The <i>bison</i>[U] was once<br /></span> +<span>The gladness of youth. Now are the old days<br /></span> +<span>In course of time gone forever,<br /></span> +<span>Life-joy departed, as <i>ocean</i>[L] flows by,<br /></span> +<span>Waves hurried along. To each one is <i>wealth</i><a name="FNanchor_54_54" id="FNanchor_54_54"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_54_54" class="fnanchor">[54]</a>[F]</span><span class="linenum">1270</span><br /> +<span>Fleeting 'neath heaven, treasures of earth<br /></span> +<span>Pass 'neath the clouds likest to wind,<br /></span> +<span>When before men it mounts up aloud,<br /></span> +<span>Roams 'round the clouds, raging rushes,<br /></span> +<span>And then all at once silent becomes,</span><span class="linenum">1275</span><br /> +<span>In narrow prison closely confined,<br /></span> +<span>Strongly repressed. So passes this world,<br /></span> +<span>And likewise besides what things<a name="FNanchor_55_55" id="FNanchor_55_55"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_55_55" class="fnanchor">[55]</a> have been<br /></span> +<span>In it produced flame will consume,<br /></span> +<span>When the Lord himself judgment will seek</span><span class="linenum">1280</span><br /> +<span>With host of angels. Every one there<br /></span> +<span>Of speech-bearing men the truth shall hear<br /></span> +<span>Of every deed through mouth of the Judge,<br /></span> +<span>And likewise of words the penalty pay<br /></span> +<span>Of all that with folly were spoken before,</span><span class="linenum">1285</span><br /> +<span>Of daring thoughts. Then parts into three<br /></span> +<span>Into clutch of fire each one of folk,<br /></span> +<span>Of those that have dwelt in course of time<br /></span> +<span>Upon the broad earth. The righteous shall be<br /></span> +<span>Upmost-in flame, host of the blessed,</span><span class="linenum">1290</span><br /> +<span>Crowd eager for glory, as they may bear it,<br /></span> +<span><a name="page43" id="page43"></a>And without torment easily suffer,<br /></span> +<span>Band of the brave. For them shall be moderate<br /></span> +<span>The brightness of flame,<a name="FNanchor_56_56" id="FNanchor_56_56"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_56_56" class="fnanchor">[56]</a> as it shall be easiest,<br /></span> +<span>Softest for them. The sinful shall be,</span><span class="linenum">1295</span><br /> +<span>Those spotted with evil, compressed in the middle,<br /></span> +<span>Men sad-in-mind, within the hot waves<br /></span> +<span>Smothered with smoke. The third part shall be,<br /></span> +<span>Accursèd sinners, in the flood's abyss,<br /></span> +<span>False folk-haters, fastened in flame</span><span class="linenum">1300</span><br /> +<span>For deeds of old, gang of the godless<br /></span> +<span>In grip of the gledes. To God never more<br /></span> +<span>From that place of torment come they in mind,<br /></span> +<span>To the King of glory, but théy shall be cast<br /></span> +<span>From that terrible fire to the bottom of hell,</span><span class="linenum">1305</span><br /> +<span>The workers of woe. To the [other] two parts<br /></span> +<span>It will be unlike. They may angels' Lord,<br /></span> +<span>Victories' God, see. Théy shall be cleansed,<br /></span> +<span>Sundered from sins, as smelted gold,<br /></span> +<span>That is in the flame from every spot</span><span class="linenum">1310</span><br /> +<span>Through fire of the oven thoroughly cleansed,<br /></span> +<span>Freed and refined. So shall each of those men<br /></span> +<span>Be freed and made pure from every sin,<br /></span> +<span>From heavy crimes through fire of that doom.<br /></span> +<span>Then afterwards théy may peace enjoy,</span><span class="linenum">1315</span><br /> +<span>Eternal bliss. To them angels' Warden<br /></span> +<span>Shall be mild and gentle, for that théy every evil<br /></span> +<span>Despised, sins' work, and to Son of their Maker<br /></span> +<span>They called with words. Hence in beauty they shine now<br /></span> +<span>Like to the angels, the heritage have</span><span class="linenum">1320</span><br /> +<span>Of the King of glory for ever and ever. Amen.<br /></span> +<a name="page44" id="page44"></a> +</div></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_1_1" id="Footnote_1_1"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_1_1">[1]</a> Prince's.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_2_2" id="Footnote_2_2"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_2_2">[2]</a> MS. '<i>Huns</i>,' +but Z. reads '<i>Hugs</i>.' <i>Cf.</i> W.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_3_3" id="Footnote_3_3"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_3_3">[3]</a> 'O'er land of Burgundians,' Gn.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_4_4" id="Footnote_4_4"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_4_4">[4]</a> Z. has no point, W. puts (;), Gn. (.)</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_5_5" id="Footnote_5_5"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_5_5">[5]</a> 'Hurried,' Z.<sup>3</sup></p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_6_6" id="Footnote_6_6"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_6_6">[6]</a> 'He,' W.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_7_7" id="Footnote_7_7"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_7_7">[7]</a> 'Which,' Z.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_8_8" id="Footnote_8_8"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_8_8">[8]</a> 'In the terrible danger,' Gn.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_9_9" id="Footnote_9_9"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_9_9">[9]</a> Lit. 'in like manner,' adv.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_10_10" id="Footnote_10_10"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_10_10">[10]</a> Add 'at the work.'</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_11_11" id="Footnote_11_11"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_11_11">[11]</a> 'Diminished,' Gn.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_12_12" id="Footnote_12_12"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_12_12">[12]</a> <i>i.e.</i>, +with precious stones. Kr. reads '(rattled strong shields).'</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_13_13" id="Footnote_13_13"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_13_13">[13]</a> 'Gold,' Kr. +'Lord of the house,' Gn. <i>Cf.</i> W.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_14_14" id="Footnote_14_14"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_14_14">[14]</a> The Bishop of Rome.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_15_15" id="Footnote_15_15"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_15_15">[15]</a> Lit., 'smiths of lore.'</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_16_16" id="Footnote_16_16"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_16_16">[16]</a> Z. supposes +<i>lacuna</i> of one verse; W. thinks it unnecessary.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_17_17" id="Footnote_17_17"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_17_17">[17]</a> Lit., 'the woman.'</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_18_18" id="Footnote_18_18"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_18_18">[18]</a> Lit., 'to the sea,' +or 'sea-journey.'</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_19_19" id="Footnote_19_19"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_19_19">[19]</a> A.-S. form retained +for the sake of the accent and alliteration.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_20_20" id="Footnote_20_20"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_20_20">[20]</a> Lit., 'kinswoman.' +The Elizabethan 'Kesar' would preserve the alliteration +in this line.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_21_21" id="Footnote_21_21"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_21_21">[21]</a> Gn. and Z. W. omits.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_22_22" id="Footnote_22_22"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_22_22">[22]</a> Psalms xvi. 8, 9.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_23_23" id="Footnote_23_23"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_23_23">[23]</a> Isaiah i. 2, 3.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_24_24" id="Footnote_24_24"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_24_24">[24]</a> Gn., Z., W.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_25_25" id="Footnote_25_25"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_25_25">[25]</a> So W. 'Wrongs have +committed,' Gm., Gn. and Z. [?]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_26_26" id="Footnote_26_26"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_26_26">[26]</a> W.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_27_27" id="Footnote_27_27"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_27_27">[27]</a> Add 'after that.'</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_28_28" id="Footnote_28_28"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_28_28">[28]</a> <i>Lacuna</i> in MS., emended by Gn.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_29_29" id="Footnote_29_29"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_29_29">[29]</a> <i>i.e.</i>, 'defence, protector.'</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_30_30" id="Footnote_30_30"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_30_30">[30]</a> Lit., 'under the lap (or bosom) of sins.'</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_31_31" id="Footnote_31_31"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_31_31">[31]</a> MS. <i>rex</i> (Latin?), +Z.; 'oppression of care' (<i>cearces</i>), Gn.; 'of hunger' +(<i>ceaces</i>), Gm.; 'of smoke' (<i>rêces</i>), Schubert; <i>rex</i> = <i>cyninges</i>, +Sievers and W.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_32_32" id="Footnote_32_32"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_32_32">[32]</a> Z.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_33_33" id="Footnote_33_33"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_33_33">[33]</a> Or, 'war,' Gn.; +'further oft,' Gm.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_34_34" id="Footnote_34_34"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_34_34">[34]</a> No <i>lacuna</i> in +MS. Gn.<sup>1</sup> inserted one line, but Gn.<sup>2</sup> one word (<i>fêonda</i>), +which W. prefers. Text as Z. (<i>fêondes</i>), which Sievers approves.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_35_35" id="Footnote_35_35"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_35_35">[35]</a> 'Mindful,' Gm. and Gn.; 'suffering,' Z. [?].</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_36_36" id="Footnote_36_36"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_36_36">[36]</a> Referring to the sword.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_37_37" id="Footnote_37_37"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_37_37">[37]</a> Gn., or 'foul,' Z.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_38_38" id="Footnote_38_38"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_38_38">[38]</a> Lit., 'joy-wood.'</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_39_39" id="Footnote_39_39"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_39_39">[39]</a> Lit., 'knee.'</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_40_40" id="Footnote_40_40"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_40_40">[40]</a> So Z.; 'rebellion for +this,' W. See W.'s note.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_41_41" id="Footnote_41_41"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_41_41">[41]</a> Julian the Apostate, suggests Gn.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_42_42" id="Footnote_42_42"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_42_42">[42]</a> 'That,' relative, though +it may be taken as conjunction, as Z.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_43_43" id="Footnote_43_43"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_43_43">[43]</a> So Z.; 'The noble +wood,' Gm. and Gn.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_44_44" id="Footnote_44_44"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_44_44">[44]</a> Latin, <i>rex</i>.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_45_45" id="Footnote_45_45"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_45_45">[45]</a> So Z.; 'With pomp of array,' Gn.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_46_46" id="Footnote_46_46"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_46_46">[46]</a> Lit., 'coming.'</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_47_47" id="Footnote_47_47"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_47_47">[47]</a> Same expression as in 1054.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_48_48" id="Footnote_48_48"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_48_48">[48]</a> Lit., 'will-giver,' <i>i.e.</i>, the queen.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_49_49" id="Footnote_49_49"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_49_49">[49]</a> <i>i.e.</i>, her ornaments of gold.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_50_50" id="Footnote_50_50"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_50_50">[50]</a> Gn.'s emendation.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_51_51" id="Footnote_51_51"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_51_51">[51]</a> Here properly ends +the legend of the Finding of the Cross. The last +canto contains reflections of the poet.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_52_52" id="Footnote_52_52"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_52_52">[52]</a> Gn.'s emendation.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_53_53" id="Footnote_53_53"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_53_53">[53]</a> Lit.,'appled gold.'</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_54_54" id="Footnote_54_54"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_54_54">[54]</a> The words in italics +are the names of the runes that make up the +name CYNEWULF. This artificial use of words makes the interpretation +obscure, and scholars differ about it.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_55_55" id="Footnote_55_55"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_55_55">[55]</a> Or, 'those who.'</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_56_56" id="Footnote_56_56"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_56_56">[56]</a> Gn., Z.</p></div> + + + +<h2><a name="part2" id="part2">JUDITH.</a></h2> + +<h3><a name="part2IX" id="part2IX">IX.</a></h3> + +<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> +<span>* * * * * * * *<br /></span> +<span>[The glorious Creator's]<a name="FNanchor_1_58" id="FNanchor_1_58"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_1_58" class="fnanchor">[1]</a> gifts doubted she [not]<br /></span> +<span>Upón this wide earth; then found she there ready<br /></span> +<span>Help from the mighty Prince, when she most need did have<br /></span> +<span>Of grace from the highest Judge, that her 'gainst the greatest terror<br /></span> +<span>The Lord of Creation should shield. That Father in heaven to her<br /></span> +<span>The Glorious-in-mind did grant, for thát firm faith she had<br /></span> +<span>Ín the Almighty ever. Then heard I that Holofernes<br /></span> +<span>Wine-summons eagerly wrought, and with all wonders a glorious<br /></span> +<span>Banquet had hé prepared; to thát bade the prince of men<br /></span> +<span>All his noblest thanes. Thát with mickle haste</span><span class="linenum">10</span><br /> +<span>Did the warriors-with-shields perform; came to the mighty chief<br /></span> +<span>The people's leaders going. Ón the fourth day was that<br /></span> +<span>After that Judith, cunning in mind,<br /></span> +<span>The elf-sheen virgin, him first had sought.<br /></span> +<a name="page45" id="page45"></a> +</div></div> + +<h3><a name="part2X" id="part2X">X.</a></h3> + +<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> +<span>They then at the feast proceeded to sit,</span><span class="linenum">15</span><br /> +<span>The proud to the wine-drinking, all his comrades-in-ill,<br /></span> +<span>Bold mailèd-warriors. There were lofty beakers<br /></span> +<span>Oft borne along the benches, alsó were cups and flagons<br /></span> +<span>Full to the hall-sitters borne. The fated partook of them,<br /></span> +<span>Brave warriors-with-shields, though the mighty weened not of it,</span><span class="linenum">20</span><br /> +<span>Awful lord of earls. Thén was Holofernes,<br /></span> +<span>Gold-friend of men, full of wine-joy:<br /></span> +<span>He laughed and clamored, shouted and dinned,<br /></span> +<span>That children of men from afar might hear<br /></span> +<span>How the strong-minded both stormed and yelled,</span><span class="linenum">25</span><br /> +<span>Moody and mead-drunken, often admonished<br /></span> +<span>The sitters-on-benches to bear themselves<a name="FNanchor_2_59" id="FNanchor_2_59"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_2_59" class="fnanchor">[2]</a> well.<br /></span> +<span>Thus did the hateful one during all day<br /></span> +<span>His liege-men [loyal] keep plying with wine,<br /></span> +<span>Stout-hearted giver of treasure, untíl they lay in a swoon,</span><span class="linenum">30</span><br /> +<span>He drenched all his nobles [with drink], as if they were slain in death,<br /></span> +<span>Deprived<a name="FNanchor_3_60" id="FNanchor_3_60"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_3_60" class="fnanchor">[3]</a> of each one of goods. Thus bade the prince of men<br /></span> +<span>The sitters-in-hall to serve, untíl to children of men<br /></span> +<span>The darkening night drew nigh. He bade then, filled with hate,<br /></span> +<span>The blessed maiden with haste to fetch</span><span class="linenum">35</span><br /> +<span>To his bed of rest, laden with jewels,<br /></span> +<span><a name="page46" id="page46"></a>Adorned with rings. They quickly performed,<br /></span> +<span>The attendant thanes, what their lord them bade,<br /></span> +<span>Mailed-warriors' prince; like a flash they stepped<br /></span> +<span>Into the guest-room, where they Judith</span><span class="linenum">40</span><br /> +<span>Wise-minded found, and quickly then<br /></span> +<span>The warriors-with-shields began to lead<br /></span> +<span>The glorious maid to the lofty tent<br /></span> +<span>Where the mighty himself always<a name="FNanchor_4_61" id="FNanchor_4_61"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_4_61" class="fnanchor">[4]</a> rested<br /></span> +<span>By night within, to the Saviour hateful,</span><span class="linenum">45</span><br /> +<span>Holofernes. There wás an all-golden<br /></span> +<span>Beautiful fly-net around the folk-warrior's<br /></span> +<span>Bed suspended, só that the hateful<br /></span> +<span>Was able to look through, the chief of warriors,<br /></span> +<span>Upon each one that therein came</span><span class="linenum">50</span><br /> +<span>Of the sons of heroes, and on him no one<br /></span> +<span>Of the race of men, unless the proud some one<br /></span> +<span>Of the strong-in-war bade to him nearer<br /></span> +<span>Of warriors for counsel to come. They then to him at rest brought<br /></span> +<span>Quickly the cunning woman; went then the stout-in-heart</span><span class="linenum">55</span><br /> +<span>The men their lord to tell that the holy woman was<br /></span> +<span>Brought to his chamber-tent. The famous then in mind<br /></span> +<span>Was glad, the ruler of cities; he thought the beautiful maiden<br /></span> +<span>With spot and stain to defile: that Judge of glory would not<br /></span> +<span>Allow, the Keeper of honor, but him from that deed restrained</span><span class="linenum">60</span><br /> +<span>The Lord, the Ruler of hosts. Went then the devilish one,<br /></span><a name="page47" id="page47"></a> +<span>The wanton [warrior-prince],<a name="FNanchor_5_62" id="FNanchor_5_62"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_5_62" class="fnanchor">[5]</a> with [mickle] band of men,<br /></span> +<span>The baleful his bed to seek, where hé his life should lose<br /></span> +<span>Quickly within one night; he had then his end attained<a name="FNanchor_6_63" id="FNanchor_6_63"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_6_63" class="fnanchor">[6]</a><br /></span> +<span>On earth ungentle [end], such as before he wrought for,</span><span class="linenum">65</span><br /> +<span>The mighty prince of men, while ín this world he was,<br /></span> +<span>While he dwelt under roof of the clouds. Then fell so drunk with wine<br /></span> +<span>The mighty [chief] on his bed, as if he knew no rede<br /></span> +<span>Within his place of wit; the warriors stepped<br /></span> +<span>Oút from the chamber with mickle haste,</span><span class="linenum">70</span><br /> +<span>The wine-filled men, whó the oath-breaker,<br /></span> +<span>Hateful folk-hater, had led to his bed<br /></span> +<span>For the very last time. Then was the Saviour's<br /></span> +<span>Glorious maiden earnestly mindful<br /></span> +<span>How she the terrible most easily might</span><span class="linenum">75</span><br /> +<span>Of life deprive before the lustful,<br /></span> +<span>The wanton, awoke. The wreathed-locked took then,<br /></span> +<span>The Creator's handmaid, a sharp-edged sword<br /></span> +<span>Hardened by war-strokes [?],<a name="FNanchor_7_64" id="FNanchor_7_64"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_7_64" class="fnanchor">[7]</a> and drew from its sheath<br /></span> +<span>With hér right hand; then Keeper of heaven</span><span class="linenum">80</span><br /> +<span>By name she gan name, Saviour of all<br /></span> +<span>Dwellers-in-th' world, and this word she spake:<br /></span> +<span>"Thee, God of Creation, and Spirit of Comfort,<br /></span> +<span>Son of the Almighty, will I [now] pray<br /></span> +<span>For thine own mercy to me in my need,</span><span class="linenum">85</span><br /> +<span>Trinity's Glory. To me greatly now then<br /></span> +<span><a name="page48" id="page48"></a>My heart is inflamed, and my mind is sad,<br /></span> +<span>Sorely with sorrows oppressed; grant, Lord of Heaven, to me<br /></span> +<span>Victory and faith without fear, that I with this sword may be able<br /></span> +<span>To hew down this dealer of murder; grant [too] my safety to me,</span><span class="linenum">90</span><br /> +<span>Strong-hearted Leader of men; ne'er in this world had I<br /></span> +<span>Of thy mercy more urgent need: avenge now, mighty Lord,<br /></span> +<span>Glorious Giver of honor, that I am so angry in mind,<br /></span> +<span>So heated within my breast." Hér then the highest Judge<br /></span> +<span>Quickly with courage inspired, as doth he [ever] each one</span><span class="linenum">95</span><br /> +<span>Of dwellers here [upon earth], who him for help to them seek<br /></span> +<span>With rede and righteous belief. Then roomy in mind she became,<br /></span> +<span>The holy one's hope was renewed; then took she the heathen man<br /></span> +<span>Fast by his own [long] hair, with hands him towards her she drew<br /></span> +<span>With marks of contempt, and the baleful one</span><span class="linenum">100</span><br /> +<span>With cunning laid down, the loathsome man,<br /></span> +<span>As she the accursèd most easily might<br /></span> +<span>Wield at her will. Struck then the curly-locked<br /></span> +<span>The hostile foe with shining<a name="FNanchor_8_65" id="FNanchor_8_65"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_8_65" class="fnanchor">[8]</a> sword,<br /></span> +<span>The hateful-minded, that half-way she cut</span><span class="linenum">105</span><br /> +<span>The [evil one's] neck, that he lay in a swoon,<br /></span> +<span>Drunken and wounded. Not yet was he dead,<br /></span><a name="page49" id="page49"></a> +<span>Thoroughly lifeless; struck she then earnestly,<br /></span> +<span>The maiden brave-minded, a second time<br /></span> +<span>The heathen hound, that his head rolled off</span><span class="linenum">110</span><br /> +<span>Forth on the floor: the foul corpse lay<br /></span> +<span>Lifeless behind, went the spirit elsewhere<br /></span> +<span>Beneath the deep earth, and there was disgraced,<br /></span> +<span>In torment bound ever thereafter,<br /></span> +<span>Surrounded with serpents, with tortures encompassed,</span><span class="linenum">115</span><br /> +<span>Strongly enchained in the fire of hell<br /></span> +<span>After his death. He need never hope,<br /></span> +<span>Enveloped with darkness, that thence he may go<br /></span> +<span>Out of that worm-hall, but there shall he dwell<br /></span> +<span>Ever for ever without end henceforth</span><span class="linenum">120</span><br /> +<span>In that dark home, of hope-joys deprived.<br /></span> +</div></div> + + +<h3><a name="part2XI" id="part2XI">XI.</a></h3> + +<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> +<span>Then had she gained glorious honor,<br /></span> +<span>Judith in war, as God to her granted,<br /></span> +<span>The Ruler of Heaven, who gave to her victory.<br /></span> +<span>The cunning maid then quickly brought</span><span class="linenum">125</span><br /> +<span>The army-leader's head so bloody<br /></span> +<span>In that [very] vessel in which her attendant,<br /></span> +<span>The fair-faced woman, food for them both,<br /></span> +<span>In virtues renowned, thither had brought,<br /></span> +<span>And it then so gory to her gave in hand,</span><span class="linenum">130</span><br /> +<span>To the thoughtful-in-mind to bear to their home,<br /></span> +<span>Judith to her maid. Went they forth thence,<br /></span> +<span>The women both in courage bold,<br /></span> +<span>Until they had come, proud in their minds,<br /></span> +<span>The women triumphant, out from the army,</span><span class="linenum">135</span><br /> +<span>So that they plainly were able to see<br /></span> +<span>Of that beautiful city the walls [fair] shine,<br /></span><a name="page50" id="page50"></a> +<span>Béthulía. Then jewel-decked théy<br /></span> +<span>Upon the foot-path hastened to go,<br /></span> +<span>Until glad-minded they had arrived</span><span class="linenum">140</span><br /> +<span>At the gate of the wall. The warriors sat,<br /></span> +<span>The watching men were keeping ward<br /></span> +<span>Within that fortress, as before to the folk,<br /></span> +<span>Sad in their minds, Judith had bidden,<br /></span> +<span>The cunning maiden, when she went on her journey,</span><span class="linenum">145</span><br /> +<span>The stout-hearted woman. Then again was she come,<br /></span> +<span>Dear to her people, and then quickly ordered<br /></span> +<span>The wise-minded woman some one of the men<br /></span> +<span>To come to meet her from out the wide city,<br /></span> +<span>And hér in haste to admit within</span><span class="linenum">150</span><br /> +<span>Through the gate of the wall, and this word she spake<br /></span> +<span>To the victor-folk: "To you can I say<br /></span> +<span>A thought-worthy<a name="FNanchor_9_66" id="FNanchor_9_66"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_9_66" class="fnanchor">[9]</a> thing, that no longer ye need<br /></span> +<span>Mourn in your minds: your Creator is kind,<br /></span> +<span>Glory of kings: that ís become known</span><span class="linenum">155</span><br /> +<span>Wide through the world, that to you is success<br /></span> +<span>Glorious at hand, and honor is granted<br /></span> +<span>For [all] those sorrows which long ye suffered."<br /></span> +<span>Glad then were they, the dwellers-in-borough,<br /></span> +<span>After they heard how the holy one spake</span><span class="linenum">160</span><br /> +<span>O'er the high wall. The host was in joy.<br /></span> +<span>To the fortress-gate the people hastened,<br /></span> +<span>Men, women together, in troops and heaps,<br /></span> +<span>In crowds and throngs, hurried and ran<br /></span> +<span>To meet the Lord's maid by thousands and thousands,</span><span class="linenum">165</span><br /> +<span>Both old and young: to each one became<br /></span> +<span>Of men in the mead-city his mind rejoiced,<br /></span> +<span>After they knew that Judith was come<br /></span><a name="page51" id="page51"></a> +<span>Again to her home, and then in haste<br /></span> +<span>With reverence théy allowed her to enter.</span><span class="linenum">170</span><br /> +<span>Then bade the clever, with gold adorned,<br /></span> +<span>Her servant-maid, thoughtful-in-mind,<br /></span> +<span>The army-leader's head to uncover,<br /></span> +<span>And it as a proof bloody to show<br /></span> +<span>To the city-folk how she speeded in war.</span><span class="linenum">175</span><br /> +<span>Then spake the noble one to all the folk:<br /></span> +<span>"Here ye may clearly, victory-blessed warriors,<br /></span> +<span>Chiefs of the people, upón the most hateful<br /></span> +<span>Heathen hero's head fix your gaze,<br /></span> +<span>On Holofernes deprived of life,</span><span class="linenum">180</span><br /> +<span>Who chiefest of men wrought murders for us,<br /></span> +<span>Sorest sorrows, and that yet more<br /></span> +<span>Would he increase: but God him granted not<br /></span> +<span>A longer life, that hé with woes<br /></span> +<span>Might still afflict us. Of life I deprived him</span><span class="linenum">185</span><br /> +<span>By help of God. Now I every man<br /></span> +<span>Of these city-dwellers will [earnestly] pray,<br /></span> +<span>Of shield-bearing warriors, that ye yourselves quickly<br /></span> +<span>Hasten to fight; when the God of creation,<br /></span> +<span>The glorious King, shall send from the east</span><span class="linenum">190</span><br /> +<span>Bright beams of light, bear forth your shields,<br /></span> +<span>Boards before breasts and coats-of-mail,<br /></span> +<span>Bright helmets [too] among the foes,<br /></span> +<span>To fell the folk-leaders with shining swords,<br /></span> +<span>The fated chiefs. Your foes are now</span><span class="linenum">195</span><br /> +<span>Condemned to death, and ye glory shall gain,<br /></span> +<span>Honor in battle, as to you hath betokened<br /></span> +<span>The mighty Lord through mine own hand."<br /></span> +<span>Then the band of the brave was quickly prepared,<br /></span> +<span>Of the bold for battle; stepped out the valiant</span><span class="linenum">200</span><br /> +<span>Men and comrades, bore their banners,<br /></span> +<span>Went forth to fight straight on their way<br /></span><a name="page52" id="page52"></a> +<span>The heroes 'neath helmets from the holy city<br /></span> +<span>At the dawn itself; shields made a din,<br /></span> +<span>Loudly resounded. Thereat laughed the lank</span><span class="linenum">205</span><br /> +<span>Wolf in the wood, and the raven wan,<br /></span> +<span>Fowl greedy for slaughter: both of them knew<br /></span> +<span>That for them the warriors thought to provide<br /></span> +<span>Their fill on the fated; and flew on their track<br /></span> +<span>The dewy-winged eagle eager for prey,</span><span class="linenum">210</span><br /> +<span>The dusky-coated sang his war-song,<br /></span> +<span>The crooked-beaked. Stepped forth the warriors,<br /></span> +<span>The heroes for battle with boards protected,<br /></span> +<span>With hollow shields, who awhile before<br /></span> +<span>The foreign-folk's reproach endured,</span><span class="linenum">215</span><br /> +<span>The heathens' scorn; fiercely was thát<br /></span> +<span>At the ash-spear's play to them all repaid,<br /></span> +<span>[All] the Assyrians, after the Hebrews<br /></span> +<span>Under their banners had [boldly] advanced<br /></span> +<span>To the army-camps. They bravely then</span><span class="linenum">220</span><br /> +<span>Forthright let fly showers of arrows,<br /></span> +<span>Of battle-adders, óut from the horn-bows,<br /></span> +<span>Of strongly-made shafts; stormed they aloud,<br /></span> +<span>The cruel warriors, sent forth their spears<br /></span> +<span>Among the brave; the heroes were angry,</span><span class="linenum">225</span><br /> +<span>The dwellers-in-land, with the loathéd race;<br /></span> +<span>The stern-minded stepped, the stout-in-heart,<br /></span> +<span>Rudely awakened their ancient foes<br /></span> +<span>Weary from mead; with hands drew forth<br /></span> +<span>The men from the sheaths the brightly-marked swords</span><span class="linenum">230</span><br /> +<span>Most choice in their edges, eagerly struck<br /></span> +<span>Of the [host of] Assyrians the battle-warriors,<br /></span> +<span>The hostile-minded; not one they spared<br /></span> +<span>Of the army-folk, nor low nor high<br /></span> +<span>Of living men, whom théy might subdue.</span><span class="linenum">235</span><br /> +<a name="page53" id="page53"></a> +</div></div> + + +<h3><a name="part2XII" id="part2XII">XII.</a></h3> + +<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> +<span>Thus then the thanes in the morning-hours<br /></span> +<span>Pressed on the strangers unceasinglý,<br /></span> +<span>Until they perceived, those who were hostile,<br /></span> +<span>The army-folk's chiefest leaders,<br /></span> +<span>That upón them sword-strokes mighty bestowed</span><span class="linenum">240</span><br /> +<span>The Hebrew men. They thát in words<br /></span> +<span>To their most noted chiefs of the people<br /></span> +<span>Went to announce, waked helmeted warriors<br /></span> +<span>And to thém with fear the dread news told,<br /></span> +<span>To the weary-from-mead the morning-terror,</span><span class="linenum">245</span><br /> +<span>The hateful sword-play. Then learnt I that quickly<br /></span> +<span>The slaughter-fated men aroused from sleep<br /></span> +<span>Ánd to the baleful's sleeping-bower<br /></span> +<span>The saddened<a name="FNanchor_10_67" id="FNanchor_10_67"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_10_67" class="fnanchor">[10]</a> men pressed ón in crowds,<br /></span> +<span>To Holofernes: they only were thinking</span><span class="linenum">250</span><br /> +<span>To their own lord to make known the fight,<br /></span> +<span>Ere terror on him should take its seat,<br /></span> +<span>The might of the Hebrews. They all imagined<br /></span> +<span>That the prince of men and the handsome maid<br /></span> +<span>In the beautiful tent were [still] together,</span><span class="linenum">255</span><br /> +<span>Judith the noble and the lustful one,<br /></span> +<span>Dreadful and fierce; though no earl there was<br /></span> +<span>Whó the warrior durst [then] awake,<br /></span> +<span>Or durst discover how the helmeted warrior<br /></span> +<span>With the holy maid had passed his time,</span><span class="linenum">260</span><br /> +<span>The Creator's handmaid. The force approached,<br /></span> +<span>The folk of the Hebrews, courageously fought<br /></span> +<span>With hard battle-arms, fiercely repaid<br /></span> +<span>Their former fights with shining<a name="FNanchor_11_68" id="FNanchor_11_68"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_11_68" class="fnanchor">[11]</a> swords,<br /></span> +<span>The old-time grudge; was óf the Assyrians</span><span class="linenum">265</span><br /> +<a name="page54" id="page54"></a> +<span>By thát day's work the glory diminished,<br /></span> +<span>The pride brought low. The warriors stood<br /></span> +<span>'Round their prince's tent strongly excited,<br /></span> +<span>Gloomy in mind. They then all together<br /></span> +<span>Began to groan,<a name="FNanchor_12_69" id="FNanchor_12_69"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_12_69" class="fnanchor">[12]</a> to cry aloud</span><span class="linenum">270</span><br /> +<span>And gnash with their teeth,—afar from God,—<br /></span> +<span>Showing their anger; 'twas the end of their glory,<br /></span> +<span>Of joy and valor. The earls were thinking<br /></span> +<span>To awaken their lord; they did not succeed.<br /></span> +<span>Then at last and too late was one so bold</span><span class="linenum">275</span><br /> +<span>Of the battle-warriors that to the bower-tent<br /></span> +<span>He daringly ventured, since need him compelled:<br /></span> +<span>Found he then on the bed lying deadly-pale<br /></span> +<span>His [own] gold-giver of breath bereft,<br /></span> +<span>Of life deprived. Then quickly he fell</span><span class="linenum">280</span><br /> +<span>Astounded to earth, gan tear his hair,<br /></span> +<span>Excited in mind, and his garments too,<br /></span> +<span>And this word he spake to the warriors [brave],<br /></span> +<span>Who saddened there were standing without:<br /></span> +<span>"Here is displayed our own destruction,</span><span class="linenum">285</span><br /> +<span>The future betokened, that it is to the time<br /></span> +<span>Now amongst men<a name="FNanchor_13_70" id="FNanchor_13_70"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_13_70" class="fnanchor">[13]</a> almost arrived,<br /></span> +<span>When wé our lives shall lose together,<br /></span> +<span>In battle perish: here lies with sword hewn<br /></span> +<span>Our lord beheaded." They then sad-in-mind</span><span class="linenum">290</span><br /> +<span>Threw down their weapons and sorrowful went<br /></span> +<span>To hasten in flight. They fought on their tracks,<br /></span> +<span>The mighty folk, till the greatest part<br /></span> +<span>Of the army lay, in battle struck down,<br /></span> +<span>On the victor-plain, hewn down with swords,</span><span class="linenum">295</span><br /> +<span><a name="page55" id="page55"></a>To wolves for pleasure, and to slaughter-greedy<br /></span> +<span>Fowls for a joy. Those who lived fled<br /></span> +<span>The shields of their foes.<a name="FNanchor_14_71" id="FNanchor_14_71"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_14_71" class="fnanchor">[14]</a> Went on their tracks<br /></span> +<span>The Hebrews' host, honored with victory,<br /></span> +<span>With glory ennobled; them took the Lord God</span><span class="linenum">300</span><br /> +<span>Fairly to help, the Lord Almighty.<br /></span> +<span>They bravely then with shining swords,<br /></span> +<span>Stout-hearted heroes, a war-path wrought<br /></span> +<span>Through heaps of their foes, hewed down their shields,<br /></span> +<span>Cut through their phalanx: the warriors were</span><span class="linenum">305</span><br /> +<span>Enraged in battle, the Hebrew men;<br /></span> +<span>The thanes at that time were much delighted<br /></span> +<span>At the combat with spears. Here fell in the dust<br /></span> +<span>The highest part of the chiefest number<br /></span> +<span>Óf the Assyrians' princely nobility,</span><span class="linenum">310</span><br /> +<span>Of the hateful race; very few came<br /></span> +<span>Alive to their homes. The nobly-bold turned,<br /></span> +<span>Warriors retiring, among the slaughtered,<br /></span> +<span>The smoking corpses; it was time to take<br /></span> +<span>For the dwellers-in-land from the loathsome ones,</span><span class="linenum">315</span><br /> +<span>Their ancient foes deprived of life,<br /></span> +<span>The gory booty, the shining trappings,<br /></span> +<span>Shields and broad swords, brown-colored helmets,<br /></span> +<span>Precious treasures. Gloriously had they<br /></span> +<span>On thát folk-place their foes overcome,</span><span class="linenum">320</span><br /> +<span>The defenders of home their ancient foes<br /></span> +<span>With swords put-to-sleep: behind them rested<br /></span> +<span>Those who in life were most hateful to them<br /></span> +<span>Of living races. Then all the people,<br /></span> +<span>Of tribes most renowned, for one month's space,</span><span class="linenum">325</span><br /> +<span>The proud twisted-locked, bore and carried<br /></span> +<span>To that bright city, Bethulia [named],<br /></span><a name="page56" id="page56"></a> +<span>Helmets and hip-swords, hoary byrnies,<br /></span> +<span>War-trappings of men adorned with gold,<br /></span> +<span>More precious treasures than any man</span><span class="linenum">330</span><br /> +<span>Of the cunning-in-mind may be able to tell,<br /></span> +<span>All that the warriors with might had won,<br /></span> +<span>The bold under banners on the battle-place<br /></span> +<span>By means of Judith's [most] clever lore,<br /></span> +<span>The moody<a name="FNanchor_15_72" id="FNanchor_15_72"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_15_72" class="fnanchor">[15]</a> maid's. As meed for her</span><span class="linenum">335</span><br /> +<span>From that expedition, they brought for herself,<br /></span> +<span>The spear-strong earls, of Holofernes<br /></span> +<span>The sword and gory helm, likewíse the byrnie broad,<br /></span> +<span>Adorned with reddish gold, all that the warrior-chief,<br /></span> +<span>The brave, of treasure had, or individual wealth,</span><span class="linenum">340</span><br /> +<span>Of rings and jewels bright; thát to the lady fair,<br /></span> +<span>The wise-in-mind, gave théy. For all that Judith said<br /></span> +<span>Glory to the Lord of hosts, who honor to her gave,<br /></span> +<span>Fame in realm of earth, and meed in heaven too,<br /></span> +<span>Reward in the glory of heaven, because true faith she had</span><span class="linenum">345</span><br /> +<span>Ín the Almighty ever; now at last she doubted not<br /></span> +<span>Of the meed which long she yearned for. For that to the dear Lord be<br /></span> +<span>Glory for ever and ever, who made both wind and air,<br /></span> +<span>The heavens and roomy lands, likewíse the rushing streams,<br /></span> +<span>And joys of firmament too by means of his mercy mild.</span><span class="linenum">350</span><br /> +<a name="page57" id="page57"></a> +</div></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_1_58" id="Footnote_1_58"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_1_58">[1]</a> Gn.'s emendation to fill <i>lacuna</i> of MS.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_2_59" id="Footnote_2_59"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_2_59">[2]</a> 'Loudly carouse,' Kr. and C.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_3_60" id="Footnote_3_60"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_3_60">[3]</a> 'Gorged with,' Kr. and C.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_4_61" id="Footnote_4_61"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_4_61">[4]</a> Or, 'after feast.'</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_5_62" id="Footnote_5_62"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_5_62">[5]</a> 'King,' Gn. +and Kr., but <i>guðfreca</i> suits the verse better than <i>cyning</i>, +and even that is not metrically sufficient to fill the <i>lacuna</i>.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_6_63" id="Footnote_6_63"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_6_63">[6]</a> Lit., 'awaited.'</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_7_64" id="Footnote_7_64"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_7_64">[7]</a> So Gn.? 'Scouring,' Sw.?, Kr.?, C.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_8_65" id="Footnote_8_65"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_8_65">[8]</a> 'Hostile,' Sw.?</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_9_66" id="Footnote_9_66"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_9_66">[9]</a> 'Thank-worthy,' Kr.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_10_67" id="Footnote_10_67"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_10_67">[10]</a> So Sw.; 'weary in mind,' Gn., Kr., C.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_11_68" id="Footnote_11_68"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_11_68">[11]</a> 'Hostile,' C., +though 'flashing,' 194, and 'gleaming,' 302.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_12_69" id="Footnote_12_69"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_12_69">[12]</a> Lit., 'cough.'</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_13_70" id="Footnote_13_70"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_13_70">[13]</a> So Gn. and Kr.; +'with violence,' Sw.; 'with afflictions,' C.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_14_71" id="Footnote_14_71"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_14_71">[14]</a> So Sw. and Kr.; +'Of the hostile shield-warriors,' Gn. and C.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_15_72" id="Footnote_15_72"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_15_72">[15]</a> <i>i.e.</i>, 'spirited.'</p></div> + + + +<h2><a name="part3" id="part3">ATHELSTAN,</a></h2> + +<h4>OR</h4> + +<h2>THE FIGHT AT BRUNANBURH.</h2> + +<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> +<span>Æthelstan King, of earls the lord,<br /></span> +<span>Of heroes ring-giver, and his brother too,<br /></span> +<span>Edmund Ætheling, enduring fame<br /></span> +<span>Earned in the fight with edges of swords<br /></span> +<span>By Brunanburh. The board-wall they cleaved,</span><span class="linenum">5</span><br /> +<span>The war-shields hewed with leavings of hammers<br /></span> +<span>The sons of Edward. 'Twas natural to them<br /></span> +<span>By right of descent that in battle they oft<br /></span> +<span>'Gainst every foe their land defended,<br /></span> +<span>Their hoards and homes. The foes were fallen,</span><span class="linenum">10</span><br /> +<span>Folk of the Scots and men of the ships,<br /></span> +<span>Fated they fell. The field ran thick<a name="FNanchor_1_73" id="FNanchor_1_73"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_1_73" class="fnanchor">[1]</a><br /></span> +<span>With heroes' blood, when the risen sun<br /></span> +<span>At morning-time, the mighty orb,<br /></span> +<span>Shone o'er the earth, bright candle of God,</span><span class="linenum">15</span><br /> +<span>Eternal Lord, till the noble creature<br /></span> +<span>Sank to his rest. There many men lay<br /></span> +<span>Struck down<a name="FNanchor_2_74" id="FNanchor_2_74"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_2_74" class="fnanchor">[2]</a> with spears, men from the North,<br /></span> +<span>Shot o'er the shield, and Scotsmen too,<br /></span> +<span>Weary [and] war-filled. The West-Saxons forth</span><span class="linenum">20</span><br /> +<span>The live-long day with legions of warriors<br /></span> +<span><a name="page58" id="page58"></a>Pressed on the heels of the hostile foes;<br /></span> +<span>They felled the fleers with force from behind<br /></span> +<span>With sharp-ground swords. Shrank not the Mercians<br /></span> +<span>From hard hand-play with any of heroes,</span><span class="linenum">25</span><br /> +<span>Of those who with Anlaf o'er welling of waves<br /></span> +<span>On the deck of the ship had sought the land,<br /></span> +<span>Fated for fight. Five of them lay<br /></span> +<span>On the battle-field, young kings [they were],<br /></span> +<span>Slaughtered<a name="FNanchor_3_75" id="FNanchor_3_75"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_3_75" class="fnanchor">[3]</a> with swords, and also seven</span><span class="linenum">30</span><br /> +<span>Earls of Anlaf, and unnumbered host<br /></span> +<span>Of seamen and Scots. There was forced to flee<br /></span> +<span>The Northmen's chief, by need compelled<br /></span> +<span>To the prow of his ship with few attendants.<br /></span> +<span>Keel crowded<a name="FNanchor_4_76" id="FNanchor_4_76"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_4_76" class="fnanchor">[4]</a> the sea, the king went +forth</span><span class="linenum">35</span><br /> +<span>On the fallow flood; he saved his life.<br /></span> +<span>There too the agèd escaped by flight<br /></span> +<span>To his home in the North, Constantínus.<br /></span> +<span>The hoar war-hero was unable to boast<br /></span> +<span>Of attendance of men; he was robbed of his kinsmen,</span><span class="linenum">40</span><br /> +<span>Bereaved of his friends on the battle-field,<br /></span> +<span>Conquered in fight, and he left his son<br /></span> +<span>On the place of slaughter wasted with wounds,<br /></span> +<span>The boy in the battle. He durst not boast,<br /></span> +<span>The gray-haired warrior, of the clash of swords,</span><span class="linenum">45</span><br /> +<span>The agèd enemy, nor Anlaf the more.<br /></span> +<span>With their army-remnant they durst not rejoice<br /></span> +<span>That in deeds of war they proved to be better<br /></span> +<span>On the place of battle, the striking of standards,<br /></span> +<span>The mingling of spears, the meeting of men,</span><span class="linenum">50</span><br /> +<span>The clashing of weapons, when on slaughter-field<br /></span> +<span>In contest with Edward's sons they contended.<br /></span> +<span><a name="page59" id="page59"></a>Departed the Northmen in nailèd ships,<br /></span> +<span>Drear remnant of darts, on the sea of Dyng<a name="FNanchor_5_77" id="FNanchor_5_77"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_5_77" class="fnanchor">[5]</a>[?],<br /></span> +<span>O'er the water deep Dublin to seek,</span><span class="linenum">55</span><br /> +<span>Back to land of the Erse, depressed in mind.<br /></span> +<span>Likewise the brothers both together,<br /></span> +<span>King and ætheling, were seeking their home,<br /></span> +<span>West-Saxons' land, exulting in war.<br /></span> +<span>Behind them they let the corpses share</span><span class="linenum">60</span><br /> +<span>The dark-feathered fowl, the raven black,<br /></span> +<span>The crooked-beaked, and the ashy-feathered,<br /></span> +<span>White-tailed eagle enjoy the prey,<br /></span> +<span>The greedy war-hawk, and the gray-clad beast,<br /></span> +<span>The wolf in the wood. More corpses there wére not</span><span class="linenum">65</span><br /> +<span>Upon this island ever as yet<br /></span> +<span>Of folk down-felled before this time<br /></span> +<span>With edges of sword, as books to us tell,<br /></span> +<span>Sages of old, since hither from East<br /></span> +<span>Angles and Saxons came to this land,</span><span class="linenum">70</span><br /> +<span>O'er the broad ocean Britain [once] sought,<br /></span> +<span>Haughty war-smiths the Welsh overcame,<br /></span> +<span>Earls eager for honor this earth acquired.<br /></span> +<a name="page60" id="page60"></a> +</div></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_1_73" id="Footnote_1_73"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_1_73">[1]</a> Lit., 'became slippery,' +Gn.; 'babbled' (as a brook), or 'became +dark,' Kr.; 'streamed,' Th.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_2_74" id="Footnote_2_74"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_2_74">[2]</a> 'Scattered,' Th.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_3_75" id="Footnote_3_75"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_3_75">[3]</a> Lit., 'put to sleep.'</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_4_76" id="Footnote_4_76"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_4_76">[4]</a> Or, 'He pressed ship on the sea', 'drove,' Th.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_5_77" id="Footnote_5_77"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_5_77">[5]</a> Gn. and W. take +<i>Dyng</i> as a proper name, but no one knows who +Dyng was. Kr. leaves <i>on dynges mere</i> untranslated, with the remark: +"<i>ist unaufgeklärt.</i>" He thinks it refers to some bay in Ireland, from which +the invaders set out, but why may it not be a name for the Irish Sea itself? +Th. translates 'on the roaring sea,' but adds 'quite conjectural.'</p></div> + + + +<h2><a name="part4" id="part4">BYRHTNOTH,</a></h2> + +<h4>OR</h4> + +<h2>THE FIGHT AT MALDON.</h2> + +<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> +<span>* * * * * * was broken.<br /></span> +<span>Then bade he each youth his horse to forsake,<br /></span> +<span>To hasten afar and forwards to go,<br /></span> +<span>Be mindful of might, of mood courageous.<br /></span> +<span>This Offa's kinsman at once perceived</span><span class="linenum">5</span><br /> +<span>That the earl was unwilling faint heart to endure.<br /></span> +<span>Then he let from his hands his lief<a name="FNanchor_1_78" id="FNanchor_1_78"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_1_78" class="fnanchor">[1]</a> hawk fly,<br /></span> +<span>His hawk to the holt, and to battle he stepped;<br /></span> +<span>By thát might one know that the knight was unwilling<br /></span> +<span>To be weak in the war when to weapons he took.</span><span class="linenum">10</span><br /> +<span>By him too would Eadric, by his overlord, stand,<br /></span> +<span>His chief in the fight; then forth gan he bear<br /></span> +<span>His spear to the battle: brave spirit had he<br /></span> +<span>The while that with hands he was able to hold<br /></span> +<span>Shield and broad sword; his boast he fulfilled,<a name="FNanchor_2_79" id="FNanchor_2_79"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_2_79" class="fnanchor">[2]</a></span><span class="linenum">15</span><br /> +<span>When hé 'fore his lord was bound to fight.<br /></span> +<span>There Byrhtnoth gan then his warriors embolden,<br /></span> +<span>Rode and gave rede, instructed his men<br /></span> +<span>Hów they should stand, and the stead sustain,<br /></span> +<span>And bade that rimmed shields they rightly should hold</span><span class="linenum">20</span><br /> +<span><a name="page61" id="page61"></a>Fast with their fists, and frightened be never.<br /></span> +<span>When hé had the folk fairly emboldened,<br /></span> +<span>With his men he alighted where was liefest to him,<br /></span> +<span>Whére his hearth-followers most faithful he knew.<br /></span> +<span>Then stood on the stathe,<a name="FNanchor_3_80" id="FNanchor_3_80"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_3_80" class="fnanchor">[3]</a> stoutly did call</span><span class="linenum">25</span><br /> +<span>The wikings' herald, with words he spake,<br /></span> +<span>Who boastfully bore fróm the brine-farers<br /></span> +<span>An errand to th' earl, where he stood on the shore:<br /></span> +<span>"To thee me did send the seamen snell,<a name="FNanchor_4_81" id="FNanchor_4_81"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_4_81" class="fnanchor">[4]</a><br /></span> +<span>Bade to thee say, thou must send to them quickly</span><span class="linenum">30</span><br /> +<span>Bracelets for safety; and 'tis better for you<br /></span> +<span>That <i>ye</i> this spear-rush with tribute buy off<br /></span> +<span>Than <i>we</i> in so fierce a fight engage.<br /></span> +<span>We need not each spill,<a name="FNanchor_5_82" id="FNanchor_5_82"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_5_82" class="fnanchor">[5]</a> if ye speed to this:<br /></span> +<span>We will for the pay a peace confirm.</span><span class="linenum">35</span><br /> +<span>If thou that redest who art highest in rank,<br /></span> +<span>If thou thy lieges art willing to loose,<br /></span> +<span>To pay to the seamen at their own pleasure<br /></span> +<span>Money for peace, and take peace from us,<br /></span> +<span>We will with the treasure betake us to ship,</span><span class="linenum">40</span><br /> +<span>Fare on the flood, and peace with you confirm."<br /></span> +<span>Byrhtnoth replied, his buckler uplifted,<br /></span> +<span>Waved his slim spear, with words he spake,<br /></span> +<span>Angry and firm gave answer to him:<br /></span> +<span>"Hear'st thou, seafarer, what saith this folk?</span><span class="linenum">45</span><br /> +<span>They will for tribute spear-shafts you pay,<br /></span> +<span>Poisonous points and trusty<a name="FNanchor_6_83" id="FNanchor_6_83"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_6_83" class="fnanchor">[6]</a> swords,<br /></span> +<span>Those weapons that you in battle avail not.<br /></span> +<span>Herald of seamen, hark<a name="FNanchor_7_84" id="FNanchor_7_84"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_7_84" class="fnanchor">[7]</a> back again,<br /></span> +<span>Say to thy people much sadder words,</span><span class="linenum">50</span><br /> +<span>Here stands not unknown an earl with his band,<br /></span> +<span>Whó will defend this father-land,<br /></span> +<span><a name="page62" id="page62"></a>Æthelred's home, mine own liege lord's,<br /></span> +<span>His folk and field: ye're fated to fall,<br /></span> +<span>Ye heathen, in battle. Too base it me seems</span><span class="linenum">55</span><br /> +<span>That ye with our scats<a name="FNanchor_8_85" id="FNanchor_8_85"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_8_85" class="fnanchor">[8]</a> to ship may go<br /></span> +<span>Unfought against, so far ye now hither<br /></span> +<span>Intó our country have come within;<br /></span> +<span>Ye shall not so gently treasure obtain;<br /></span> +<span>Shall spear and sword sooner beseem us,</span><span class="linenum">60</span><br /> +<span>Grim battle-play, ere tribute we give."<br /></span> +<span>Then bade he shield bear, warriors advance,<br /></span> +<span>So that on the burn-stathe<a name="FNanchor_9_86" id="FNanchor_9_86"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_9_86" class="fnanchor">[9]</a> they all were standing.<br /></span> +<span>Might not thére for the water one war-band to th' other,<br /></span> +<span>When flowing flood came after the ebb,</span><span class="linenum">65</span><br /> +<span>Sea-streams interlocked; too long seemed it them<br /></span> +<span>Till they together their spears should bear.<br /></span> +<span>Then Panta's stream with pomp<a name="FNanchor_10_87" id="FNanchor_10_87"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_10_87" class="fnanchor">[10]</a> [?] they beset,<br /></span> +<span>East-Saxons' chief and the host from the ships:<br /></span> +<span>No one of them might do harm to the other,</span><span class="linenum">70</span><br /> +<span>But he who by dart's flight his death should receive.<br /></span> +<span>The flood ebbed forth; the fleetmen stood ready,<br /></span> +<span>Many of wikings, eager for war.<br /></span> +<span>Bade heroes' buckler<a name="FNanchor_11_88" id="FNanchor_11_88"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_11_88" class="fnanchor">[11]</a> then hold the bridge<br /></span> +<span>A war-hardened warrior, who Wulfstan was named,</span><span class="linenum">75</span><br /> +<span>Bold 'mid his kin (he was Ceola's son),<br /></span> +<span>Who the first man with his dart shot down<br /></span> +<span>That there most boldly stepped on the bridge.<br /></span> +<span>There stood with Wulfstan warriors fearless,<br /></span> +<span>Ælfhere and Maccus, courageous the twain;</span><span class="linenum">80</span><br /> +<span>At the ford they would nót seek safety in flight,<br /></span> +<span>But firm 'gainst the foes themselves they defended,<br /></span> +<span><a name="page63" id="page63"></a>The while that they weapons were able to wield.<br /></span> +<span>When they that perceived and earnestly saw<br /></span> +<span>That there bridge-fenders [so] fierce they found,</span><span class="linenum">85</span><br /> +<span>Began to lie these loathly guests:<br /></span> +<span>Begged that out-going they might obtain,<br /></span> +<span>Fare o'er the ford, their footmen lead.<br /></span> +<span>Then gan the earl on account of his pride<br /></span> +<span>Leave too much land to the loathly people.</span><span class="linenum">90</span><br /> +<span>Began then to call o'er the water cold<br /></span> +<span>The son<a name="FNanchor_12_89" id="FNanchor_12_89"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_12_89" class="fnanchor">[12]</a> of Byrhthelm (the warriors listened):<br /></span> +<span>"Now room is allowed you, come quickly to us,<br /></span> +<span>Warriors to war; wot God alone<br /></span> +<span>Who thís battle-field may be able to keep."</span><span class="linenum">95</span><br /> +<span>Waded the war-wolves, for water they recked not,<br /></span> +<span>The wikings' band, west over Panta,<br /></span> +<span>O'er the clear water carried their shields,<br /></span> +<span>Boatmen to bank their bucklers bore.<br /></span> +<span>There facing their foes ready were standing</span><span class="linenum">100</span><br /> +<span>Byrhtnoth with warriors: with shields he bade<br /></span> +<span>The war-hedge<a name="FNanchor_13_90" id="FNanchor_13_90"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_13_90" class="fnanchor">[13]</a> work, and the war-band hold<br /></span> +<span>Fast 'gainst the foes. Then fight was nigh,<br /></span> +<span>Glory in battle; the time was come<br /></span> +<span>That fated men should there [now] fall.</span><span class="linenum">105</span><br /> +<span>Then out-cry was raised, the ravens circled,<br /></span> +<span>Eagle eager for prey; on earth was uproar.<br /></span> +<span>Then they let from their fists the file-hardened spears,<br /></span> +<span>The darts well-ground, [fiercely]<a name="FNanchor_14_91" id="FNanchor_14_91"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_14_91" class="fnanchor">[14]</a> fly forth:<br /></span> +<span>The bows were busy, board point received,</span><span class="linenum">110</span><br /> +<span>Bitter the battle-rush, warriors fell down,<br /></span> +<span>On either hands the youths lay dead.<br /></span> +<span>Wounded was Wulfmær, death-rest he chose,<br /></span> +<span><a name="page64" id="page64"></a>Byrhtnoth's kinsman, with + bills<a name="FNanchor_15_92" id="FNanchor_15_92"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_15_92" class="fnanchor">[15]</a> was hé,<br /></span> +<span>His sister's son, mightily hewn.</span><span class="linenum">115</span><br /> +<span>There was to the wikings recompense given;<br /></span> +<span>Heard I that Edward one of them slew<br /></span> +<span>Strongly with sword, stroke he withheld not,<br /></span> +<span>That fell at his feet the fated warrior;<br /></span> +<span>For that did his prince give thanks to him,</span><span class="linenum">120</span><br /> +<span>To his bower-thane,<a name="FNanchor_16_93" id="FNanchor_16_93"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_16_93" class="fnanchor">[16]</a> when he had opportunity.<br /></span> +<span>So firmly stood the fierce-in-mind,<br /></span> +<span>The youths in fight, eagerly thought<br /></span> +<span>Who there with his spear might soonest be able<br /></span> +<span>From a fated man the life to win,</span><span class="linenum">125</span><br /> +<span>A warrior with weapons: the dead to earth fell.<br /></span> +<span>Steadfast they stood; strengthened them Byrhtnoth,<br /></span> +<span>Bade that each youth of battle should think<br /></span> +<span>He whó on the Danes glory would gain.<br /></span> +<span>Went then a war-brave, his weapon uplifted,</span><span class="linenum">130</span><br /> +<span>His shield for defence, and strode towards the chief;<br /></span> +<span>So earnest he went, the earl to the churl:<br /></span> +<span>Each for the other of evil was thinking.<br /></span> +<span>Sent then the seaman his spear from the south<br /></span> +<span>That wounded wás the warrior's lord;</span><span class="linenum">135</span><br /> +<span>Then he shoved with his shield that the shaft in two broke,<br /></span> +<span>And the spear was shivered; so sprang it back.<br /></span> +<span>Enraged was the warrior: with his spear he thrust<br /></span> +<span>The wiking proud, who the wound him gave.<br /></span> +<span>Wise was the warrior; he let his spear pierce</span><span class="linenum">140</span><br /> +<span>Through the neck of the youth; his hand it guided<br /></span> +<span>So that hé his foe of life deprived.<br /></span> +<span>Then he another speedily shot,<br /></span> +<span>That the byrnie burst; in breast was he wounded<br /></span> +<span>Through the ringèd mail; there stood in his heart</span><span class="linenum">145</span><br /> +<a name="page65" id="page65"></a> +<span>The poisonous point. The earl was the gladder;<br /></span> +<span>Laughed the proud man, to his Maker gave thanks<br /></span> +<span>For the work of that day that the Lord him gave.<br /></span> +<span>Then let one of warriors a dart from his hands,<br /></span> +<span>Fly from his fist, that forth it went</span><span class="linenum">150</span><br /> +<span>Thróugh that noble thane of Æthelred.<br /></span> +<span>There stood by his side a youth not grown,<br /></span> +<span>A boy in the fight, whó very boldly<br /></span> +<span>Drew from the warrior the bloody spear,<br /></span> +<span>The son of Wulfstan, Wulfmær the young;</span><span class="linenum">155</span><br /> +<span>He let the hard weapon fly back again;<br /></span> +<span>The point in-pierced, that on earth he lay<br /></span> +<span>Who erst his lord strongly had struck.<br /></span> +<span>Went then an armored man to the earl,<br /></span> +<span>He would the warrior's jewels fetch back,</span><span class="linenum">160</span><br /> +<span>Armor and rings and sword well-adorned.<br /></span> +<span>Then Byrhtnoth drew his sword from its sheath,<br /></span> +<span>Broad and brown-edged, and on byrnie he struck:<br /></span> +<span>Too quickly him hindered one of the seamen,<br /></span> +<span>When he of the earl the arm had wounded;</span><span class="linenum">165</span><br /> +<span>Fell then to earth the fallow-hilt sword:<br /></span> +<span>He might not hold the hardened brand,<br /></span> +<span>His weapon wield. Yet the word he spake,<br /></span> +<span>The hoary hero the youths encouraged,<br /></span> +<span>Bade forwards go his good companions:</span><span class="linenum">170</span><br /> +<span>He might not on foot longer stand firm;<br /></span> +<span>He looked up to heaven, [the earl exclaimed:<a name="FNanchor_17_94" id="FNanchor_17_94"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_17_94" class="fnanchor">[17]</a>]<br /></span> +<span>"I thanks to thee give, Ruler of nations,<br /></span> +<span>For all those joys that on earth I experienced:<br /></span> +<span>Now, Maker mild, most need have I</span><span class="linenum">175</span><br /> +<span>That thou to my spirit the blessing grant,<br /></span><a name="page66" id="page66"></a> +<span>That my soul to thee may take its course,<br /></span> +<span>Intó thy power, Prince of angels,<br /></span> +<span>With peace may go: I pray to thee,<br /></span> +<span>That fiends of hell may not it harm."</span><span class="linenum">180</span><br /> +<span>Then hewed him down the heathen hinds,<br /></span> +<span>And both the warriors, who by him stood,<br /></span> +<span>Ælfnoth and Wulfmær both lay down dead,<br /></span> +<span>Beside their lord gave up their lives.<br /></span> +<span>Then bowed they from battle who there would not be;</span><span class="linenum">185</span><br /> +<span>There Odda's sons were erst in flight:<br /></span> +<span>From battle went Godric, and the good one forsook,<br /></span> +<span>Who hád on him many a steed oft bestowed:<br /></span> +<span>He leaped on the horse that his lord had owned,<br /></span> +<span>Upon those trappings that right it was not,</span><span class="linenum">190</span><br /> +<span>And his brothers with him both ran away,<br /></span> +<span>Godrinc and Godwig, recked not of war,<br /></span> +<span>But went from the fight, and sought the wood,<br /></span> +<span>Fled to the fastness, and saved their lives,<br /></span> +<span>And more of the men than wás at all meet,</span><span class="linenum">195</span><br /> +<span>If they those services all had remembered,<br /></span> +<span>That he for their welfare to them had done;<br /></span> +<span>So Offa to him one day had erst said<br /></span> +<span>At the meeting-place, when he held a moot,<br /></span> +<span>That there [very] proudly they many things spake</span><span class="linenum">200</span><br /> +<span>Which after in need they would not perform.<a name="FNanchor_18_95" id="FNanchor_18_95"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_18_95" class="fnanchor">[18]</a><br /></span> +<span>Thén was down-fallen the prince of the folk,<br /></span> +<span>Æthelred's earl: all of them saw,<br /></span> +<span>The hearth-companions, that their lord lay dead.<br /></span> +<span>Then hurried there forth the haughty thanes,</span><span class="linenum">205</span><br /> +<span>The valiant men eagerly hastened:<br /></span> +<span>They would then all the one of the two,<br /></span> +<span>Their lives forsake or their loved one avenge.<br /></span><a name="page67" id="page67"></a> +<span>So urged them ón the son of Ælfric,<br /></span> +<span>A winter-young warrior, with words them addressed.</span><span class="linenum">210</span><br /> +<span>Then Ælfwine quoth (boldly he spake):<br /></span> +<span>"Remember the times that we oft at mead spake,<br /></span> +<span>When we on the bench our boast upraised,<br /></span> +<span>Heroes in hall, the hard fight anent:<br /></span> +<span>Now may be tested who is the true.<a name="FNanchor_19_96" id="FNanchor_19_96"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_19_96" class="fnanchor">[19]</a></span><span class="linenum">215</span><br /> +<span>I will my lineage to all make known,<br /></span> +<span>That I 'mong the Mercians of mickle race was,<br /></span> +<span>My grandfather wás Ealhhelm by name,<br /></span> +<span>An alderman wise, with wealth endowed.<br /></span> +<span>Ne'er shall 'mong this folk me thanes reproach</span><span class="linenum">220</span><br /> +<span>That I from this host will hasten to wend,<br /></span> +<span>My home to seek, now lies my lord<br /></span> +<span>Down-hewn in fight; to me 'tis great harm:<br /></span> +<span>By blood he was kin and by rank he was lord."<a name="FNanchor_20_97" id="FNanchor_20_97"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_20_97" class="fnanchor">[20]</a><br /></span> +<span>Then went he forth, was mindful of feud,</span><span class="linenum">225</span><br /> +<span>That hé with his spear one of them pierced,<br /></span> +<span>A sailor o' the folk, that he lay on the ground<br /></span> +<span>Killed with his weapon. Gan he comrades exhort,<br /></span> +<span>Friends and companions, that forth they should go.<br /></span> +<span>Offa addressed them, his ash-spear shook:</span><span class="linenum">230</span><br /> +<span>"Lo! Ælfwine, thóu hast all admonished,<br /></span> +<span>Thanes, of the need. Now lieth our lord,<br /></span> +<span>Earl on the earth, to us all there is need<br /></span> +<span>That each one of us should strengthen the other<br /></span> +<span>Warrior to war, while weapon he may</span><span class="linenum">235</span><br /> +<span>[Still] have and hold, the hardened brand,<br /></span> +<span>Spear and good sword. Us hath Godric,<br /></span> +<span>Cowed son of Offa, all [basely] deceived:<br /></span> +<span>So many men thought when on mare he rode,<br /></span> +<span>On thát proud steed, that it wás our lord:</span><span class="linenum">240</span><br /> +<span><a name="page68" id="page68"></a>Therefore in field here the folk was divided,<br /></span> +<span>The phalanx broken: may perish his deed,<br /></span> +<span>That he here so many men caused to flee!"<br /></span> +<span>Leofsunu spake, and uplifted his shield,<br /></span> +<span>His buckler for guard; to the warrior he quoth:</span><span class="linenum">245</span><br /> +<span>"I promise thee this, that hence I will nót<br /></span> +<span>A foot's breadth flee, but further will go,<br /></span> +<span>Avenge in battle mine own dear lord.<br /></span> +<span>Me need not 'round Stourmere the steadfast heroes<br /></span> +<span>With words reproach, now my friend has fallen,</span><span class="linenum">250</span><br /> +<span>That, lacking my lord, home I depart,<br /></span> +<span>Wend from the war, but weapons shall take me,<br /></span> +<span>Spear and iron."<a name="FNanchor_21_98" id="FNanchor_21_98"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_21_98" class="fnanchor">[21]</a> Full angry he strode,<br /></span> +<span>Firmly he fought, flight he despised.<br /></span> +<span>Then Dunnere spake, his spear he shook,</span><span class="linenum">255</span><br /> +<span>The agèd churl, called over all,<br /></span> +<span>Bade that each warrior should Byrhtnoth avenge:<br /></span> +<span>"He may not delay who thinks to avenge<br /></span> +<span>His lord on the folk, nor care for his life."<br /></span> +<span>Then forwards they went, they recked not of life;</span><span class="linenum">260</span><br /> +<span>Gan then his followers valiantly fight,<br /></span> +<span>Spear-bearers grim, and to God they prayed,<br /></span> +<span>That théy might avenge their own dear lord,<br /></span> +<span>And upon their foes slaughter fulfil.<br /></span> +<span>Then gan the hostage eagerly help:</span><span class="linenum">265</span><br /> +<span>He was 'mong Northumbrians of valiant race,<br /></span> +<span>The son of Ecglaf, his name was Æscferth:<br /></span> +<span>Ne'er wavered hé in that play of war,<br /></span> +<span>But he hastened forth many a dart;<br /></span> +<span>At times shot on shield, at times killed a chief,</span><span class="linenum">270</span><br /> +<span>Ever and anon inflicted some wound,<br /></span> +<span>The while that he weapon was able to wield.<br /></span><a name="page69" id="page69"></a> +<span>Then still in front stood Edward the long,<br /></span> +<span>Ready and eager; boastingly said<br /></span> +<span>That hé would not flee a foot-breadth of land,</span><span class="linenum">275</span><br /> +<span>Backwards withdraw, when his better lay dead:<br /></span> +<span>Broke he the shield-wall and fought 'gainst the warriors,<br /></span> +<span>Till hé his ring-giver upón the seamen<br /></span> +<span>Worthily avenged, ere he lay on the field.<br /></span> +<span>So [too] did Ætheric, noble companion,</span><span class="linenum">280</span><br /> +<span>Ready and eager, earnestly fought he;<br /></span> +<span>Sigebryht's brother and many another<br /></span> +<span>Cleft the curved<a name="FNanchor_22_99" id="FNanchor_22_99"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_22_99" class="fnanchor">[22]</a> board, them bravely defended;<br /></span> +<span>Shield's border burst, and the byrnie sang<br /></span> +<span>A terrible song. In battle then slew</span><span class="linenum">285</span><br /> +<span>Offa the seaman that on earth he fell,<br /></span> +<span>And the kinsman of Gadd there sought the ground;<br /></span> +<span>Quickly in battle was Offa hewn down:<br /></span> +<span>He had though fulfilled what he promised his lord,<br /></span> +<span>As hé before vowed in face of his ring-giver,</span><span class="linenum">290</span><br /> +<span>That both of them shóuld ride to the borough,<br /></span> +<span>Hale to their homes, or in battle should fall,<br /></span> +<span>Upón the slaughter-place die of their wounds;<br /></span> +<span>He lay like a thane his lord beside.<br /></span> +<span>Then was breaking of boards; the seamen stormed,</span><span class="linenum">295</span><br /> +<span>Enraged by the fight; the spear oft pierced<br /></span> +<span>The fated one's life-house. Forth then went Wigstan,<br /></span> +<span>Son of Thurstan, fought 'gainst the foes:<br /></span> +<span>He wás in the throng the slayer of three,<br /></span> +<span>Ere Wigelin's bairn lay dead on the field.</span><span class="linenum">300</span><br /> +<span>There fierce was the fight: firmly they stood,<br /></span> +<span>Warriors in war, the fighters fell,<br /></span> +<span>Weary with wounds; fell corpses to earth.<br /></span><a name="page70" id="page70"></a> +<span>Oswald and Ealdwald during all the while,<br /></span> +<span>Both of the brothers, emboldened the warriors,</span><span class="linenum">305</span><br /> +<span>Their kinsman-friends bade they in words,<br /></span> +<span>That they in need should there endure,<br /></span> +<span>Unwaveringlý their weapons use.<br /></span> +<span>Byrhtwold [then] spake, uplifted his shield,—<br /></span> +<span>Old comrade was he,—his spear he shook,</span><span class="linenum">310</span><br /> +<span>Hé very boldly exhorted the warriors:<br /></span> +<span>"The braver shall thought be, the bolder the heart,<br /></span> +<span>The more the mood,<a name="FNanchor_23_100" id="FNanchor_23_100"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_23_100" class="fnanchor">[23]</a> as lessens our might.<br /></span> +<span>Here lieth our lord, all hewn to pieces,<br /></span> +<span>The good on the ground: ever may grieve</span><span class="linenum">315</span><br /> +<span>Who now from this war-play thinketh to wend.<br /></span> +<span>I am old in years: hence will I not,<br /></span> +<span>But here beside mine own dear lord,<br /></span> +<span>So loved a man, I purpose to lie."<br /></span> +<span>So Æthelgar's bairn them all emboldened,</span><span class="linenum">320</span><br /> +<span>Godric, to battle: oft let he his spear,<br /></span> +<span>His war-spear wind amongst the wikings;<br /></span> +<span>So 'midst the folk foremost he went,<br /></span> +<span>Hewed he and felled, till in battle he lay;<br /></span> +<span>This was nót that Godric who fled from the fight.</span><span class="linenum">325</span><br /> +<span>* * * * * * * *<br /></span> +<a name="page71" id="page71"></a> +</div></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_1_78" id="Footnote_1_78"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_1_78">[1]</a> Dear.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_2_79" id="Footnote_2_79"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_2_79">[2]</a> Or, 'maintained.'</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_3_80" id="Footnote_3_80"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_3_80">[3]</a> Bank.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_4_81" id="Footnote_4_81"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_4_81">[4]</a> Bold.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_5_82" id="Footnote_5_82"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_5_82">[5]</a> Destroy.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_6_83" id="Footnote_6_83"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_6_83">[6]</a> Lit., 'old.'</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_7_84" id="Footnote_7_84"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_7_84">[7]</a> Lit., 'announce.'</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_8_85" id="Footnote_8_85"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_8_85">[8]</a> Money.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_9_86" id="Footnote_9_86"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_9_86">[9]</a> Bank of the stream.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_10_87" id="Footnote_10_87"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_10_87">[10]</a> <i>i.e.</i>, +'battle-array,' Sw., but the word is uncertain; Kr. suggests 'fascines'; +Zl. merely gives '<i>Prunk</i>.'</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_11_88" id="Footnote_11_88"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_11_88">[11]</a> <i>i.e.</i>, Byrhtnoth.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_12_89" id="Footnote_12_89"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_12_89">[12]</a> <i>i.e.</i>, Byrhtnoth.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_13_90" id="Footnote_13_90"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_13_90">[13]</a> <i>i.e.</i>, the +phalanx with interlocked shields.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_14_91" id="Footnote_14_91"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_14_91">[14]</a> Some such word as +<i>grame</i>, or <i>grimme</i>, seems needed for the alliteration.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_15_92" id="Footnote_15_92"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_15_92">[15]</a> <i>i.e.</i>, battle-axes.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_16_93" id="Footnote_16_93"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_16_93">[16]</a> Chamberlain.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_17_94" id="Footnote_17_94"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_17_94">[17]</a> Inserted by Kr. to fill +the <i>lacuna</i>, whom W. follows; Sw. and Zl. omit.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_18_95" id="Footnote_18_95"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_18_95">[18]</a> Lit., 'suffer,' 'endure.'</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_19_96" id="Footnote_19_96"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_19_96">[19]</a> Lit., 'bold.'</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_20_97" id="Footnote_20_97"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_20_97">[20]</a> Lit., 'He was both my kinsman +and my lord.'</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_21_98" id="Footnote_21_98"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_21_98">[21]</a> <i>i.e.</i>, 'sword.'</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_22_99" id="Footnote_22_99"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_22_99">[22]</a> <i>i.e.</i>, 'hollow +shields.' <i>Cellod</i> is found only here and in Finnsburg, 29.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_23_100" id="Footnote_23_100"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_23_100">[23]</a> <i>i.e.</i>, 'courage.'</p></div> + + + +<h2><a name="part5" id="part5">THE DREAM OF THE ROOD.</a></h2> + +<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> +<span>Lo! choicest of dreams I will relate,<br /></span> +<span>What dream I dreamt in middle of night<br /></span> +<span>When mortal men reposed in rest.<br /></span> +<span>Methought I saw a wondrous wood<br /></span> +<span>Tower aloft with light bewound,</span><span class="linenum">5</span><br /> +<span>Brightest of trees; that beacon was all<br /></span> +<span>Begirt with gold; jewels were standing<br /></span> +<span>Four<a name="FNanchor_1_101" id="FNanchor_1_101"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_1_101" class="fnanchor">[1]</a> at surface of earth, likewise were there five<br /></span> +<span>Above on the shoulder-brace. All angels of God beheld it,<br /></span> +<span>Fair through future ages; 'twas no criminal's cross indeed,</span><span class="linenum">10</span><br /> +<span>But holy spirits beheld it there,<br /></span> +<span>Men upon earth, all this glorious creation.<br /></span> +<span>Strange was that victor-tree, and stained with sins was I,<br /></span> +<span>With foulness defiled. I saw the glorious tree<br /></span> +<span>With vesture<a name="FNanchor_2_102" id="FNanchor_2_102"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_2_102" class="fnanchor">[2]</a> adorned winsomely shine,</span><span class="linenum">15</span><br /> +<span>Begirt with gold; bright gems had there<br /></span> +<span>Worthily decked the tree of the Lord.<a name="FNanchor_3_103" id="FNanchor_3_103"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_3_103" class="fnanchor">[3]</a><br /></span> +<span>Yet through that gold I might perceive<br /></span> +<span>Old strife of the wretched, that first it gave<br /></span> +<span>Blood on the stronger [right] side. With sorrows was I oppressed,</span><span class="linenum">20</span><br /> +<span><a name="page72" id="page72"></a>Afraid for that fair sight; I saw the ready beacon<br /></span> +<span>Change in vesture and hue; at times with moisture covered,<br /></span> +<span>Soiled with course of blood; at times with treasure adorned.<br /></span> +<span>Yet lying there a longer while,<br /></span> +<span>Beheld I sad the Saviour's tree</span><span class="linenum">25</span><br /> +<span>Until I heard that words it uttered;<br /></span> +<span>The best of woods gan speak these words:<br /></span> +<span>"'Twas long ago (I remember it still)<br /></span> +<span>That I was hewn at end of a grove,<br /></span> +<span>Stripped from off my stem; strong foes laid hold of me there,</span><span class="linenum">30</span><br /> +<span>Wrought for themselves a show, bade felons raise me up;<br /></span> +<span>Men bore me on their shoulders, till on a mount they set me;<br /></span> +<span>Fiends many fixed me there. Then saw I mankind's Lord<br /></span> +<span>Hasten with mickle might, for He would sty<a name="FNanchor_4_104" id="FNanchor_4_104"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_4_104" class="fnanchor">[4]</a> upon me.<br /></span> +<span>There durst I not 'gainst word of the Lord</span><span class="linenum">35</span><br /> +<span>Bow down or break, when saw I tremble<br /></span> +<span>The surface of earth; I might then all<br /></span> +<span>My foes have felled, yet fast I stood.<br /></span> +<span>The Hero young begirt<a name="FNanchor_5_105" id="FNanchor_5_105"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_5_105" class="fnanchor">[5]</a> Himself, Almighty God was He,<br /></span> +<span>Strong and stern of mind; He stied on the gallows high,</span><span class="linenum">40</span><br /> +<span>Bold in sight of many, for man He would redeem.<br /></span> +<span>I shook when the Hero clasped me, yet durst not bow to earth,<br /></span> +<span>Fall to surface of earth, but firm I must there stand.<br /></span> +<span><a name="page73" id="page73"></a>A rood was I upreared; I raised the mighty King,<br /></span> +<span>The Lord of Heaven; I durst not bend me.</span><span class="linenum">45</span><br /> +<span>They drove their dark nails through me; the wounds are seen upon me,<br /></span> +<span>The open gashes of guile; I durst harm none<a name="FNanchor_6_106" id="FNanchor_6_106"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_6_106" class="fnanchor">[6]</a> of them.<br /></span> +<span>They mocked us both together; all moistened with blood was I,<br /></span> +<span>Shed from side of the man, when forth He sent His spirit.<br /></span> +<span>Many have I on that mount endured</span><span class="linenum">50</span><br /> +<span>Of cruel fates; I saw the Lord of Hosts<br /></span> +<span>Strongly outstretched; darkness had then<br /></span> +<span>Covered with clouds the corse of the Lord,<br /></span> +<span>The brilliant brightness; the shadow continued,<a name="FNanchor_7_107" id="FNanchor_7_107"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_7_107" class="fnanchor">[7]</a><br /></span> +<span>Wan 'neath the welkin. There wept all creation,</span><span class="linenum">55</span><br /> +<span>Bewailed the King's death; Christ was on the cross.<br /></span> +<span>Yet hastening thither they came from afar<br /></span> +<span>To the Son of the King<a name="FNanchor_8_108" id="FNanchor_8_108"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_8_108" class="fnanchor">[8]</a>: that all I beheld.<br /></span> +<span>Sorely with sorrows was I oppressed; yet I bowed 'neath the hands of men,<br /></span> +<span>Lowly with mickle might. Took they there Almighty God,</span><span class="linenum">60</span><br /> +<span>Him raised from the heavy torture; the battle-warriors left me<br /></span> +<span>To stand bedrenched with blood; all wounded with darts was I.<br /></span> +<span>There laid they the weary of limb, at head of His corse they stood,<br /></span> +<span>Beheld the Lord of Heaven, and He rested Him there awhile,<br /></span> +<span>Worn from the mickle war. Began they an earth-house to work,</span><span class="linenum">65</span><br /> +<span><a name="page74" id="page74"></a>Men in the murderers'<a name="FNanchor_9_109" id="FNanchor_9_109"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_9_109" class="fnanchor">[9]</a> sight, carved it of brightest stone,<br /></span> +<span>Placed therein victories' Lord. Began sad songs to sing<br /></span> +<span>The wretched at eventide; then would they back return<br /></span> +<span>Mourning from the mighty prince; all lonely<a name="FNanchor_10_110" id="FNanchor_10_110"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_10_110" class="fnanchor">[10]</a> rested He there.<br /></span> +<span>Yet weeping<a name="FNanchor_11_111" id="FNanchor_11_111"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_11_111" class="fnanchor">[11]</a> we then a longer while</span><span class="linenum">70</span><br /> +<span>Stood at our station: the [voice<a name="FNanchor_12_112" id="FNanchor_12_112"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_12_112" class="fnanchor">[12]</a>] arose<br /></span> +<span>Of battle-warriors; the corse grew cold,<br /></span> +<span>Fair house of life. Then one gan fell<br /></span> +<span>Us<a name="FNanchor_13_113" id="FNanchor_13_113"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_13_113" class="fnanchor">[13]</a> all to earth; 'twas a fearful fate!<br /></span> +<span>One buried us in deep pit, yet of me the thanes of the Lord,</span><span class="linenum">75</span><br /> +<span>His friends, heard tell; [from earth they raised me],<a name="FNanchor_14_114" id="FNanchor_14_114"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_14_114" class="fnanchor">[14]</a><br /></span> +<span>And me begirt with gold and silver.<br /></span> +<span>Now thou mayst hear, my dearest man,<br /></span> +<span>That bale of woes<a name="FNanchor_15_115" id="FNanchor_15_115"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_15_115" class="fnanchor">[15]</a> have I endured,<br /></span> +<span>Of sorrows sore. Now the time is come,</span><span class="linenum">80</span><br /> +<span>That me shall honor both far and wide<br /></span> +<span>Men upon earth, and all this mighty creation<br /></span> +<span>Will pray to this beacon. On me God's Son<br /></span> +<span><a name="page75" id="page75"></a>Suffered awhile; so glorious now<br /></span> +<span>I tower to Heaven, and I may heal</span><span class="linenum">85</span><br /> +<span>Each one of those who reverence me;<br /></span> +<span>Of old I became the hardest of pains,<br /></span> +<span>Most loathsome to ledes<a name="FNanchor_16_116" id="FNanchor_16_116"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_16_116" class="fnanchor">[16]</a> [nations], the way of life,<br /></span> +<span>Right way, I prepared for mortal men.<a name="FNanchor_17_117" id="FNanchor_17_117"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_17_117" class="fnanchor">[17]</a><br /></span> +<span>Lo! the Lord of Glory honored me then</span><span class="linenum">90</span><br /> +<span>Above the grove,<a name="FNanchor_18_118" id="FNanchor_18_118"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_18_118" class="fnanchor">[18]</a> the guardian of Heaven,<br /></span> +<span>As He His mother, even Mary herself,<br /></span> +<span>Almighty God before all men<br /></span> +<span>Worthily honored above all women.<br /></span> +<span>Now thee I bid, my dearest man,</span><span class="linenum">95</span><br /> +<span>That thou this sight shalt say to men,<br /></span> +<span>Reveal in words, 'tis the tree of glory,<br /></span> +<span>On which once suffered Almighty God<br /></span> +<span>For the many sins of all mankind,<br /></span> +<span>And also for Adam's misdeeds of old.</span><span class="linenum">100</span><br /> +<span>Death tasted He there; yet the Lord arose<br /></span> +<span>With His mickle might for help to men.<br /></span> +<span>Then stied He to Heaven; again shall come<br /></span> +<span>Upon this mid-earth to seek mankind<br /></span> +<span>At the day of doom the Lord Himself,</span><span class="linenum">105</span><br /> +<span>Almighty God, and His angels with Him;<br /></span> +<span>Then He will judge, who hath right of doom,<br /></span> +<span>Each one of men as here before<br /></span> +<span>In this vain life he hath deserved.<br /></span> +<span>No one may there be free from fear</span><span class="linenum">110</span><br /> +<span>In view of the word that the Judge will speak.<br /></span> +<span>He will ask 'fore the crowd, where is the man<br /></span> +<span>Who for name of the Lord would bitter death<br /></span> +<span>Be willing to taste, as He did on the tree.<br /></span> +<span>But then they will fear, and few will bethink them</span><span class="linenum">115</span><br /> +<a name="page76" id="page76"></a> +<span>What they to Christ may venture to say.<br /></span> +<span>Then need there no one be filled with fear<a name="FNanchor_19_119" id="FNanchor_19_119"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_19_119" class="fnanchor">[19]</a><br /></span> +<span>Who bears in his breast the best of beacons;<br /></span> +<span>But through the rood a kingdom shall seek<br /></span> +<span>From earthly way each single soul</span><span class="linenum">120</span><br /> +<span>That with the Lord thinketh to dwell."<br /></span> +<span>Then I prayed to the tree with joyous heart,<br /></span> +<span>With mickle might, when I was alone<br /></span> +<span>With small attendance<a name="FNanchor_20_120" id="FNanchor_20_120"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_20_120" class="fnanchor">[20]</a>; the thought of my mind<br /></span> +<span>For the journey was ready; I've lived through many</span><span class="linenum">125</span><br /> +<span>Hours of longing. Now 'tis hope of my life<br /></span> +<span>That the victory-tree I am able to seek,<br /></span> +<span>Oftener than all men I alone may<br /></span> +<span>Honor it well; my will to that<br /></span> +<span>Is mickle in mind, and my plea for protection</span><span class="linenum">130</span><br /> +<span>To the rood is directed. I've not many mighty<br /></span> +<span>Of friends on earth; but hence went they forth<br /></span> +<span>From joys of the world, sought glory's King;<br /></span> +<span>Now live they in Heaven with the Father on high,<br /></span> +<span>In glory dwell, and I hope for myself</span><span class="linenum">135</span><br /> +<span>On every day when the rood of the Lord,<br /></span> +<span>Which here on earth before I viewed,<br /></span> +<span>In this vain life may fetch me away<br /></span> +<span>And bring me then, where bliss is mickle,<br /></span> +<span>Joy in the Heavens, where the folk of the Lord</span><span class="linenum">140</span><br /> +<span>Is set at the feast, where bliss is eternal;<br /></span> +<span>And may He then set me where I may hereafter<br /></span> +<span>In glory dwell, and well with the saints<br /></span> +<span>Of joy partake. May the Lord be my friend,<br /></span> +<span>Who here on earth suffered before</span><span class="linenum">145</span><br /> +<span>On the gallows-tree for the sins of man!<br /></span> +<span><a name="page77" id="page77"></a>He us redeemed, and gave to us life,<br /></span> +<span>A heavenly home. Hope was renewed,<br /></span> +<span>With blessing and bliss, for the sufferers of burning.<br /></span> +<span>The Son was victorious on that fateful journey,</span><span class="linenum">150</span><br /> +<span>Mighty and happy,<a name="FNanchor_21_121" id="FNanchor_21_121"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_21_121" class="fnanchor">[21]</a> when He came with a +many,<a name="FNanchor_22_122" id="FNanchor_22_122"></a> +<a href="#Footnote_22_122" class="fnanchor">[22]</a><br /></span> +<span>With a band of spirits to the kingdom of God,<br /></span> +<span>The Ruler Almighty, for joy to the angels<br /></span> +<span>And to all the saints, who in Heaven before<br /></span> +<span>In glory dwelt, when their Ruler came,</span><span class="linenum">155</span><br /> +<span>Almighty God, where was His home.<br /></span> +</div></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_1_101" id="Footnote_1_101"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_1_101">[1]</a> <i>Feowere</i>, +B.'s emendation for MS. <i>fægere</i>, 'fair.'</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_2_102" id="Footnote_2_102"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_2_102">[2]</a> Silken cords, or tassels, +W.; sailyards, ropes, in Hall and Sweet.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_3_103" id="Footnote_3_103"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_3_103">[3]</a> <i>Wealdendes</i>, S.'s +emendation for MS. <i>wealdes</i>, 'wood'; so Kl.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_4_104" id="Footnote_4_104"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_4_104">[4]</a> Sty, 'mount,' common in Middle English.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_5_105" id="Footnote_5_105"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_5_105">[5]</a> Here and below W. gives +the corresponding verses from the Ruthwell +Cross. They will also be found in Stopford Brooke's "Early English Literature," +p. 337, <i>q.v.</i></p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_6_106" id="Footnote_6_106"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_6_106">[6]</a> Gr. changes MS. +<i>nænigum</i> to <i>ænigum</i> and others follow; W. as MS.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_7_107" id="Footnote_7_107"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_7_107">[7]</a> <i>Forð-eode</i>, +not <i>for-ðeode</i>, 'overcame,' as Sw. W.'s note is an oversight.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_8_108" id="Footnote_8_108"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_8_108">[8]</a> MS. <i>to þam +æðelinge</i>. Sw. follows Ruthwell Cross, <i>æðele to anum</i>.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_9_109" id="Footnote_9_109"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_9_109">[9]</a> <i>Banan</i> must be +taken as gen. pl.; B. reads <i>banana</i>; Sw. thinks it "a +mistake for some other [word], possibly <i>beorg</i>," and takes <i>banan</i> as gen. +sing. referring to the cross, though he adds, "this is very improbable." +Truly so, as the cross is speaking.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_10_110" id="Footnote_10_110"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_10_110">[10]</a> <i>Maete werode</i>, +lit., 'with a small band,' but it means 'by himself.'</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_11_111" id="Footnote_11_111"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_11_111">[11]</a> <i>Greotende</i> +is Gr.'s emendation for MS. <i>reotende</i>; B. <i>hreotende</i>; K. <i>geotende</i>; +Sw. as Gr.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_12_112" id="Footnote_12_112"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_12_112">[12]</a> <i>Stefn</i> is +Kl.'s emendation to fill <i>lacuna</i>. W. prefers it, but does not +think it convincing.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_13_113" id="Footnote_13_113"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_13_113">[13]</a> <i>Us</i> here must +refer to the <i>three</i> crosses, that of Christ and those of the +two thieves.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_14_114" id="Footnote_14_114"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_14_114">[14]</a> This half-line is Gr.'s +emendation to fill <i>lacuna</i> in MS. Sw. and W. +leave it blank.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_15_115" id="Footnote_15_115"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_15_115">[15]</a> Or, 'of the wicked,' +'of criminals.'</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_16_116" id="Footnote_16_116"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_16_116">[16]</a> I have used this Middle +English word for sake of the alliteration.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_17_117" id="Footnote_17_117"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_17_117">[17]</a> Sw.'s text ends here. It +was translated a few years ago in <i>Poet-Lore</i> +as if it were the whole poem.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_18_118" id="Footnote_18_118"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_18_118">[18]</a> MS. <i>holmwudu</i>; K. +<i>holtwudu</i>, and so Gr. with (?).</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_19_119" id="Footnote_19_119"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_19_119">[19]</a> MS. <i>unforht</i>, but +Gr.'s <i>anforht</i> suits the sense better.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_20_120" id="Footnote_20_120"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_20_120">[20]</a> <i>i.e.</i>, 'by myself.' +See on 69.</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_21_121" id="Footnote_21_121"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_21_121">[21]</a> Lit., 'speedy,' 'successful.'</p></div> + +<div class="footnote"><p><a name="Footnote_22_122" id="Footnote_22_122"></a> +<a href="#FNanchor_22_122">[22]</a> A company, a crowd; common +in Middle English.</p></div> + + + + + + + + + +<pre> + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Elene; Judith; Athelstan, or the Fight +at Brunanburh; Byrhtnoth, or the Fight at Maldon; and the Dream of the Rood, by Anonymous + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK ELENE AND OTHERS *** + +***** This file should be named 15879-h.htm or 15879-h.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + https://www.gutenberg.org/1/5/8/7/15879/ + +Produced by David Starner, Annika Feilbach and the Online +Distributed Proofreading Team. 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You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: Elene; Judith; Athelstan, or the Fight at Brunanburh; Byrhtnoth, or the Fight at Maldon; and the Dream of the Rood + Anglo-Saxon Poems + +Author: Anonymous + +Translator: James M. Garnett + +Release Date: May 23, 2005 [EBook #15879] + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ASCII + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK ELENE AND OTHERS *** + + + + +Produced by David Starner, Annika Feilbach and the Online +Distributed Proofreading Team. (www.pgdp.net) + + + + + + + + + +ELENE; + +JUDITH; + +ATHELSTAN, OR THE FIGHT AT BRUNANBURH; + +BYRHTNOTH, OR THE FIGHT AT MALDON; + +AND + +THE DREAM OF THE ROOD: + +Anglo-Saxon Poems. + + +TRANSLATED BY + +JAMES M. GARNETT, M.A., LL.D., + +FORMERLY PROFESSOR OF THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE IN THE +UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA; TRANSLATOR OF "BEOWULF." + + +_THIRD EDITION._ + + +BOSTON, U.S.A.: +GINN & COMPANY, PUBLISHERS. +The Athenaeum Press. +1911. + + +Entered, according to Act of Congress, in the year 1889, by +JAMES M. GARNETT, +In the Office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington. + +COPYRIGHT, 1900, BY +JAMES M. GARNETT. + +COPYRIGHT, 1911, BY +JAMES M. GARNETT. + +ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. + + + + +TO PROFESSOR FRANCIS A. MARCH + +CORYPHAEUS OF OLD ENGLISH STUDIES IN AMERICA + +WITH SENTIMENTS OF THE HIGHEST REGARD + + + + +CONTENTS. + + + PAGE + +PREFACE vii + +INTRODUCTION ix + + * * * * * + +ELENE. + + I. Constantine sees the vision of the rood 1 + + II. Constantine is victorious, the sign is explained, and he is + baptized 4 + + III. Helena sets out on her journey in search of the cross, and + arrives at Jerusalem 7 + + IV. Helena summons an assembly of the Jews learned in the law, + and addresses them 10 + + V. The Jews consult apart, and Judas states the object of the + Empress 13 + + VI. Judas gives the Jews the information derived from his + father and grandfather 16 + + VII. The Jews at first refuse to act, but finally deliver up + Judas to the Empress 19 + +VIII. Judas stubbornly denies all knowledge of the matter, but + after imprisonment without food consents to speak 21 + + IX. They proceed to Calvary, and Judas offers a prayer for + guidance 24 + + X. A smoke arises, Judas digs and finds three crosses. Test of + the true cross 27 + + XI. The fiend laments that he is overcome. Judas replies to him 30 + + XII. Helena announces the discovery to Constantine, who orders a + church to be built on the spot. Judas is baptized 32 + +XIII. Judas is ordained bishop of Jerusalem, and his name is + changed to Cyriacus. Helena longs to recover the nails. + Judas prays, digs, and finds them 35 + + XIV. The nails are made into a bit for Constantine's horse. + Helena admonishes all to obey Cyriacus and returns home 38 + + XV. The writer reflects on his work, records his name; and + refers to the future judgment 41 + + + * * * * * + +JUDITH. + + IX. * * * * * * * * * * + Holofernes prepares a banquet 44 + + X. Holofernes and his guests carouse. Judith is brought to his + tent. Holofernes enters and falls on his bed in a drunken + sleep. Judith prays for help, and cuts off the head of + Holofernes 45 + + XI. Judith returns with the head of Holofernes to Bethulia. The + people meet her in crowds. She exhorts the warriors to + sally forth at dawn. They fall upon the Assyrians 49 + + XII. The Assyrians discover the death of Holofernes and become + panic-stricken. The Hebrews pursue them in flight, plunder + the slain, and bestow upon Judith the arms and treasure of + Holofernes 53 + + * * * * * + +ATHELSTAN, OR THE FIGHT AT BRUNANBURH. + +Athelstan and Edmund, with their West-Saxons and Mercians, +slaughter the Scots and Northmen. Constantine and his Scots flee +to their homes in the North. Anlaf and his Northmen flee across +the sea to Dublin. Athelstan and Edmund return home in triumph, +and leave the corpses to the raven, the eagle, and the wolf 57 + + * * * * * + +BYRHTNOTH, OR THE FIGHT AT MALDON. + +* * * * * * * * * * * +Byrhtnoth and his East-Saxons are drawn up on the bank of the +Panta. The wikings' herald demands tribute. Byrhtnoth angrily +offers arms for tribute. Wulfstan defends the bridge. Byrhtnoth +proudly permits the wikings to cross. The fight rages. Byrhtnoth +is wounded. He slays the foe. He is wounded again. He prays to +God to receive his soul, and is hewn down by the heathen men. +Godric flees on Byrhtnoth's horse. His brothers follow him. +AElfwine encourages the men to avenge the death of their lord. So +does Offa, who curses Godric. Leofsunu will avenge his lord or +perish. Dunnere also. Others follow their example. Offa is slain +and many warriors. The fight still rages. The aged Byrhtwold +exhorts them to be the braver as they become the fewer. So does +another Godric, not he who fled. * * * * 60 + + * * * * * + +THE DREAM OF THE ROOD. + +In the middle of the night the writer beholds the vision of a +cross decked with gold and jewels, but soiled with blood. +Presently the cross speaks and tells how it was hewn and set up +on a mount. Almighty God ascended it to redeem mankind. It bent +not, but the nails made grievous wounds, and it was moistened +with blood. All creation wept. The corse was placed in a +sepulchre of brightest stone. The crosses were buried, but the +thanes of the Lord raised it begirt with gold and silver, and it +should receive honor from all mankind. The Lord of Glory honored +it, who arose for help to men, and shall come again with His +angels to judge each one of men. Then they will fear and know not +what to say, but no one need fear who bears in his heart the best +of beacons. The writer is ready for his journey, and directs his +prayer to the rood. His friends now dwell in glory, and the rood +of the Lord will bring him there where he may partake of joy with +the saints. The Lord redeemed us, His Son was victorious, and +with a band of spirits entered His heavenly home 71 + + + + +PREFACE. + + +This translation of the ELENE was made while reading the poem with a +post-graduate student in the session of 1887-88, Zupitza's second +edition being used for the text, which does not differ materially from +that in his third edition (1888). It was completed before I received a +copy of Dr. Weymouth's translation (1888), from Zupitza's text; but in +the revision for publication I have referred to it, although I cannot +always agree with the learned scholar in his interpretation of certain +passages. Grein's text was, however, used to fill _lacunae_, and in the +revision the recently published (1888) Grein-Wuelker text was compared in +some passages. The line-for-line form has been employed, as in my +translation of BEOWULF; for it has been approved by high authority, and +is unquestionably more serviceable to the student, even if I have not +been able to attain ideal correctness of rhythm. I plead guilty in +advance to any _lapsus_ in that respect, but I strongly suspect that I +have appreciated the difficulty more highly than my future critics. The +ELENE is more suitable than the BEOWULF for first reading in Old English +poetry on account of its style and its subject, which make the +interpretation considerably easier, and I concur with Koerting, in his +_Grundriss der Geschichte der Englischen Litteratur_ (p. 47, 1887): "Die +ELENE eignet sich sowohl wegen ihres anmutigen Inhaltes, als auch, weil +sie in der trefflichen Ausgabe von Zupitza leicht zugaenglich ist, als +erste poetische Lectuere fuer Anfaenger im Angelsaechsischen." This +statement is now the stronger for English readers because Zupitza's text +is in course of publication, edited with introduction, notes, and +glossary by Professor Charles W. Kent, of the University of Tennessee. +I have appended a few notes which explain themselves, and have +occasionally inserted words in brackets. + +The translations of the JUDITH and the BYRHTNOTH were made in regular +course of reading with undergraduate classes, the former in 1886, and +the latter in 1887, the texts in Sweet's "Anglo-Saxon Reader" being +used, and compared with those in Grein and in Koerner. The text of JUDITH +is now accessible in Professor Cook's edition (1888). + +The translation of the ATHELSTAN has been added from Koerner's text, +compared with Grein and Wuelker, and in certain passages with Thorpe and +Earle. For fuller literary information than the Introduction provides, +the reader is referred to ten Brink's "Early English Literature," +Kennedy's translation (1883), and to Morley's "English Writers," Vol. +II. (1888). + +JAMES M. GARNETT. + +UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA, VA., +May, 1889. + + + + +PREFACE TO EDITION OF 1900. + + +I have added to this reprint of my "Elene and other Anglo Saxon Poems" a +translation of the DREAM OF THE ROOD, which has been on hand for several +years awaiting a suitable time to see the light. A brief Introduction to +the poem has been prefixed, which, doubtless, leaves much to be desired, +but it is all that the translator now has time for, and I must refer to +the works mentioned for fuller information and discussion. With thanks +for past consideration, and the hope that this addition has made the +book more acceptable, I entrust it again to indulgent readers. + +JAMES M. GARNETT. + +BALTIMORE, MARYLAND, +October, 1900. + + + + +PREFACE TO EDITION OF 1911. + + +I have read over carefully these translations with a view to another +reprint, which the publishers find necessary, but I have not compared +them again with the texts used. I have corrected a few typographical +errors of little importance. + +For the bibliography I would refer to Brandl's _Sonderausgabe aus der +zweiten Auflage von Paul's Grundriss der germanischen Philologie_ +(Strassburg, 1908), in which I find noted Holthausen's edition of the +ELENE (Heidelberg, 1905), but I have not seen it. + +I take advantage of this opportunity to say that my translation of +BEOWULF, of which the last reprint was issued in 1910, is not in +_prose_, as some have misconceived it, but it is in the same metrical +form as the translations in the present volume,--an accentual metre in +rough imitation of the original. I agree with Professor Gummere and +others that this is a better form for the translation of Old English +poetry than plain prose. It was approved by the late Professor Child +nearly _thirty_ years ago, as noted in the Preface to the second edition +of my translation of BEOWULF, January, 1885. + +JAMES M. GARNETT. + +BALTIMORE, MARYLAND, +February, 1911. + + + + +INTRODUCTION. + + +In presenting to the public the following translations of the Old +English (Anglo-Saxon) poems, ELENE, JUDITH, ATHELSTAN, BYRHTNOTH, and +THE DREAM OF THE ROOD, it is desirable to prefix a brief account of them +for the information of the general reader. + +I. The ELENE, or Helena, is a poem on the expedition of the Empress +Helena, mother of Constantine the Great, the first Christian emperor, to +Palestine in search of the true cross, and its successful issue. The +mediaeval legend of the Finding of the Cross is given in the _Acta +Sanctorum_ under date of May 4, assigned by the Church to the +commemoration of St. Helena's marvellous discovery. The Latin work is +the Life of St. Quiriacus, or Cyriacus, Bishop of Jerusalem, that is, +the Judas of the poem. It has been usually thought that the Old English +poet used this Life as his source; but Gloede, in a recent volume of +_Anglia_ (IX. 271 ff.), has given reasons for thinking that the poet +used some other Latin text. He rejects ten Brink's conjecture that the +legend of Elene had come to England in a Greek form. As to the author of +the poem, we know his name, but very little else about him. He has left +us his name, imbedded in runic letters as an acrostic, in the last canto +of the poem, q.v. These letters spell the word CYNEWULF; but who was +Cynewulf? The question is hard to answer, and has given rise to much +discussion, which cannot be gone into here. A good summary of it will be +found in Wuelker's _Grundriss zur Geschichte der Angelsaechsischen +Litteratur_ (p. 147 ff., 1885), an indispensable work for students of +Old English literature. The old view, propounded in the infancy of +Anglo-Saxon studies, and held by Kemble, Thorpe, and, doubtfully, +Wright, that he was the Abbot of Peterborough and Bishop of Winchester +(992-1008), has been abandoned by all scholars, so far as I know, except +Professor Earle of Oxford (see his "Anglo-Saxon Literature," p. 228). +The later view of Leo, Dietrich, Grein and Rieger, our chief +authorities, that he was a Northumbrian, and of Dietrich and Grein, that +he was Bishop of Lindisfarne (737-780), has more to be said for it. +Sweet and ten Brink also hold that he was a Northumbrian of the eighth +century, but not the Bishop of Lindisfarne, while Wuelker regards him as +a West-Saxon. Professor Henry Morley, in the current edition of his +"English Writers," has devoted a chapter (Vol. II. Chap. IX., 1888) to +Cynewulf, and virtually concludes that we know nothing about him except +that he was a poet and probably lived in the eighth century. We shall +not go far wrong in regarding him as a Northumbrian poet of the eighth +century, possibly the Bishop of Lindisfarne, even though his works +remain to us only in the West-Saxon dialect. As in the ELENE, so in the +CHRIST and the JULIANA, Cynewulf has left us his name, hence all agree +in ascribing to him these poems at least. To these some of the RIDDLES, +if not all, are usually added, but this is now contested. Other poems, +as the GUTHLAC, PHOENIX, CHRIST'S DESCENT INTO HELL, ANDREAS, DREAM OF +THE ROOD, and several other shorter poems, have been ascribed to him +with more or less probability, and very recently Sarrazin (in _Anglia_, +IX. 515 ff.) would credit him with the authorship of even the +BEOWULF(!). We might as well assign to him, as has been suggested, all +the poems in the two great manuscripts, the Exeter Book and the Vercelli +Book, and be done with it. It is desirable that his authorship of the +DREAM OF THE ROOD, which ten Brink and Sweet assign to him, but Wuelker +rejects, should be proved or disproved; for with this is connected the +question of his Northumbrian origin, and some lines from this poem have +been inscribed in the Northumbrian dialect on the Ruthwell Cross in +Dumfriesshire. + +However it may be, a poet named Cynewulf wrote the ELENE, and thereby +left us one of the finest Old English poems that time has preserved, on +a subject that was of great interest to Christian Europe. A collection +of "Legends of the Holy Rood" has been issued by the Early English Text +Society (ed. Morris, 1871), from the Anglo-Saxon period to Caxton's +translation of the _Legenda Aurea_; but they are arranged without +system, and no study has been made of the date and relation of the +several forms of the story. If Cynewulf made use of the Latin Life of +Cyriacus in the _Acta Sanctorum_, he expanded his source considerably +and showed great skill and originality in his treatment of the subject, +as may be seen by comparing the translation with the Latin text in +Zupitza's third edition of the ELENE (1888), or in Professor Kent's +forthcoming American edition, after Zupitza. The Old English text was +discovered by a German scholar, Dr. F. Blume, at Vercelli, Italy, in +1822, and the manuscript has since become well known as the Vercelli +Book (cf. Wuelker's _Grundriss_, p. 237 ff.). A reasonable conjecture as +to how this MS. reached Vercelli may be found in Professor Cook's +pamphlet, "Cardinal Guala and the Vercelli Book." A Bibliography of the +ELENE will be found in Wuelker, Zupitza, and Kent. English translations +have been made by Kemble, in his edition of the Codex Vercellensis +(1856), and very recently by Dr. R.F. Weymouth, Acton, England, after +Zupitza's text (privately printed, 1888). A German translation will be +found in Grein's _Dichtungen der Angelsachsen_ (II. 104 ff., 1859), and +of lines 1-275 in Koerner's _Einleitung in das Studium des +Angelsaechsischen_ (p. 147 ff., 1880). A good summary of the poem is +given in Earle's "Anglo-Saxon Literature" (p. 234 ff., 1884), and a +briefer one in Morley's "English Writers" (II. 196 ff.). + +The ELENE is conceded to be Cynewulf's best poem, and ten Brink remarks +of the ANDREAS and the ELENE: "In these Cynewulf appears, perhaps, at +the summit of his art" (p. 58, Kennedy's translation). The last canto is +a personal epilogue, of a sad and reflective character, evidently +appended after the poem proper was concluded. This may be the last work +of the poet, and there is good reason for ten Brink's view (p. 59) that +"not until the writing of the ELENE had Cynewulf entirely fulfilled the +task he had set himself in consequence of his vision of the cross. Hence +he recalls, at the close of the poem, the greatest moment of his life, +and praises the divine grace that gave him deeper knowledge, and +revealed to him the art of song." + +II. The JUDITH is a fragment, but a very torso of Hercules. The first +nine cantos, nearly three-fourths of the poem, are irretrievably lost, +so that we have left but the last three cantos with a few lines of the +ninth. The story is from the apocryphal book of Judith, and the part +remaining corresponds to chapters XII. 10 to XVI. 1, but the poet has +failed to translate the grand thanksgiving of Judith in the sixteenth +chapter. The story of Judith and Holofernes is too well known to need +narration. The poet, doubtless, followed the Latin Vulgate, as we have +no reason to think that a knowledge of Greek was a common possession +among Old English poets; but, as Professor Cook says, "the order of +events is not that of the original narrative. Many transpositions have +been made in the interest of condensation and for the purpose of +enhancing the dramatic liveliness of the story." + +The Old English text is found in the same manuscript with the BEOWULF +(Cotton, Vitellius, A, xv.), and, to my mind, this poem reminds the +reader more of the vigor and fire of BEOWULF than does any other Old +English poem; but its author is unknown. It has been assigned by some +scholars to the tenth century, which is rather late for it; but +Professor Cook has given reasons for thinking that it may have been +written in the second half of the ninth century in honor of Judith, the +step-mother of King Alfred. It was first printed as prose by Thwaites at +the close of his "Heptateuch, Book of Job, and Gospel of Nicodemus" +(1698), and has been often reprinted, its shortness and excellence +making it a popular piece for inclusion in Anglo-Saxon Readers. A most +complete edition has been recently (1888) issued by Professor Albert S. +Cook, with an excellent introduction, a translation, and a glossary. A +Bibliography is given by Professor Cook (pp. 71-73), and by Wuelker +(_Grundriss_, p. 140 ff.). To the translations therein enumerated may be +added the one in Morley's "English Writers" (II. 180 ff.). Professor +Cook has also given (pp. lxix-lxxii) the testimonies of scholars to the +worth of this poem. To these the attention of the reader is especially +called. The JUDITH has been treated by both ten Brink and Wuelker as +belonging to the Caedmon circle, but the former well says (p. 47): "This +fragment produces an impression more like that of the national epos than +is the case with any other religious poetry of that epoch;" and Sweet +(Reader, p. 157) regards it as belonging "to the culminating point of +the Old Northumbrian literature, combining as it does the highest +dramatic and constructive power with the utmost brilliance of language +and metre." + +III. The ATHELSTAN, or Fight at Brunanburh, is found in four manuscripts +of the "Anglo-Saxon Chronicle" and in Wheloc's edition (1643), printed +from a MS. that was burnt in the unfortunate fire among the Cottonian +manuscripts (1731). It is entered under the year 937 in all but one MS., +where it occurs under 938. The poem gives a brief, but graphic, +description of the fight between King Athelstan and his brother Edmund +on the one side, and Constantine and his Scots aided by Anlaf and his +Danes, or Northmen, on the other, in which fight the Saxons were +completely victorious. The poem will be found in all editions of the +"Anglo-Saxon Chronicle" from Wheloc to Earle (1865), and has been +repeatedly reprinted, its brevity causing it to be often included as a +specimen of Old English, but it is omitted in Sweet's Reader. A +Bibliography will be found in Wuelker's _Grundriss_ (p. 339 ff.). To the +English translations there mentioned,--which include a poetical one by +Lord Tennyson, after a prose translation by his son in the Contemporary +Review for November, 1876,--may be added the prose translation by +Kennedy in ten Brink (p. 91) and the rhythmical one by Professor Morley +in his "English Writers" (II. 316-17). ten Brink thinks that the poem +was not written by an eye-witness, and says (p. 92): "The poem lacks the +epic perception and direct power of the folk-song as well as invention. +The patriotic enthusiasm, however, upon which it is borne, the lyrical +strain which pervades it, yield their true effect. The rich resources +derived from the national epos are here happily utilised, and the pure +versification and brilliant style of the whole stir our admiration." It +well serves to diversify and enliven the usually dry annals of the +"Anglo-Saxon Chronicle," and cannot be spared in the great dearth of +poetry of this period. + +IV. The BYRHTNOTH, or Fight at Maldon, relates in vigorous verse the +contest between the Saxons, led by the Ealdorman Byrhtnoth, and the +Danes at the river Panta, near Maldon in Essex, in which the Danes were +victorious and Byrhtnoth was slain. The incident is mentioned in four +manuscripts of the "Anglo-Saxon Chronicle" under the year 991, but one +gives it under 993. The MS. in which the poem was contained was +unfortunately burnt in the great fire above-mentioned (1731); but Thomas +Hearne, the antiquary, had fortunately printed it, as prose, in his +edition, of the Chronicle of John of Glastonbury (1726); hence this is +now our sole authority for the text, which is defective at both the +beginning and the end. The poem has been highly esteemed by scholars, +and is a very valuable relic of late tenth century literature. It has +been often reprinted, and translated several times in whole or in part. +Grein does not translate either the ATHELSTAN or the BYRHTNOTH. Koerner +translates it in full, and so does Zernial in his Program "Das Lied von +Byrhtnoth's Fall" (1882). This monograph contains the fullest study of +the poem that has been made. It is translated into English, with some +omissions, by Kennedy in ten Brink (pp. 93-96); it is barely mentioned +by Earle (p. 147), and a summary of it is given by Morley in "English +Writers" (II. 319-320). A Bibliography will be found in Wuelker's +_Grundriss_ (pp. 344-5). An edition of both ATHELSTAN and BYRHTNOTH has +been long announced in the "Library of Anglo-Saxon Poetry," but it has +not yet appeared.[1] Sweet says of the BYRHTNOTH (Reader, p. 138): +"Although the poem does not show the high technical finish of the older +works, it is full of dramatic power and warm feeling"; and ten Brink, +with more enthusiasm, calls it (p. 96) "one of the pearls of Old English +poetry, full, as it is, of dramatic life, and fidelity of an +eye-witness. Its deep feeling throbs in the clear and powerful +portrayal." He recognizes, however, "the tokens of metrical decline, of +the dissolution of ancient art-forms." + + [1] Crow's "Maldon and Brunnanburh," 1897. + +V. The DREAM OF THE ROOD is found in the Vercelli manuscript. Wuelker's +_Grundriss_ gives the literature of the subject to the time of its +publication (1885). Soon afterwards Morley's "English Writers," Vol. +II., appeared (1888), in which an English translation is given (pp. +237-241); also Stopford Brooke, in his "History of Early English +Literature" (1892), has given an account of the poem, with partial +translation and epitome (pp. 436-443). (See also p. 337 and pp. 384-386 +for further notice.) The poem is very briefly mentioned by Trautmann in +his monograph on Cynewulf (1898, p. 40). There are some very interesting +questions connected with the poem which cannot be discussed here. Was it +by Cynewulf? On the affirmative side we find Dietrich, Rieger, Grein, +ten Brink, D'Ham, and Sweet. On the negative, Wuelker, Ebert, Trautmann, +Stephens, Morley, Brooke, and others. Pacius, who edited the text, with +a German translation, in 1873, thinks that we know nothing about the +poet. Brooke has propounded a theory, previously adumbrated by the +editors of the _Corpus Poeticum Boreale_, Vigfusson and Powell, that an +older poem, possibly of Caedmonian origin, as shown by the long +six-accent lines, has been worked over by Cynewulf, with additions, and +that it is "his last work" (p. 440). Certain lines of the poem, in the +Northumbrian dialect, are found on the Ruthwell Cross, which fact +complicates the question of origin. These are compared by Brooke (p. +337). The other upholders of the Cynewulfian authorship think that this +Dream, occurring in the early part of Cynewulf's religious life, led to +the longer and more highly finished poem, the ELENE, written near the +close of his life. The questions of the relationship of the poem to the +Ruthwell Cross and to the ELENE deserve further discussion. With these +is connected the question of date, and the poem has been placed all the +way from 700 to 800 A.D., even a little before and a little after, +possibly 675 to 825 A.D., so as yet there is no common agreement. The +similarity of thought in the personal epilogue (II. 122 ff.) to the +epilogue of the ELENE (II. 1237 ff.) is striking, and they may be +compared by the curious reader. The translation is made from the +Grein-Wuelker text (Vol. II., pp. 116-125), with emendations from others, +as seen in the notes. All can agree with Kemble (_Codex Vercellensis_, +Part II., p. ix) that "it is in some respects the most striking of all +the Anglo-Saxon remains, inasmuch as a departure from the mere +conventional style of such compositions is very perceptible in it. It +contains some passages of real poetical beauty, and a good deal of +fancy." Brooke says (op. cit., p. 443): "This is the last of the +important poems of the eighth century. It is good, but not very good. +The older part, if my conjecture be right, is the best, and its +reworking by Cynewulf has so broken it up that its dignity is much +damaged. The shaping is rude, but the imagination has indeed shaped +it." ten Brink says (p. 53): "Cynewulf himself has immortalized this +vision in a poem, giving utterance to an irrepressible emotion, but +still exhibiting the delicate lines of a beautifully designed +composition." The other Germans are usually so taken up with technical +and mechanical questions that they leave no room for aesthetic +considerations. Whether Cynewulf wrote the poem or not,--and the +probabilities favor his authorship, though we may not hesitate to say +with Morley, "I don't know,"--it is certainly the work of a gifted +Christian poet, who reverences the cross as the means of the redemption +of mankind. + +This brief Introduction will, it is hoped, be sufficient to interest the +reader in the accompanying translations of some of the finest pieces of +Old English poetry that remain to us from the eighth, ninth, and tenth +centuries. The earlier period was the golden age of Old English poetry +in the Northumbrian dialect, which poetry, there is good reason to +think, was copied into the West-Saxon dialect, and it now remains to us +only in that form; for, when the Northmen harried Northumbria, destroyed +its monasteries, massacred its inhabitants, and settled in its homes, +manuscripts perished, and the light of learning in Western Europe was +extinguished. It is sufficient to recall King Alfred's oft-quoted +lament, in the Preface to his translation of Pope Gregory's "Pastoral +Care," to realize the position held by Northumbria in respect to +culture, and when learning was restored in Wessex by the efforts of the +king himself, and poetry again revived, it shone but by a reflected +light. Still we should treasure all that remains, and the Old English +language should be at least as well known as Latin is now, and should +occupy as prominent a position in education and general culture. Until +that millennial period arrives, translations of Old English poems may +not be without service. + + +ABBREVIATIONS IN NOTES. + + +B. = Bouterwek; +C. = Cook; +Gm. = Grimm; +Gn. = Grein; +K. = Kemble; +Kl. = Kluge; +Kr. = Koerner; +S. = Sievers; +Sw. = Sweet; +Th. = Thorpe; +W. = Wuelker; +Z. = Zupitza; +Zl. = Zernial. + + + + +CYNEWULF'S ELENE. + + +I. + +When had elapsed in course of years +Two hundred and three, reckoned by number, +And thirty also, in measure of time, +Of winters for th' world, since mighty God +Became incarnate, of kings the Glory, 5 +Upon mid-earth in human form, +Light of the righteous; then sixth was the year +Of Constantine's imperial sway, +Since he o'er the realm of the Roman people, +The battle-prince, as ruler was raised. 10 +The ward of his folk, skilful with shield, +Was gracious to earls. Strong grew the aetheling's[1] +Might 'neath the heavens. He was true king, +War-keeper of men. God him strengthened +With honor and might, that to many became he 15 +Throughout this earth to men a joy, +To nations a vengeance, when weapon he raised +Against his foes. Him battle was offered, +Tumult of war. A host was assembled, +Folk of the Huns and fame-loving Goths; 20 +War-brave they went, the Franks and the Hugs.[2] +Bold were the men [in battle-byrnies, Gn.], +Ready for war. Bright shone the spears, +The ringed corselets. With shouts and shields +They hoisted the standards. The heroes were there 25 +Plainly assembled, and [host, Gn.] all together. +The multitude marched. A war-song howled +The wolf in the wood, war-secret concealed not; +The dew-feathered eagle uplifted his song +On the trail of his foes. Hastened quickly 30 +O'er cities of giants[3] the greatest of war-hosts +In bands to battle, such as king of the Huns +Of dwellers-around anywhere might, +Of city-warriors, assemble to war. +Went greatest of armies,--the footmen were strengthened 35 +With chosen bands,--till in foreign land +The fighters-with-darts upon the Danube's +Bank were encamping, the brave in heart, +'Round the welling of waters, with tumult of host. +The realm of the Romans they wished to oppress, 40 +With armies destroy. There was Huns' coming +Known to the people. Then bade the Caesar +Against the foes his comrades in war +'Neath arrow-flight in greatest haste +Gather for fight, form battle-array 45 +The heroes 'neath heavens. The Romans were, +Men famed for victory, quickly prepared +With weapons for war, though lesser army +Had they for the battle than king of the Huns.[4] +They rode 'round the valiant: then rattled the shield, 50 +The war-wood clanged: the king with host marched, +With army to battle. Aloft sang the raven, +Dark and corpse-greedy. The band was in motion. +The horn-bearers blew,[5] the heralds called, +Steed stamped the earth. The host assembled 55 +Quickly for contest. The king was affrighted, +With terror disturbed, after the strangers, +The Huns' and Hreths' host they[6] observed, +That it[7] on the Romans' kingdom's border +'Round the bank of the river a band assembled, 60 +A countless crowd. Heart-sorrow bore +The Romans' ruler, of realm he hoped not +For want of force; had warriors too few, +Trusty comrades, 'gainst th' overmight +Of the brave for battle. The army encamped, 65 +The earls 'round the aetheling nigh to the river +In neighboring plain a night-long time, +After force of their foes they first beheld. +Then in his sleep was shown to him, +To the Caesar himself where he slept 'mid his men, 70 +By the victory-famed seen, a vision of dream. +Effulgent it seemed him, in form of a man, +White and hue-bright, some one of heroes +More splendid appeared than ere or since +He saw 'neath the heavens. From sleep he awaked 75 +With boar-sign bedecked. The messenger quickly, +Bright herald of glory, to him made address +And called him by name (the night-veil vanished): +"To thee, Constantine, bade King of the angels, +Wielder of fates, his favor grant, 80 +The Lord of Hosts. Fear not for thyself, +Though thee the strangers threaten with terror, +With battle severe. Look thou to heaven, +To the Lord of glory: there help wilt thou find, +A token of victory." Soon was he ready 85 +At hest of the holy, his heart-lock unloosed, +Upwards he looked as the messenger bade him, +Trusty peace-weaver. He saw bright with gems +Fair rood of glory o'er roof of the clouds +Adorned with gold: the jewels shone, 90 +The glittering tree with letters was written +Of brightness and light: "With this beacon thou +On the dangerous journey[8] wilt the foe overcome, +The loathly host let." The light then departed, +Ascended on high, and the messenger too, 95 +To the realm of the pure. The king was the blither +And freer from sorrow, chieftain of men, +In thoughts of his soul, for that fair sight. + + [1] Prince's. + + [2] MS. '_Huns_,' but Z. reads '_Hugs_.' Cf. W. + + [3] 'O'er land of Burgundians,' Gn. + + [4] Z. has no point, W. puts (;), Gn. (.) + + [5] 'Hurried,' Z.^3 + + [6] 'He,' W. + + [7] 'Which,' Z. + + [8] 'In the terrible danger,' Gn. + + +II. + +Bade then a likeness[1] defender of aethelings, +Ring-giver of heroes, to that beacon he saw, 100 +Leader of armies, that in heaven before +To him had appeared, with greatest haste +[Bade] Constantine [like] the rood of Christ, +The glorious king, a token make. +He bade then at dawn with break of day 105 +His warriors rouse and onset of battle, +The standard raise, and that holy tree +Before him carry, 'mid host of foes +God's beacon bear. The trumpets sang +Aloud 'fore the hosts. The raven rejoiced,[2] 110 +The dew-feathered eagle beheld the march, +Fight of the fierce cries, the wolf raised his howl, +The wood's frequenter. War-terror arose. +There was shattering of shields and mingling of men, +Heavy handstroke and felling of foes, 115 +After in arrow-flight first they had met. +On the fated folk showers of darts, +Spears over shields into hosts of foes, +Sword-fierce foemen battle-adders +With force of fingers forwards impelled. 120 +The strong-hearted stepped, pressed onwards at once, +Broke the shield-covers, thrust in their swords, +Battle-brave hastened. Then standard was raised, +Sign 'fore the host, song of victory sung. +The golden helmet, the spear-points glistened 125 +On field of battle. The heathen perished, +Peaceless they fell. Forthwith they fled, +The folk of the Huns, when that holy tree +The king of the Romans bade raise on high, +Fierce in the fight. The warriors became 130 +Widely dispersed. Some war took away; +Some with labor their lives preserved +Upon that march; some half-alive +Fled to the fastness and life protected +Behind the stone-cliffs, held their abode 135 +Around the Danube; some drowning took off +In the stream of the river at the end of their life. +Then was of the proud ones the force in joy; +They followed the foreigners forth until even +From break of day. The ash-darts flew, 140 +Battle-adders. The heap was destroyed,[3] +Shield-band of foes. Very few came +Of the host of the Huns home again thence. +Then it was plain that victory gave +To Constantine the King Almighty 145 +In the work of that day, glorious honor, +Might 'neath the heavens, through the tree of his rood. +Went helmet of hosts home again thence, +In booty rejoicing (the battle was ended), +Honored in war. Came warriors' defence 150 +With band of his thanes to deck the strong shield,[4] +War-renowned king, to visit his cities. +Bade warriors' ward the wisest men +Swiftly to synod, who wisdom's craft +Through writings of old had learnt to know, 155 +Held in their hearts counsels of heroes. +Then that gan inquire chief of the folk, +Victory-famed king, throughout the wide crowd, +If any there were, elder or younger, +Who him in truth was able to tell, 160 +Make known by speech, what the god were, +The giver of glory,[5] "whose beacon this was, +That seemed me so sheen, and saved my people, +Brightest of beacons, and gave to me glory, +War-speed against foes, through that beautiful tree." 165 +They him any answer at all were unable +To give in reply, nor could they full well +Clearly declare of that victory-sign. +Then did the wisest speak out in words +Before the armed host, that Heaven-king's 170 +Token it was, and of that was no doubt. +When they that heard who in baptism's lore +Instructed had been, light was their mind, +Rejoicing their soul, though of them there were few, +That they 'fore the Caesar might dare to proclaim 175 +The gift of the gospel, how the spirits' Defence, +In form of the Trinity worshipped in glory, +Incarnate became, Brightness of kings,-- +And how on the cross was God's own Son +Hanged 'fore the hosts with hardest pains; 180 +The Son men saved from the bonds of devils, +Sorrowful spirits, and a gift to them gave +Through that same sign that appeared to him +Before his own eyes the token of victory +'Gainst onset of nations; and how the third day 185 +From out of the tomb the Glory of heroes, +From death, arose, the Lord of all +The race of mankind, and to Heaven ascended. +So with cunning of mind in secrets of soul +They said to the victor as they by Sylvester[6] 190 +Instructed had been. From him the folk-chief +Baptism received, and continued to hold it +For the time of his days at the will of the Lord. + + [1] Lit. 'in like manner,' adv. + + [2] Add 'at the work.' + + [3] 'Diminished,' Gn. + + [4] i.e., with precious stones. Kr. reads '(rattled strong + shields).' + + [5] 'Gold,' Kr. 'Lord of the house,' Gn. Cf. W. + + [6] The Bishop of Rome. + + +III. + +Then was in bliss the giver of treasure, +The battle-brave king. To him was new joy 195 +Inspired in his soul; greatest of comforts +And highest of hopes was heaven's Defence. +Then gan he God's law by day and by night +Through gift of the Spirit with zeal proclaim, +And truly himself devoted he eagerly, 200 +Gold-friend of men, to the service of God, +Spear-famed, unfaltering. Then found the aetheling, +Defence of his folk, through learned men,[1] +War-brave, spear-bold, in books of God, +Where had been hanged with shouts of the host 205 +On tree of the rood the Ruler of heaven +Through envy and hate, just as the old fiend +Misled with his lies, the people deceived, +The race of the Jews, so that God himself +They hanged, Lord of hosts: hence in misery shall they 210 +For ever and ever punishment suffer. +Then praise of Christ by the Caesar was +In the thoughts of his mind[2] always remembered +For that great tree, and his mother he bade +Go on a journey with a band of men 215 +To [land of] the Jews, earnestly seek +With host of warriors where that tree of glory +Holy 'neath earth hidden might be, +The noble King's rood. Helena would not +On that expedition be slow to start, 220 +Nor that joy-giver's command neglect, +Her own [dear] son's, but soon she[3] was ready +For the wished-for journey, as the helmet of men, +Of mail-clad warriors, her had commanded. +Gan then with speed the crowd of earls 225 +Hasten to ship.[4] The steeds of the sea +'Round the shore of the ocean ready were standing, +Cabled sea-horses, at rest on the water. +Then plainly was known the voyage of the lady, +When the welling of waves she sought with her folk. 230 +There many a proud one at Wendel-sea +Stood on the shore. They severally hastened +Over the mark-paths, band after band, +And then they loaded with battle-sarks, +With shields and spears, with mail-clad warriors, 235 +With men and women, the steeds of the sea. +Then they let o'er the billows the foamy ones go, +The high wave-rushers. The hull oft received +O'er the mingling of waters the blows of the waves. +The sea resounded. Not since nor ere heard I 240 +On water-stream a lady lead, +On ocean-street, a fairer force. +There might he see, who that voyage beheld, +Burst o'er the bath-way the sea-wood, hasten +'Neath swelling sails, the sea-horse play, 245 +The wave-floater sail. The warriors were blithe, +Courageous in mind; queen joyed in her journey. +After to haven the ringed-prowed +O'er the sea-fastness had finished their course +To the land of the Greeks, they let the keels 250 +At the shore of the sea beat by the breakers, +The old sea-dwellings at anchor fast, +On the water await the fate of the heroes, +When the warlike queen with her band of men +Over the east-ways should seek them again. 255 +There was on [each] earl easily seen +The braided byrnie and tested sword, +Glittering war-weeds, many a helmet, +Beautiful boar-sign. The spear-warriors were, +Men 'round victor-queen, prepared for the march, 260 +Brave war-heroes. They marched with joy +Into land of the Greeks, the Caesar's heralds, +Battle-warriors with armor protected. +There was to be seen treasure-gem set +'Mid that army-host, gift of their lord. 265 +[Then] was the blessed Helena mindful, +Bold in her thought, of the prince's will, +Eager in mind, in that she of the Jews, +O'er the army-fields with tested band +Of warriors-with-shields, the land was seeking, 270 +With host of men; so it after befell +In little while that that force of men, +War-famed heroes, to Hierusalem[5] +Came to the city the greatest of crowds, +Spear-famed earls, with the noble queen. 275 + + [1] Lit., 'smiths of lore.' + + [2] Z. supposes _lacuna_ of one verse; W. thinks it + unnecessary. + + [3] Lit., 'the woman.' + + [4] Lit., 'to the sea,' or 'sea-journey.' + + [5] A.-S. form retained for the sake of the accent and + alliteration. + + +IV. + +Bade she then order the dwellers-in-city +Most skilled in lore, those far and wide +Among the Jews, each one of men, +For council-talk in meeting to come, +Who most deeply the secrets of God 280 +By righteous law were able to tell. +Then was assembled from distant ways +No little crowd who Moses' law +Were able to tell. In number there were +Of thousands three of those [learned] men 285 +Chosen for lore. The lovely woman +The men of the Hebrews with words gan address: +"I that most surely have learnt to know +Through secret words of prophets [of old] +In the books of God, that in days of yore 290 +Ye worthy were of the glorious King, +Dear to the Lord and daring in deed. +Lo! ye that wisdom [very, Gn.] unwisely, +Wrongly, rejected, when him ye condemned +Who you from the curse through might of his glory, 295 +From torment of fire, thought to redeem, +From fetters' force. Ye filthily spat +On his fair face who light of the eyes +From blindness [restored], a remedy brought +To you anew by that noble spittle, 300 +And often preserved you from the unclean +Spirits of devils. This one to death +Ye gan adjudge, who self from death +Many awakened 'mong host of men +Of your own race to the former life. 305 +So blinded in mind ye gan conjoin +Lying with truth, light with darkness, +Hatred with mercy, with evil thoughts +Ye wickedness wove; therefore the curse +You guilty oppresses. The purest Might 310 +Ye gan condemn, and have lived in error, +In thoughts benighted, until this day. +Go ye now quickly, with prudence select +Men firm in wisdom, crafty in word, +Who your own law, with excellence skilled, 315 +In thoughts of their minds most thoroughly have, +Who to me truly are able to say, +Answer to tell for you henceforth +Of each one of tokens that I from thee seek." +They went then away sorry-in-mind, 320 +The law-clever earls, oppressed with fear, +Sad in their grief, earnestly sought +The wisest men in secrets of words, +That they to the queen might answer well +Both of good and of ill, as she from them sought. 325 +Then they 'mong the host a thousand of men +Found clever in mind who the old story +Among the Jews most readily knew. +Then they pressed in a crowd where in pomp awaited +On kingly throne the Caesar's mother,[1] 330 +Stately war-queen with gold adorned. +Helena spake and said 'fore the earls: +"Hear, clever in mind, the holy secret, +Word and wisdom. Lo! ye the prophets' +Teaching received, how the Life-giver 335 +In form of a child incarnate became, +Ruler of might. Of him Moses sang +And spake this [word],[2] warden of Israel: +'To you shall be born a child in secret +Renowned in might, though his mother shall not 340 +Be filled with fruit through love of a man.' +Of him David the king a kingly psalm sang, +The wise old sage, father of Solomon, +And spake this word, prince of warriors: +'The God of creation before me I saw, 345 +Lord of victories. He was in my sight, +Ruler of hosts, upon my right hand, +Guardian of glory. Thence turn I not +Ever in life my countenance from him.'[3] +So it again of you Isaiah 350 +'Fore the people, the prophet, foretold in words, +Thinking profoundly by spirit of the Lord: +'I raised upon high sons young in years, +And children begat, to whom glory I gave, +Heart-comfort holy: but they me rejected, 355 +With enmity hated, forethought possessed not, +Wisdom of mind, and the wretched cattle, +That on each day one drives and strikes, +Their well-doer know, not at all with revenge +Bear hate to their friends who give them fodder. 360 +And the folk of Israel never were willing +Me to acknowledge, though many for them, +In worldly course, of wonders I wrought.'[4] + + [1] Lit., 'kinswoman.' The Elizabethan 'Kesar' would preserve + the alliteration in this line. + + [2] Gn. and Z. W. omits. + + [3] Psalms xvi. 8, 9. + + [4] Isaiah i. 2, 3. + + +V. + +"Lo! that we heard through holy books, +That the Lord to you gave blameless glory, 365 +The Maker, mights' Speed, to Moses said +How the King of heaven ye should obey, +His teaching perform. Of that ye soon wearied, +And counter to right ye had contended; +Ye shunned the bright Creator of all, 370 +The Lord [of Lords],[1] and followed error +'Gainst right of God. Now quickly go +And find ye still who writings of old +Through craft of wit the best may know, +Your books of law, that answer to me 375 +Through prudent mind they may return." +Went then with a crowd depressed in mind +The proud in heart, as them the queen bade. +Found they five hundred of cunning men, +Chosen comrades, who craft of lore 380 +Through memory of mind the most possessed, +Wisdom in spirit. They back to the hall +In little while again were summoned, +Wards of the city. The queen them gan +With words address (she glanced over all): 385 +"Often ye silly actions performed, +Accursed wretches, and writings despised, +Lore of your fathers, ne'er more than now, +When ye of your blindness the Healer rejected, +And ye contended 'gainst truth and right, 390 +That in Bethlehem the child of the Ruler, +The only-born King, incarnate was, +The Prince of princes. Though the law ye knew, +Words of the prophets, ye were not then willing, +Workers of sin, the truth to confess." 395 +With one mind then they answered her: +"Lo! we the Hebrew law have learned, +That in days of old our fathers knew, +At the ark of God, nor know we well +Why thou so fiercely, lady, with us 400 +Hast angry become. We know not the wrong +That we have done amid this nation, +Chiefest of crimes[2] against thee ever." +Helena said and 'fore the earls spake +Without concealment; the lady proclaimed 405 +Aloud 'fore the hosts: "Now go ye quickly, +Seek out apart who wisdom with you +Might and mindcraft the most may have, +That each of the things they boldly may tell me, +Without delay, that I from them seek." 410 +Went they then from the council as the mighty queen, +Bold in the palace, them had commanded, +Sorry-in-mind eagerly searched they, +With cunning sought, what were the sin +That they in the folk might have committed 415 +Against the Caesar, for which the queen blames them. +Then there 'fore the earls one them addressed, +Cunning in songs (his name was Judas), +Crafty in word: "I surely know, +That she will seek of the victor-tree 420 +On which once suffered the Ruler of nations +Free from all faults, own Son of God, +Whom though guiltless[3] of every sin +Through hatred hanged upon the high tree +In days of old our own fathers. 425 +That was terrible thought. There is now great need +That we with firmness strengthen our minds, +That we of this murder become not informers, +Where the holy tree was hidden away +After the war-storm, lest may be rejected 430 +The wise old writings and of our fathers +The lore be lost. Not long will it be[4] +That of Israelites the noble race +Over the mid-earth may reign any more, +The law-craft of earls, if this be revealed: 435 +That same long ago mine elder father +Victory-famed said (his name was Zacchaeus), +The wise old man, to mine own father, +[Who afterwards made it known to his, Gn.][5] son, +(He went from this world), and spake this word: 440 +'If to thee that happen in the days of thy life, +That thou may'st hear of that holy tree +Wise men inquire and questionings raise +Of that victor-wood on which the true King +Was hanged on high, Guardian of heaven, 445 +Child of all peace, then quickly declare it, +Mine own dear son, ere death thee remove. +Ne'er may after that the folk of the Hebrews, +The wise in counsel, their kingdom hold, +Rule over men, but _their_ fame shall live 450 +And their dominion [be glorified ever, Gn.],[5] +To world of worlds with joy be filled, +Who the King that was hanged honor and praise.' + + [1] Gn., Z., W. + + [2] So W. 'Wrongs have committed,' Gm., Gn. and Z. [?] + + [3] W. + + [4] Add 'after that.' + + [5] _Lacuna_ in MS., emended by Gn. + + +VI. + +"Then quickly I to mine own father, +The old law-sage, answer returned: 455 +'How might that happen on kingdom of earth +That they on the holy their hands should lay +For reaving of life, our own fathers, +Through hostile mind, if they ere knew +That he were Christ, the King in heaven, 460 +True son of Creator, Saviour of souls.' +Then to me mine elder answer returned, +Wise in his mind my father replied: +'Perceive, young man, the might of God, +The name of the Saviour. That is to each man 465 +Unutterable. Him may no one +Upon this earth [ever] find out. +Never that plan that this people framed +Was I willing to follow, but I always myself +Held aloof from their crimes, by no means wrought shame 470 +To mine own spirit. To them earnestly often +On account of their wrong I made opposition, +When the learned-in-lore counsel were taking, +Were seeking in soul how the Son of their Maker, +Men's Helm,[1] they might hang, the Lord of all, 475 +Both angels and men, noblest of children. +They might not so foolish death fasten on him, +Miserable men, as they ere weened, +Afflict with pains, though he for a time +Upon the cross his spirit gave up, 480 +Victor-child of God. Then afterwards was +Raised from the rood the Ruler of heavens, +Glory of all glories, three nights after +Within the tomb was he abiding +Under the darkness, and then on third day, 485 +Light of all light, he living arose, +Prince of angels, and he to his thanes, +True Lord of victories, himself revealed, +Bright in his fame. Then did thy brother +In time receive the bath of baptism, 490 +Enlightening belief. For love of the Lord +Was Stephen then with stones assailed, +Nor ill gave for ill, but for foes of old +Patient implored, prayed King of glory +That he the woe-deed would not lay to their charge, 495 +In that through hate the innocent One, +Guiltless of sins, by the teachings of Saul +They robbed of life, as he through enmity +To misery many of the folk of Christ +Condemned, to death. Yet later the Lord 500 +Mercy him showed, that to many became he +Of people for comfort, when the God of creation, +Saviour of men, had changed his name, +And afterwards he the holy Paul +Was called by name, and no one than he 505 +Of teachers of faith, [no] other, was better +'Neath roof of heaven afterwards ever +Of those man or woman brought into the world, +Although he Stephen with stones them bade +Slay on the mountain, thine own brother. 510 +Now may'st thou hear, mine own dear son, +How gracious is the Ruler of all, +Though we transgression 'gainst him oft commit, +The wound of sins, if we soon after +For those misdeeds repentance work 515 +And from unrighteousness afterwards cease. +Therefore I truly, and my dear father, +After believed [in the Giver of life, Gn.], +That he had suffered, God of all glories, +Leader of life, painful penalty 520 +For mighty need of the race of men. +Therefore I teach thee through secret of song, +My dearest child, that scornful words, +Hatred or blasphemy, never thou work, +Fierce contradiction 'gainst the Son of God. 525 +Then wilt thou merit that thee life eternal, +Best of rewards, shall be given in heaven.' +Thus mine own father in days of old +Me unwaxen with words did teach, +Instruct with true speech (his name was Simon), 530 +Man wise in words. Now well do ye know +What of that in your thought may seem to you best +Plainly to tell, if us this queen +Shall ask of that tree, now mine own mind +And thought of heart ye [well] do know." 535 +Him then in reply the cleverest of all +In the crowd of men with words addressed: +"Ne'er did we hear any of men +Among this folk save thee just now, +Another thane, declare in this manner 540 +Of so secret event. Do as [best] seems thee, +Thou wise in old lore, if thou be questioned +'Mong the host of men. Of wisdom has need, +Of wary words and sage's cunning, +Who shall to the noble one answer return 545 +Before such a host among the assembly." + + [1] i.e., 'defence, protector.' + + +VII. + +Words waxed in speech; men counsel took +On every side; some hither, some thither, +Considered and thought. Then came many thanes +To the people's assembly. The heralds called, 550 +The Caesar's criers: "This queen you invites, +Men, to the hall, that the council-decisions +Ye rightly may tell. Of rede have ye need +In the place of assembly, of wisdom of mind." +Ready they were, the sad-in-mind 555 +People's protectors, when they were summoned +Through stern command; to court they went +Craft's might to tell. Then gan the queen +The Hebrew men in words address, +Ask the life-weary of writings of old, 560 +How ere in the world the prophets sang, +Men holy in spirit, of the Son of God, +Where the Prince [of the people] his sufferings bore, +True son of Creator, for love of souls. +Stubborn they were, harder than stone, 565 +Would not that secret rightly make known +Nor answer to her any would tell, +Anger-provokers, of what she sought, +But they of each word made a denial, +Firm in their minds, of what she gan ask, 570 +Said that in life they any such thing +Nor ere nor since ever had heard of. +Helena spake and angrily said: +"I [now] in truth to you will say,-- +And of this in your life there shall be no deception,-- 575 +If ye in this falseness longer continue +With treacherous lying, who stand here before me, +That you on the mountain bale-fire shall take, +Hottest of war-waves, and your corpses consume, +The lambent flame, so for you shall that lie 580 +To leaving of life [surely] be turned. +Ye may not prove that word, which ye just now in wrong +Concealed 'neath heaps[1] of sins. Nor may ye hide that fate, +Obscure its deepest might." In thought of death they were +Of pyre and life's end, and delivered then one 585 +Well-skilled in songs (to him the name Judas +Was given 'fore kinsmen);--him they gave to the queen, +Said of him very wise: "He may truth to thee tell, +Fate's secrets reveal, as thou askest in words, +The law from beginning forth to the end. 590 +He is before earth of noble race, +Wise in word-craft and son of a prophet, +Bold in council. To him 'tis inborn +That he the answers clever may have, +Knowledge in heart. He to thee shall declare 595 +'Fore the crowd of men the gift of wisdom +Through mickle might, as thy mind desires." +In peace she permitted each one to seek +His own [dear] home, and him alone took, +Judas, as hostage, and earnestly prayed 600 +That he of the rood would rightly teach, +Which of old in its bed was long concealed, +And she himself apart to her called. +Helena spake to him alone, +Glory-rich queen: "For thee two are ready, 605 +Or life or death, as liefer shall be, +To thee to choose. Now quickly declare +To which of the two thou wilt agree." +Judas to her spake again (he might not the sorrow avoid, +Avert the ire of the empress.[2] In the power of the queen was he): 610 +"How may him befall who out on the waste, +Tired and foodless, treads the moorland, +Oppressed with hunger, and bread and stone +Both in his sight together[3] shall be, +The hard and the soft, that he take the stone 615 +For hunger's defence, care not for the bread, +Return to want and reject the food, +Renounce the better, if both he enjoys?" + + [1] Lit., 'under the lap (or bosom) of sins.' + + [2] MS. _rex_ (Latin?), Z.; 'oppression of care' (_cearces_), + Gn.; 'of hunger' (_ceaces_), Gm.; 'of smoke' (_reces_), + Schubert; _rex_ = _cyninges_, Sievers and W. + + [3] Z. + + +VIII. + +To him then the blessed answer returned, +Helena 'fore earls without concealment: 620 +"If thou in heaven willest to have +Dwelling with angels and life on earth, +Reward in the skies, tell me quickly +Where rests the rood of the King of heaven +Holy 'neath earth, which ye now long 625 +Through sin of murder from men have concealed." +Judas replied (his mind was sad, +Heat in his heart and woe for both, +Whether hope of heaven with [all] his soul +He should renounce, along with his present 630 +Kingdom 'neath skies, or show the rood): +"How may I that find that long ago happened +In course of winters? Now many are gone, +Two hundred or more, reckoned by number; +I may not recount, now the number I know not. 635 +Now many have since departed this life, +Of wise and good who were before us, +Of clever men. In youth was I +In later days afterwards born, +A child in years. I cannot what I know not 640 +Find in my heart that so long ago happened." +Helena spake to him in answer: +"How has it happened among this people, +That ye so much in mind retain, +Each one of all signs, just as the Trojans 645 +In fight effected? 'Twas greater terror,[1] +Well-known old war, than this noble event, +In course of years. Ye that can well +Quickly recount, how many there were +In number of men in that murderous fight 650 +Of throwers-with-darts fallen in death +Under the shield-hedge. Ye have the graves +Under the stone-slopes, and likewise the places +And the number of winters in writings set down." +Judas replied (great sorrow he bore): 655 +"That work of war, we, lady mine, +Through direful need remember well, +And that tumult of war in writing set down, +The bearing of nations, but this one never +By any man's mouth have we heard 660 +Made known to men except here now." +The noble queen gave answer to him: +"Thou resistest too much both truth and right +Of the tree of life, and now little before +Thou truly said'st of that victor-tree 665 +To thine own people, and now turn'st to a lie." +To her Judas said that he spake that in sorrow +And doubt extreme, worse evil expected. +Him quickly answered the Caesar's mother: +"Lo! that have we heard through holy books 670 +Made known to men that there was hanged +On Calvary the King's free child, +God's Spirit-son. Thou fully shalt +Wisdom reveal, as writings tell, +About the plain, where the place may be, 675 +That Calvary, ere misery take thee, +Death for thy sins, that I afterwards may +Purify it at the will of Christ, +For help to men, that holy God, +Almighty Lord, the thought of my heart 680 +My wish may fulfil, men's Giver of glory, +Helper of souls." Her Judas answered, +Stubborn in mind: "I know not the place +Nor aught of the plain, nor the thing do I know." +Helena spake with angry mind: 685 +"This do I swear through the Son of the Maker +The hanged God, that with hunger thou shalt +Before thy kinsmen be put to death, +Unless thou forsake these lying tales +And plainly to me the truth make known." 690 +Then bade she with band him lead alive, +The guilty one cast (the servants delayed not) +Into a dry pit, where robbed of joy, +He lingered in sorrows seven nights' time +Within the prison oppressed with hunger, 695 +Fastened with fetters, and then gan he call, +Weakened by pains, on the seventh day, +Tired and foodless (his strength was exhausted): +"I you beseech through heaven's God, +That me from these sufferings ye may release, 700 +Humbled by hunger. Of that holy tree +Shall I willingly tell, now longer I may not +For hunger conceal it. This bond is too strong, +Distress too severe, and this misery too hard +In number of days. I may not endure it, 705 +Nor longer conceal of the tree of life, +Though with folly before I was thoroughly filled, +And the truth too late I myself have perceived." + + [1] Or, 'war,' Gn.; 'further oft,' Gm. + + +IX. + +When she that heard, who men there ordered, +The man's behavior, she quickly commanded 710 +That him from confinement and out of his dungeon, +From the narrow abode, they should release. +They hastily that did soon perform +And him with honor then led they up +From out of the prison as them the queen bade. 715 +Stepped they then to the place, the firm-in-mind, +Upon the hill on which the Lord +Before was hanged, heaven-kingdom's Ward, +God's child, on the cross, and yet knew he not well, +Weakened by hunger, where the holy rood 720 +Through cunning of foe[1] enclosed in earth, 721-2 +Long firm in its bed concealed from men, +Remained in its grave. Now raised he his voice, +Unmindful[2] of might, and in Hebrew he spake: 725 +"Saviour Lord, thou hast power of rule, +And thou didst create through the might of thy glory +Heaven and earth and the boisterous sea, +The ocean's wide bosom, all creatures alike, +And thou didst measure with thine own hands 730 +All the globe of the earth and the heaven above, +And thou thyself sittest, Wielder of victories, +Above the noblest order of angels, +That fly through the air encircled with light, +Great might of glory. There mankind may not 735 +From the paths of earth ascend on high +In bodily form with that bright host, +Heralds of glory. These wroughtest thou, +And for thine own service them didst thou set, +Holy and heavenly. Of these in the choir 740 +In joy eternal six are named, +Who are surrounded with six wings apiece, +[With them are] adorned, [and] fair they shine. +Of these are four who ever in flight +The service of glory attend upon 745 +Before the face of the Judge eternal, +Continually sing in glory the praise, +With clearest voices, of the King of heaven, +Most beauteous of songs, and say these words +With voices pure (their name Cherubim): 750 +'Holy is the holy God of archangels, +Ruler of hosts. Full of his glory +Are heaven and earth and all the high powers +With glory distinguished,' There are two among these, +Victor-race in heaven, who Seraphim 755 +By name are called. They shall Paradise +And the tree of life with flaming sword +Holy maintain. The hard-edged trembles, +The etched brand wavers, and changes its form, +Firm in their grips. That,[3] O Lord God, 760 +Ever thou wieldest, and thou the sinful, +Guilt-working foes out of the heavens, +The foolish, didst cast. The accursed host then +Under dwellings of darkness was forced to fall +To perdition of hell. There now in the welling 765 +Endure they death-pain in the dragon's embrace, +Enclosed in darkness. [Thee] he resisted, +Thy princely rule; therefore in misery, +Full[4] of all foulness, he guilty shall suffer, +Slavery endure. There may he not 770 +Thy word reject: he is fast in torments, +The author of sin, in misery bound. +If thy will it be, Ruler of angels, +That he may reign who was on the rood, +And who through Mary upon the mid-earth 775 +Incarnate became in form of a child, +Prince of the angels (if he had not been +Thy Son free from sin, never so many +True wonders in world would he have wrought +In number of days. Thou wouldst not from death 780 +So gloriously him, Ruler of nations, +Have awaked 'fore the hosts, if he in glory +Through the bright [maid] were not thy Son),-- +Now, Father of angels, send forth thy sign. +As thou didst hear the holy man, 785 +Moses, in prayer, when thou, God of might, +Didst show to the earl at the noble time +Under the hill-slope the bones of Joseph, +So, Ruler of hosts, if it be thy will, +Through that bright form I'll pray to thee 790 +That to me the gold-hoard, Maker of spirits, +Thou wilt reveal, that has been from men +[So] long concealed. Let, Author of life, +Now from this plain a winsome smoke +'Neath heaven's expanse mount up on high 795 +Playing in the air. I'll the better believe, +And I'll the more firmly stablish my mind, +Undoubting trust, upon the hanged Christ, +That he be in truth the Saviour of souls, +Eternal, Almighty, Israel's King, 800 +Forever may have glory in heaven, +Rule without end the dwellings eternal." + + [1] No _lacuna_ in MS. Gn.^1 inserted one line, but Gn.^2 one + word (_feonda_), which W. prefers. Text as Z. (_feondes_), + which Sievers approves. + + [2] 'Mindful,' Gm. and Gn.; 'suffering,' Z. [?]. + + [3] Referring to the sword. + + [4] Gn., or 'foul,' Z. + + +X. + +Then out of that place a vapor arose +Like smoke 'neath the heavens. There was rejoiced +The mind of the man. With both his hands, 805 +Happy and law-clever, upward he clapped. +Judas exclaimed, clever in thought: +"Now I in truth myself have known +In my hardened heart that thou art the Saviour +Of [this] mid-earth. To thee, God of might, 810 +Sitting in glory, be thanks without end, +That to me so sad and so full of sin +Thou revealed'st in glory the secrets of fate. +Now, Son of God, to thee will I pray, +Will-giver of peoples, now I know that thou art 815 +Declared and born of all kings the Glory, +That thou no longer be of my sins, +Those which I committed by no means seldom, +O Maker, mindful. Let me, God of might, +Amid the number of thine own kingdom 820 +With the army of saints my dwelling have +In that bright city, where is my brother +Honored in glory, for that faith with thee +He, Stephen, kept, though with handfuls of stones +He was pelted to death. War's meed he has, 825 +Fame without end. There are in books +The wonders he wrought, in writings, made known." +Then gan he glad for the tree of glory, +Constant in zeal, delve in the earth +Beneath the turf, so that at twenty 830 +Feet by measure he found far concealed, +Down in the depths hidden in the earth +'Neath cover of darkness,--there found he three +Of roods together within the sad house +Buried in sand, as in days of old 835 +The host of the wicked covered with earth, +The folk of the Jews. 'Gainst the child of God +Hatred they raised, although they should not, +If the lore they'd not heard of the father of lies. +Then was his mind greatly rejoiced, 840 +His heart was strengthened by that holy tree, +His spirit inspired, when the beacon he saw +Holy 'neath earth. With his hands he clasped +The cross[1] of glory, and it raised 'mid the crowd +From its grave in the earth. The guests on foot, 845 +The aethelings, went on into the city. +They set there in sight three victor-trees +The firm-minded earls 'fore Helena's feet,[2] +Courageous in heart. The queen rejoiced +In the depth of her soul, and then gan ask 850 +On which of those trees the Son of the Ruler, +Joy-giver of heroes, hanged had been. +"Lo! that we have heard through holy books +By tokens declared, that two with-him +[Also] suffered, and himself was the third 855 +On the tree of the rood. All heaven was dark +On that terrible day. Say, if thou canst, +On which of these three the Prince of the angels +Suffered [his doom], the Shepherd of glory." +Her Judas might not (he knew not full well) 860 +Plainly inform of the victor-wood, +On which one the Saviour uplifted had been, +Victor-son of God, ere he bade them set +Within the middle of that great city +The trees with clamor, and there await 865 +Till to him declared the Almighty King +The wonder 'fore the folk of that tree of glory. +The victor-famed sat, their song they raised, +The wise in rede, 'round the three roods +Until the ninth hour; new joy they had 870 +With wonder found. Then came there a crowd, +No little folk, and a man deceased +They brought on a bier with heap of men +In neighborhood [nigh] (ninth hour it was), +A lifeless youth. Then Judas was there 875 +In thought of his heart greatly rejoiced. +He bade then set the soul-less [youth], +Deprived of life the corpse on the earth, +The lifeless one, and up he raised, +Declarer of truth, two of the crosses, 880 +The wise, in his arms o'er that fated house, +Plunged deep in thought. It was dead as before, +Corpse fast on its bier: the limbs were cold, +Clad in distress. Then was the third +Holy upraised. The body awaited 885 +Until over it the AEtheling's [cross], +His rood, was upraised, Heaven-king's tree, +True token of victory. Soon he arose +Ready in spirit, both together +Body and soul. There praise was uplifted 890 +Fair 'mid the folk. The Father they honored, +And also the true Son of the Ruler +They praised in words. Be glory and thanks +To Him without end from all His creatures. + + [1] Lit., 'joy-wood.' + + [2] Lit., 'knee.' + + +XI. + +Then was to the people in the depth of their souls 895 +Impressed on their minds, as ever shall be, +The wonder that wrought the Lord of hosts +For saving of souls of the race of men, +The Teacher of life. There the sinner-through-lies +Then stied in the air, the flying fiend. 900 +Gan then exclaim the devil of hell, +The terrible monster, mindful of evils: +"Lo! what man is this, who now again +With ancient strife my service will ruin, +Increase the old hate, [and] plunder my goods? 905 +This contest's increasing. The souls cannot, +Workers of sin, longer within +My power remain, now a stranger is come, +Whom I ere reckoned fast in his sins, +Me has he robbed of every right, 910 +Of precious possessions. That's not a fair course. +To me many harms the Saviour has done, +Contests oppressive, he who in Nazareth +Was reared as a child. As soon as he grew +From childhood's years, he to him ever turned 915 +Mine own possessions. I may not now +In any right thrive. His kingdom is broad +Over the mid-earth. My might is lessened +Under the heavens. The rood I need not +Joyfully praise. Lo! me the Saviour 920 +In that narrow home again has confined +Sadly for sorrow. Through Judas before +Joyful I was, and now am I humbled, +Deprived of goods, through Judas again, +Despised and friendless. Still can I find 925 +Through evil deeds return hereafter[1] +From the homes of the damned. 'Gainst thee will I rouse +Another king[2] who will persecute thee, +And he will reject thine own instruction, +And sinful manners of mine will he follow, 930 +And thee will he send then into the blackest +And into the worst terrors of torments, +That with sorrow beset thou'lt firmly renounce +The hanged King whom ere thou obeyed'st." +To him then the cunning Judas replied, 935 +The battle-brave man (in him Holy Spirit +Was firmly implanted, fire-hot his love, +His wit was welling with warrior's craft), +And this word he spake with wisdom filled: +"Thou need not so strongly, mindful of sins, 940 +Sorrow renew, and strife uprear, +Sin-maker of murder, for thee mighty King +In the depths beneath will thrust thee down, +Worker of sin, to miseries' bottom +Deprived of glory, who many of the dead 945 +With his word awaked. Know thou the readier, +That thou with folly didst once renounce +Brightest of lights and love of the Lord, +The fairest joy, and in bath of fire, +Surrounded with torments, didst afterwards dwell, 950 +Consumed with flame, and there ever shalt, +Hostile in mind, punishment suffer, +Misery endless." Helena heard +How the fiend and the friend contests aroused, +The blest and the base, on both their sides, 955 +The sinner and the saint. Her mind was the gladder +For that she heard the hellish foe +[The fiend] overcome, the worker of sins, +And then she wondered at the wit of the man, +How he so truthful in so little time 960 +And so untaught ever became +With wisdom inspired. [Then] thanked she God, +The King of glory, that her wish was fulfilled +Through the Son of God of each of the two, +Both for the sight of the victor-tree, 965 +And of the faith that[3] so bright she perceived, +The glorious gift in the breast of the man. + + [1] So Z.; 'rebellion for this,' W. See W.'s note. + + [2] Julian the Apostate, suggests Gn. + + [3] 'That,' relative, though it may be taken as conjunction, + as Z. + + +XII. + +Then was made known among that folk, +Throughout that nation widely proclaimed, +The great morning-news for a grievance to many 970 +Of those who God's law wished to conceal, +Announced in the towns far as waters embrace, +In each of the cities, that the rood of Christ +Once buried in earth had been discovered, +Brightest of beacons, which since or before 975 +Holy 'neath heavens had been upheaved; +And it was to the Jews the greatest of sorrows, +Unhappy men, most hateful of fates, +That they 'fore the world were unable to change it, +The joy of the Christians. Then bade the queen 980 +'Mong the host of earls heralds to hasten, +Quickly to journey; they should of the Romans +O'er the high sea the lord seek out, +And to that warrior the best of tidings +Say, to himself, that the victor-sign 985 +Through Creator's favor had been recovered, +Found in the earth, which ages before +Had been concealed for sorrow to saints, +To Christian folk. Then was to the king +Through the glorious words his spirit gladdened, 990 +His heart rejoicing. Then was of inquirers +'Neath golden garments no lack in the cities +Come from afar. To him greatest of comforts +It became in the world at the wished-for tidings,-- +His heart delighted,--which army-leaders 995 +Over the east-ways, messengers, brought him, +How happy a journey over the swan-road +The men with the queen successfully made +To the land of the Greeks. The Caesar bade them +With greatest haste again prepare 1000 +Themselves for the way. The men delayed not +As soon as they had the answer heard, +The words of the aetheling. Bade he Helena hail, +The war-famed greet, if they the sea-voyage +And happy journey were able to make, 1005 +Brave-minded men, to the holy city. +Bade also to her the messengers say +Constantinus, that she a church +On the mountain-slope for gain of both +Should there erect, a temple of God, 1010 +On Calvary, for joy to Christ, +For help to men, where the holy rood +Had been discovered, greatest of trees, +Of those that earth-dwellers ever heard named +Upon the earth. So she effected, 1015 +After dear kinsmen brought from the west +Over the ocean many loved tidings. +Then bade the queen those skilled in crafts +To seek out apart, the best of all, +Those who most cunningly knew how to work 1020 +In joinings of stones, on the open plain +God's temple to build. As the Warden of spirits +Her counselled from heaven, she bade the rood +With gold adorn and gems of all kinds, +With the most splendid of precious stones 1025 +To set with skill, and in silver chest +To enclose with locks. There that tree of life, +Best of victor-trees, has since remained +In nature eternal.[1] There 'twill be ever ready +A help to the sick 'gainst every ill, 1030 +Distress and sorrow. There soon will they +Through that holy creation assistance obtain, +A gift divine. Also Judas received +After fixed time the bath of baptism, +And cleansed became, trustful in Christ, 1035 +Dear to the Life-warden. His faith became +Firm in his heart, when the Spirit of comfort +Made his abode in the breast of the man, +To repentance him urged. The better he chose, +The joy of glory, and the worse he refused, 1040 +The service of idols, and error rejected, +Unlawful belief. To him King[2] eternal, +The Creator, was mild, God, Ruler of might. + + [1] So Z.; 'The noble wood,' Gm. and Gn. + + [2] Latin, _rex_. + + +XIII. + +Then he was baptized who often before +The ready light [had long rejected, Gn.], 1045 +Inspired was his soul for that better life, +To glory turned. Fate surely ordained +That so full of faith and so dear to God +In realm of the world he should become, +[So] pleasing to Christ. That known became, 1050 +After that Helena bade them Eusebius, +Bishop of Rome, into council with her +To bring for help, the very wise [man] +By means of men,[1] to the holy city, +That he might ordain to the sacred office 1055 +Judas for the folk in Jerusalem, +To be their bishop within the city, +Through gift of the Spirit for the temple of God +Chosen with wisdom, and him Cyriacus +Through counsel of wit she afterwards named 1060 +A second time. The name was changed +Of the man in the city henceforth for the better, +For the law of the Saviour. Then still Helena's +Mind was disturbed at the wondrous fate, +Very much for the nails, those which the Saviour's 1065 +Feet had pierced through and likewise his hands, +With which on the rood the Ruler of Heaven, +Lord mighty, was fastened. Of these gan ask +The Christians' queen, Cyriacus prayed +That still for her, by the might of his spirit, 1070 +For the wondrous fate the will he'ld fulfil, +Reveal by his gifts, and she addressed +This word to the bishop, boldly she spake: +"Thou, earls' defence, the noble tree +Of heavens' King me rightly didst show, 1075 +On which was hanged by heathen hands +The Helper of spirits, own Son of God, +Saviour of men. Still of the nails +In thought of my mind curiosity troubles me. +I would thou should'st find those which yet in the earth 1080 +Deeply buried remain concealed, +Hidden in darkness. My heart ever sorrows, +Sad it complains and never will rest, +Ere for me He fulfil, Almighty Father, +Ruler of hosts, mine own desire, 1085 +Saviour of men, by sight[2] of the nails, +The Holy from height. Now quickly do thou +With all humility, most excellent man, +Direct thy prayer to the heavens bright, +To the Ruler of glory, pray Strength of warriors, 1090 +That to thee may reveal the Almighty King +The hord 'neath the earth, that hidden still, +Concealed from men, in secret abides." +Then gan the holy one strengthen his heart, +Inspired in his breast the bishop of the folk, 1095 +Glad-minded, went with a crowd of men +Those praising God, and earnestly then +Cyriacus on Calvary +Inclined his face, his secret concealed not, +With might of his spirit called upon God 1100 +With all humility, prayed Warden of angels +To open to him the unknown fate +In his new distress, where he the nails +Upon the plain Best need expect. +Then caused he the token, where they were looking, 1105 +The Father, hope's Spirit, in form of fire +Upwards to rise, where they most noble +By means of men[3] had once been hidden +With secret cunning, the nails in the earth. +Then suddenly came brighter than sun 1110 +The playing flame. The people saw +To the giver of their will[4] the wonder made known, +When there out of darkness, like stars of heaven +Or gems of gold, upon the bottom +The nails from the narrow bed shining beneath 1115 +Brilliantly glittered. The people rejoiced, +The glad-minded host, spake glory to God +With one accord all, though ere they were +By the devil's deceit long in error, +Estranged from Christ. Thus did they speak: 1120 +"Ourselves now we see the token of victory, +True wonder of God, that before we opposed +With lying words. Now is come into light, +Is revealed, fate's course. May glory for this +Have in the highest heaven-kingdom's God!" 1125 +Then he was rejoiced who turned to repentance +Through the Son of God, the people's bishop, +A second time. He took the nails, +Disturbed with fear, and to the venerable +Queen did he bring them. Cyriacus had 1130 +It all fulfilled as the noble one bade him, +The woman's will. There was sound of weeping, +Hot head-welling was poured o'er her cheeks, +By no means for sorrow. The tears were falling +O'er the plaiting of wires.[5] With glory fulfilled 1135 +Was the wish of the queen. She knelt on her knees +With bright belief; she honored the gift, +Rejoicing with joy, which was to her brought +For help in her sorrows. Then thanked she God, +The Lord of victories, that the truth she had learnt 1140 +At that present time, that oft was announced +So long before from creation of the world +For comfort to the people. She was inspired +With the gift of wisdom, and his dwelling held +Holy Spirit of heaven, guarded her breast, 1145 +Her noble heart. So her the Almighty +Victor-son of God after protected. + + [1] So Z.; 'With pomp of array,' Gn. + + [2] Lit., 'coming.' + + [3] Same expression as in 1054. + + [4] Lit., 'will-giver,' i.e., the queen. + + [5] i.e., her ornaments of gold. + + +XIV. + +Then eagerly gan she with secrets of soul +Seek in her spirit by soothfastness +The way to glory. Now God of hosts 1150 +His help bestowed, the Father in heaven, +Almighty King, that the queen obtained +Her will in the world. The prophecy was +By sages of old sung long before +All from beginning, as it afterwards happened 1155 +In respect to each thing. The folk-queen began +Through gift of the Spirit gladly to seek +With greatest care how best the nails, +And in manner most worthy, she might apply +For joy to the folk, what was will of the Lord. 1160 +Bade she then fetch a very wise man +Quickly to counsel, him who wisdom +Through clever might thoroughly knew, +Wise in his heart, and gan him ask +What in his soul seemed to him best 1165 +To do about that, and his teachings she chose +In respect to her conduct. Her boldly[1] he answered: +"That is becoming that word of the Lord +Thou hold in heart, holy counsel, +Most excellent queen, and the King's command 1170 +Gladly fulfil, now God has thee given +Success of soul and craft of wit, +The Saviour of men. Bid thou these nails +For that most excellent of earthly kings, +Of owners of cities, put on his bridle 1175 +For bit to his horse. To many that shall, +Throughout the mid-earth, become renowned, +When with that in contest he may overcome +Each one of his foes, when the brave-in-war +On either side the battle seek, 1180 +Sword-contenders, where they strive for victory, +Foe against foe. War-speed shall he have, +Victory in fight and everywhere peace, +In battle success, who carries in front +The bridle on horse, when the famed-in-fight 1185 +At clashing of spears, the choicest of men, +Bear shield and lance. To each one of men +Against war-terror shall be invincible +This weapon in war. The seer of it sang, +Cunning in thought. Deep moved his mind, 1190 +His wit of wisdom. This word he spake: +'That shall be known that the horse of the king +Shall 'neath the proud with bit be adorned, +With bridle-rings. That beacon to God +Shall holy be called, and that one valor-blessed, 1195 +Honored in war, who rides on that horse.'" +With haste then that did all perform +Helena 'fore earls, bade the aetheling's, +Heroes' ring-giver's, bridle adorn, +To her own son sent as a present 1200 +O'er ocean's stream the blameless gift. +She bade then together those whom as best +Of men she knew among the Jews, +Of the race of heroes, to the holy city, +To the town to come. Then gan the queen 1205 +The dear ones teach that love of the Lord +And peace likewise among themselves, +The bond of friendship, they fast should hold +Without reproach in time of their life, +And they to the teacher's lore should hearken, 1210 +The Christian virtues that Cyriacus taught them, +Clever in books. The office of bishop +Was fairly made fast. From afar oft to him +The lame, the sick, the crippled came, +The halt, the wounded, the leprous and blind, 1215 +The lowly, the sad; always there health +At the hands of the bishop, healing, they found +Ever for ever. Yet Helena gave him +Treasures as presents, when ready she was +For the journey home, and bade she then all 1220 +In that kingdom of men who worshipped God, +Men and women, that they should honor +With mind and might that famous day, +With thoughts of the heart, whereon holy rood +Had been discovered, greatest of trees, 1225 +Of those which from earth ever sprang up +Grown under leaves. Then spring was gone +Except six nights ere coming of summer +On the kalends of May. To each of those men +Be hell's door shut, heaven's unclosed, 1230 +Eternally opened the kingdom of angels, +Joy without end, and their portion appointed +Along with. Mary, who takes into mind +That one most dear of festal days +Of that rood under heaven, that which the mightiest 1235 +Ruler of all with arm protected. _Finit_.[2] + + [1] Gn.'s emendation. + + [2] Here properly ends the legend of the Finding of the Cross. + The last canto contains reflections of the poet. + + +XV. + +Thus old and death-ready in this frail house +Word-craft I wove and wondrously framed it, +Reflected at times and sifted my thought +Closely at night. I knew not well 1240 +The truth of the rood,[1] ere wider knowledge +Through glorious might into thought of my mind +Wisdom revealed to me. I was stained with crimes, +Fettered with sins, pained with sorrows, +Bitterly bound, banefully vexed, 1245 +Ere lore to me lent through light-bringing office +For help to the aged, his blameless gift +The mighty King meted, and poured in my mind, +Brightness disclosed, widened with time, +Bone-house unbound, breast-lock unwound, 1250 +Song-craft unlocked, which I joyfully used, +With will, in the world. Of that tree of glory +Often not once meditation I had, +Ere that wonder I had revealed +About that bright tree, as in books I found 1255 +In course of events, in writings declared +Of that beacon of victory. Ay till then was the man +With care-waves oppressed, a nickering _pine-torch_[C], +Though he in the mead-hall treasures received, +Apples of gold.[2] Mourned for his _bow_[Y] 1260 +The comrade of _sorrow_[N], suffered distress, +His secret constrained, where before him the _horse_[E] +Measured the mile-paths, with spirit ran +Proud of his ornaments. _Hope_[W] is decreased, +Joy, after years, youth is departed, 1265 +The ancient pride. The _bison_[U] was once +The gladness of youth. Now are the old days +In course of time gone forever, +Life-joy departed, as _ocean_[L] flows by, +Waves hurried along. To each one is _wealth_[3][F] 1270 +Fleeting 'neath heaven, treasures of earth +Pass 'neath the clouds likest to wind, +When before men it mounts up aloud, +Roams 'round the clouds, raging rushes, +And then all at once silent becomes, 1275 +In narrow prison closely confined, +Strongly repressed. So passes this world, +And likewise besides what things[4] have been +In it produced flame will consume, +When the Lord himself judgment will seek 1280 +With host of angels. Every one there +Of speech-bearing men the truth shall hear +Of every deed through mouth of the Judge, +And likewise of words the penalty pay +Of all that with folly were spoken before, 1285 +Of daring thoughts. Then parts into three +Into clutch of fire each one of folk, +Of those that have dwelt in course of time +Upon the broad earth. The righteous shall be +Upmost-in flame, host of the blessed, 1290 +Crowd eager for glory, as they may bear it, +And without torment easily suffer, +Band of the brave. For them shall be moderate +The brightness of flame,[5] as it shall be easiest, +Softest for them. The sinful shall be, 1295 +Those spotted with evil, compressed in the middle, +Men sad-in-mind, within the hot waves +Smothered with smoke. The third part shall be, +Accursed sinners, in the flood's abyss, +False folk-haters, fastened in flame 1300 +For deeds of old, gang of the godless +In grip of the gledes. To God never more +From that place of torment come they in mind, +To the King of glory, but they shall be cast +From that terrible fire to the bottom of hell, 1305 +The workers of woe. To the [other] two parts +It will be unlike. They may angels' Lord, +Victories' God, see. They shall be cleansed, +Sundered from sins, as smelted gold, +That is in the flame from every spot 1310 +Through fire of the oven thoroughly cleansed, +Freed and refined. So shall each of those men +Be freed and made pure from every sin, +From heavy crimes through fire of that doom. +Then afterwards they may peace enjoy, 1315 +Eternal bliss. To them angels' Warden +Shall be mild and gentle, for that they every evil +Despised, sins' work, and to Son of their Maker +They called with words. Hence in beauty they shine now +Like to the angels, the heritage have 1320 +Of the King of glory for ever and ever. Amen. + + [1] Gn.'s emendation. + + [2] Lit.,'appled gold.' + + [3] The words in italics are the names of the runes that make + up the name CYNEWULF. This artificial use of words makes + the interpretation obscure, and scholars differ about it. + + [4] Or, 'those who.' + + [5] Gn., Z. + + + + +JUDITH. + + +IX. + +* * * * * * * * +[The glorious Creator's][1] gifts doubted she [not] +Upon this wide earth; then found she there ready +Help from the mighty Prince, when she most need did have +Of grace from the highest Judge, that her 'gainst the greatest terror +The Lord of Creation should shield. That Father in heaven to her +The Glorious-in-mind did grant, for that firm faith she had +In the Almighty ever. Then heard I that Holofernes +Wine-summons eagerly wrought, and with all wonders a glorious +Banquet had he prepared; to that bade the prince of men +All his noblest thanes. That with mickle haste 10 +Did the warriors-with-shields perform; came to the mighty chief +The people's leaders going. On the fourth day was that +After that Judith, cunning in mind, +The elf-sheen virgin, him first had sought. + + [1] Gn.'s emendation to fill _lacuna_ of MS. + + +X. + +They then at the feast proceeded to sit, 15 +The proud to the wine-drinking, all his comrades-in-ill, +Bold mailed-warriors. There were lofty beakers +Oft borne along the benches, also were cups and flagons +Full to the hall-sitters borne. The fated partook of them, +Brave warriors-with-shields, though the mighty weened not of it, 20 +Awful lord of earls. Then was Holofernes, +Gold-friend of men, full of wine-joy: +He laughed and clamored, shouted and dinned, +That children of men from afar might hear +How the strong-minded both stormed and yelled, 25 +Moody and mead-drunken, often admonished +The sitters-on-benches to bear themselves[1] well. +Thus did the hateful one during all day +His liege-men [loyal] keep plying with wine, +Stout-hearted giver of treasure, until they lay in a swoon, 30 +He drenched all his nobles [with drink], as if they were slain in death, +Deprived[2] of each one of goods. Thus bade the prince of men +The sitters-in-hall to serve, until to children of men +The darkening night drew nigh. He bade then, filled with hate, +The blessed maiden with haste to fetch 35 +To his bed of rest, laden with jewels, +Adorned with rings. They quickly performed, +The attendant thanes, what their lord them bade, +Mailed-warriors' prince; like a flash they stepped +Into the guest-room, where they Judith 40 +Wise-minded found, and quickly then +The warriors-with-shields began to lead +The glorious maid to the lofty tent +Where the mighty himself always[3] rested +By night within, to the Saviour hateful, 45 +Holofernes. There was an all-golden +Beautiful fly-net around the folk-warrior's +Bed suspended, so that the hateful +Was able to look through, the chief of warriors, +Upon each one that therein came 50 +Of the sons of heroes, and on him no one +Of the race of men, unless the proud some one +Of the strong-in-war bade to him nearer +Of warriors for counsel to come. They then to him at rest brought +Quickly the cunning woman; went then the stout-in-heart 55 +The men their lord to tell that the holy woman was +Brought to his chamber-tent. The famous then in mind +Was glad, the ruler of cities; he thought the beautiful maiden +With spot and stain to defile: that Judge of glory would not +Allow, the Keeper of honor, but him from that deed restrained 60 +The Lord, the Ruler of hosts. Went then the devilish one, +The wanton [warrior-prince],[4] with [mickle] band of men, +The baleful his bed to seek, where he his life should lose +Quickly within one night; he had then his end attained[5] +On earth ungentle [end], such as before he wrought for, 65 +The mighty prince of men, while in this world he was, +While he dwelt under roof of the clouds. Then fell so drunk with wine +The mighty [chief] on his bed, as if he knew no rede +Within his place of wit; the warriors stepped +Out from the chamber with mickle haste, 70 +The wine-filled men, who the oath-breaker, +Hateful folk-hater, had led to his bed +For the very last time. Then was the Saviour's +Glorious maiden earnestly mindful +How she the terrible most easily might 75 +Of life deprive before the lustful, +The wanton, awoke. The wreathed-locked took then, +The Creator's handmaid, a sharp-edged sword +Hardened by war-strokes [?],[6] and drew from its sheath +With her right hand; then Keeper of heaven 80 +By name she gan name, Saviour of all +Dwellers-in-th' world, and this word she spake: +"Thee, God of Creation, and Spirit of Comfort, +Son of the Almighty, will I [now] pray +For thine own mercy to me in my need, 85 +Trinity's Glory. To me greatly now then +My heart is inflamed, and my mind is sad, +Sorely with sorrows oppressed; grant, Lord of Heaven, to me +Victory and faith without fear, that I with this sword may be able +To hew down this dealer of murder; grant [too] my safety to me, 90 +Strong-hearted Leader of men; ne'er in this world had I +Of thy mercy more urgent need: avenge now, mighty Lord, +Glorious Giver of honor, that I am so angry in mind, +So heated within my breast." Her then the highest Judge +Quickly with courage inspired, as doth he [ever] each one 95 +Of dwellers here [upon earth], who him for help to them seek +With rede and righteous belief. Then roomy in mind she became, +The holy one's hope was renewed; then took she the heathen man +Fast by his own [long] hair, with hands him towards her she drew +With marks of contempt, and the baleful one 100 +With cunning laid down, the loathsome man, +As she the accursed most easily might +Wield at her will. Struck then the curly-locked +The hostile foe with shining[7] sword, +The hateful-minded, that half-way she cut 105 +The [evil one's] neck, that he lay in a swoon, +Drunken and wounded. Not yet was he dead, +Thoroughly lifeless; struck she then earnestly, +The maiden brave-minded, a second time +The heathen hound, that his head rolled off 110 +Forth on the floor: the foul corpse lay +Lifeless behind, went the spirit elsewhere +Beneath the deep earth, and there was disgraced, +In torment bound ever thereafter, +Surrounded with serpents, with tortures encompassed, 115 +Strongly enchained in the fire of hell +After his death. He need never hope, +Enveloped with darkness, that thence he may go +Out of that worm-hall, but there shall he dwell +Ever for ever without end henceforth 120 +In that dark home, of hope-joys deprived. + + [1] 'Loudly carouse,' Kr. and C. + + [2] 'Gorged with,' Kr. and C. + + [3] Or, 'after feast.' + + [4] 'King,' Gn. and Kr., but _guethfreca_ suits the verse better + than _cyning_, and even that is not metrically sufficient + to fill the _lacuna_. + + [5] Lit., 'awaited.' + + [6] So Gn.? 'Scouring,' Sw.?, Kr.?, C. + + [7] 'Hostile,' Sw.? + + +XI. + +Then had she gained glorious honor, +Judith in war, as God to her granted, +The Ruler of Heaven, who gave to her victory. +The cunning maid then quickly brought 125 +The army-leader's head so bloody +In that [very] vessel in which her attendant, +The fair-faced woman, food for them both, +In virtues renowned, thither had brought, +And it then so gory to her gave in hand, 130 +To the thoughtful-in-mind to bear to their home, +Judith to her maid. Went they forth thence, +The women both in courage bold, +Until they had come, proud in their minds, +The women triumphant, out from the army, 135 +So that they plainly were able to see +Of that beautiful city the walls [fair] shine, +Bethulia. Then jewel-decked they +Upon the foot-path hastened to go, +Until glad-minded they had arrived 140 +At the gate of the wall. The warriors sat, +The watching men were keeping ward +Within that fortress, as before to the folk, +Sad in their minds, Judith had bidden, +The cunning maiden, when she went on her journey, 145 +The stout-hearted woman. Then again was she come, +Dear to her people, and then quickly ordered +The wise-minded woman some one of the men +To come to meet her from out the wide city, +And her in haste to admit within 150 +Through the gate of the wall, and this word she spake +To the victor-folk: "To you can I say +A thought-worthy[1] thing, that no longer ye need +Mourn in your minds: your Creator is kind, +Glory of kings: that is become known 155 +Wide through the world, that to you is success +Glorious at hand, and honor is granted +For [all] those sorrows which long ye suffered." +Glad then were they, the dwellers-in-borough, +After they heard how the holy one spake 160 +O'er the high wall. The host was in joy. +To the fortress-gate the people hastened, +Men, women together, in troops and heaps, +In crowds and throngs, hurried and ran +To meet the Lord's maid by thousands and thousands, 165 +Both old and young: to each one became +Of men in the mead-city his mind rejoiced, +After they knew that Judith was come +Again to her home, and then in haste +With reverence they allowed her to enter. 170 +Then bade the clever, with gold adorned, +Her servant-maid, thoughtful-in-mind, +The army-leader's head to uncover, +And it as a proof bloody to show +To the city-folk how she speeded in war. 175 +Then spake the noble one to all the folk: +"Here ye may clearly, victory-blessed warriors, +Chiefs of the people, upon the most hateful +Heathen hero's head fix your gaze, +On Holofernes deprived of life, 180 +Who chiefest of men wrought murders for us, +Sorest sorrows, and that yet more +Would he increase: but God him granted not +A longer life, that he with woes +Might still afflict us. Of life I deprived him 185 +By help of God. Now I every man +Of these city-dwellers will [earnestly] pray, +Of shield-bearing warriors, that ye yourselves quickly +Hasten to fight; when the God of creation, +The glorious King, shall send from the east 190 +Bright beams of light, bear forth your shields, +Boards before breasts and coats-of-mail, +Bright helmets [too] among the foes, +To fell the folk-leaders with shining swords, +The fated chiefs. Your foes are now 195 +Condemned to death, and ye glory shall gain, +Honor in battle, as to you hath betokened +The mighty Lord through mine own hand." +Then the band of the brave was quickly prepared, +Of the bold for battle; stepped out the valiant 200 +Men and comrades, bore their banners, +Went forth to fight straight on their way +The heroes 'neath helmets from the holy city +At the dawn itself; shields made a din, +Loudly resounded. Thereat laughed the lank 205 +Wolf in the wood, and the raven wan, +Fowl greedy for slaughter: both of them knew +That for them the warriors thought to provide +Their fill on the fated; and flew on their track +The dewy-winged eagle eager for prey, 210 +The dusky-coated sang his war-song, +The crooked-beaked. Stepped forth the warriors, +The heroes for battle with boards protected, +With hollow shields, who awhile before +The foreign-folk's reproach endured, 215 +The heathens' scorn; fiercely was that +At the ash-spear's play to them all repaid, +[All] the Assyrians, after the Hebrews +Under their banners had [boldly] advanced +To the army-camps. They bravely then 220 +Forthright let fly showers of arrows, +Of battle-adders, out from the horn-bows, +Of strongly-made shafts; stormed they aloud, +The cruel warriors, sent forth their spears +Among the brave; the heroes were angry, 225 +The dwellers-in-land, with the loathed race; +The stern-minded stepped, the stout-in-heart, +Rudely awakened their ancient foes +Weary from mead; with hands drew forth +The men from the sheaths the brightly-marked swords 230 +Most choice in their edges, eagerly struck +Of the [host of] Assyrians the battle-warriors, +The hostile-minded; not one they spared +Of the army-folk, nor low nor high +Of living men, whom they might subdue. 235 + + [1] 'Thank-worthy,' Kr. + + +XII. + +Thus then the thanes in the morning-hours +Pressed on the strangers unceasingly, +Until they perceived, those who were hostile, +The army-folk's chiefest leaders, +That upon them sword-strokes mighty bestowed 240 +The Hebrew men. They that in words +To their most noted chiefs of the people +Went to announce, waked helmeted warriors +And to them with fear the dread news told, +To the weary-from-mead the morning-terror, 245 +The hateful sword-play. Then learnt I that quickly +The slaughter-fated men aroused from sleep +And to the baleful's sleeping-bower +The saddened[1] men pressed on in crowds, +To Holofernes: they only were thinking 250 +To their own lord to make known the fight, +Ere terror on him should take its seat, +The might of the Hebrews. They all imagined +That the prince of men and the handsome maid +In the beautiful tent were [still] together, 255 +Judith the noble and the lustful one, +Dreadful and fierce; though no earl there was +Who the warrior durst [then] awake, +Or durst discover how the helmeted warrior +With the holy maid had passed his time, 260 +The Creator's handmaid. The force approached, +The folk of the Hebrews, courageously fought +With hard battle-arms, fiercely repaid +Their former fights with shining[2] swords, +The old-time grudge; was of the Assyrians 265 +By that day's work the glory diminished, +The pride brought low. The warriors stood +'Round their prince's tent strongly excited, +Gloomy in mind. They then all together +Began to groan,[3] to cry aloud 270 +And gnash with their teeth,--afar from God,-- +Showing their anger; 'twas the end of their glory, +Of joy and valor. The earls were thinking +To awaken their lord; they did not succeed. +Then at last and too late was one so bold 275 +Of the battle-warriors that to the bower-tent +He daringly ventured, since need him compelled: +Found he then on the bed lying deadly-pale +His [own] gold-giver of breath bereft, +Of life deprived. Then quickly he fell 280 +Astounded to earth, gan tear his hair, +Excited in mind, and his garments too, +And this word he spake to the warriors [brave], +Who saddened there were standing without: +"Here is displayed our own destruction, 285 +The future betokened, that it is to the time +Now amongst men[4] almost arrived, +When we our lives shall lose together, +In battle perish: here lies with sword hewn +Our lord beheaded." They then sad-in-mind 290 +Threw down their weapons and sorrowful went +To hasten in flight. They fought on their tracks, +The mighty folk, till the greatest part +Of the army lay, in battle struck down, +On the victor-plain, hewn down with swords, 295 +To wolves for pleasure, and to slaughter-greedy +Fowls for a joy. Those who lived fled +The shields of their foes.[5] Went on their tracks +The Hebrews' host, honored with victory, +With glory ennobled; them took the Lord God 300 +Fairly to help, the Lord Almighty. +They bravely then with shining swords, +Stout-hearted heroes, a war-path wrought +Through heaps of their foes, hewed down their shields, +Cut through their phalanx: the warriors were 305 +Enraged in battle, the Hebrew men; +The thanes at that time were much delighted +At the combat with spears. Here fell in the dust +The highest part of the chiefest number +Of the Assyrians' princely nobility, 310 +Of the hateful race; very few came +Alive to their homes. The nobly-bold turned, +Warriors retiring, among the slaughtered, +The smoking corpses; it was time to take +For the dwellers-in-land from the loathsome ones, 315 +Their ancient foes deprived of life, +The gory booty, the shining trappings, +Shields and broad swords, brown-colored helmets, +Precious treasures. Gloriously had they +On that folk-place their foes overcome, 320 +The defenders of home their ancient foes +With swords put-to-sleep: behind them rested +Those who in life were most hateful to them +Of living races. Then all the people, +Of tribes most renowned, for one month's space, 325 +The proud twisted-locked, bore and carried +To that bright city, Bethulia [named], +Helmets and hip-swords, hoary byrnies, +War-trappings of men adorned with gold, +More precious treasures than any man 330 +Of the cunning-in-mind may be able to tell, +All that the warriors with might had won, +The bold under banners on the battle-place +By means of Judith's [most] clever lore, +The moody[6] maid's. As meed for her 335 +From that expedition, they brought for herself, +The spear-strong earls, of Holofernes +The sword and gory helm, likewise the byrnie broad, +Adorned with reddish gold, all that the warrior-chief, +The brave, of treasure had, or individual wealth, 340 +Of rings and jewels bright; that to the lady fair, +The wise-in-mind, gave they. For all that Judith said +Glory to the Lord of hosts, who honor to her gave, +Fame in realm of earth, and meed in heaven too, +Reward in the glory of heaven, because true faith she had 345 +In the Almighty ever; now at last she doubted not +Of the meed which long she yearned for. For that to the dear Lord be +Glory for ever and ever, who made both wind and air, +The heavens and roomy lands, likewise the rushing streams, +And joys of firmament too by means of his mercy mild. 350 + + [1] So Sw.; 'weary in mind,' Gn., Kr., C. + + [2] 'Hostile,' C., though 'flashing,' 194, and 'gleaming,' + 302. + + [3] Lit., 'cough.' + + [4] So Gn. and Kr.; 'with violence,' Sw.; 'with afflictions,' + C. + + [5] So Sw. and Kr.; 'Of the hostile shield-warriors,' Gn. and + C. + + [6] i.e., 'spirited.' + + + + +ATHELSTAN, + +OR + +THE FIGHT AT BRUNANBURH. + + +AEthelstan King, of earls the lord, +Of heroes ring-giver, and his brother too, +Edmund AEtheling, enduring fame +Earned in the fight with edges of swords +By Brunanburh. The board-wall they cleaved, 5 +The war-shields hewed with leavings of hammers +The sons of Edward. 'Twas natural to them +By right of descent that in battle they oft +'Gainst every foe their land defended, +Their hoards and homes. The foes were fallen, 10 +Folk of the Scots and men of the ships, +Fated they fell. The field ran thick[1] +With heroes' blood, when the risen sun +At morning-time, the mighty orb, +Shone o'er the earth, bright candle of God, 15 +Eternal Lord, till the noble creature +Sank to his rest. There many men lay +Struck down[2] with spears, men from the North, +Shot o'er the shield, and Scotsmen too, +Weary [and] war-filled. The West-Saxons forth 20 +The live-long day with legions of warriors +Pressed on the heels of the hostile foes; +They felled the fleers with force from behind +With sharp-ground swords. Shrank not the Mercians +From hard hand-play with any of heroes, 25 +Of those who with Anlaf o'er welling of waves +On the deck of the ship had sought the land, +Fated for fight. Five of them lay +On the battle-field, young kings [they were], +Slaughtered[3] with swords, and also seven 30 +Earls of Anlaf, and unnumbered host +Of seamen and Scots. There was forced to flee +The Northmen's chief, by need compelled +To the prow of his ship with few attendants. +Keel crowded[4] the sea, the king went forth 35 +On the fallow flood; he saved his life. +There too the aged escaped by flight +To his home in the North, Constantinus. +The hoar war-hero was unable to boast +Of attendance of men; he was robbed of his kinsmen, 40 +Bereaved of his friends on the battle-field, +Conquered in fight, and he left his son +On the place of slaughter wasted with wounds, +The boy in the battle. He durst not boast, +The gray-haired warrior, of the clash of swords, 45 +The aged enemy, nor Anlaf the more. +With their army-remnant they durst not rejoice +That in deeds of war they proved to be better +On the place of battle, the striking of standards, +The mingling of spears, the meeting of men, 50 +The clashing of weapons, when on slaughter-field +In contest with Edward's sons they contended. +Departed the Northmen in nailed ships, +Drear remnant of darts, on the sea of Dyng[5][?], +O'er the water deep Dublin to seek, 55 +Back to land of the Erse, depressed in mind. +Likewise the brothers both together, +King and aetheling, were seeking their home, +West-Saxons' land, exulting in war. +Behind them they let the corpses share 60 +The dark-feathered fowl, the raven black, +The crooked-beaked, and the ashy-feathered, +White-tailed eagle enjoy the prey, +The greedy war-hawk, and the gray-clad beast, +The wolf in the wood. More corpses there were not 65 +Upon this island ever as yet +Of folk down-felled before this time +With edges of sword, as books to us tell, +Sages of old, since hither from East +Angles and Saxons came to this land, 70 +O'er the broad ocean Britain [once] sought, +Haughty war-smiths the Welsh overcame, +Earls eager for honor this earth acquired. + + [1] Lit., 'became slippery,' Gn.; 'babbled' (as a brook), or + 'became dark,' Kr.; 'streamed,' Th. + + [2] 'Scattered,' Th. + + [3] Lit., 'put to sleep.' + + [4] Or, 'He pressed ship on the sea', 'drove,' Th. + + [5] Gn. and W. take _Dyng_ as a proper name, but no one knows + who Dyng was. Kr. leaves _on dynges mere_ untranslated, + with the remark: "_ist unaufgeklaert._" He thinks it refers + to some bay in Ireland, from which the invaders set out, but + why may it not be a name for the Irish Sea itself? Th. + translates 'on the roaring sea,' but adds 'quite + conjectural.' + + + + +BYRHTNOTH, + +OR + +THE FIGHT AT MALDON. + + +* * * * * * was broken. +Then bade he each youth his horse to forsake, +To hasten afar and forwards to go, +Be mindful of might, of mood courageous. +This Offa's kinsman at once perceived 5 +That the earl was unwilling faint heart to endure. +Then he let from his hands his lief[1] hawk fly, +His hawk to the holt, and to battle he stepped; +By that might one know that the knight was unwilling +To be weak in the war when to weapons he took. 10 +By him too would Eadric, by his overlord, stand, +His chief in the fight; then forth gan he bear +His spear to the battle: brave spirit had he +The while that with hands he was able to hold +Shield and broad sword; his boast he fulfilled,[2] 15 +When he 'fore his lord was bound to fight. +There Byrhtnoth gan then his warriors embolden, +Rode and gave rede, instructed his men +How they should stand, and the stead sustain, +And bade that rimmed shields they rightly should hold 20 +Fast with their fists, and frightened be never. +When he had the folk fairly emboldened, +With his men he alighted where was liefest to him, +Where his hearth-followers most faithful he knew. +Then stood on the stathe,[3] stoutly did call 25 +The wikings' herald, with words he spake, +Who boastfully bore from the brine-farers +An errand to th' earl, where he stood on the shore: +"To thee me did send the seamen snell,[4] +Bade to thee say, thou must send to them quickly 30 +Bracelets for safety; and 'tis better for you +That _ye_ this spear-rush with tribute buy off +Than _we_ in so fierce a fight engage. +We need not each spill,[5] if ye speed to this: +We will for the pay a peace confirm. 35 +If thou that redest who art highest in rank, +If thou thy lieges art willing to loose, +To pay to the seamen at their own pleasure +Money for peace, and take peace from us, +We will with the treasure betake us to ship, 40 +Fare on the flood, and peace with you confirm." +Byrhtnoth replied, his buckler uplifted, +Waved his slim spear, with words he spake, +Angry and firm gave answer to him: +"Hear'st thou, seafarer, what saith this folk? 45 +They will for tribute spear-shafts you pay, +Poisonous points and trusty[6] swords, +Those weapons that you in battle avail not. +Herald of seamen, hark[7] back again, +Say to thy people much sadder words, 50 +Here stands not unknown an earl with his band, +Who will defend this father-land, +AEthelred's home, mine own liege lord's, +His folk and field: ye're fated to fall, +Ye heathen, in battle. Too base it me seems 55 +That ye with our scats[8] to ship may go +Unfought against, so far ye now hither +Into our country have come within; +Ye shall not so gently treasure obtain; +Shall spear and sword sooner beseem us, 60 +Grim battle-play, ere tribute we give." +Then bade he shield bear, warriors advance, +So that on the burn-stathe[9] they all were standing. +Might not there for the water one war-band to th' other, +When flowing flood came after the ebb, 65 +Sea-streams interlocked; too long seemed it them +Till they together their spears should bear. +Then Panta's stream with pomp[10] [?] they beset, +East-Saxons' chief and the host from the ships: +No one of them might do harm to the other, 70 +But he who by dart's flight his death should receive. +The flood ebbed forth; the fleetmen stood ready, +Many of wikings, eager for war. +Bade heroes' buckler[11] then hold the bridge +A war-hardened warrior, who Wulfstan was named, 75 +Bold 'mid his kin (he was Ceola's son), +Who the first man with his dart shot down +That there most boldly stepped on the bridge. +There stood with Wulfstan warriors fearless, +AElfhere and Maccus, courageous the twain; 80 +At the ford they would not seek safety in flight, +But firm 'gainst the foes themselves they defended, +The while that they weapons were able to wield. +When they that perceived and earnestly saw +That there bridge-fenders [so] fierce they found, 85 +Began to lie these loathly guests: +Begged that out-going they might obtain, +Fare o'er the ford, their footmen lead. +Then gan the earl on account of his pride +Leave too much land to the loathly people. 90 +Began then to call o'er the water cold +The son[12] of Byrhthelm (the warriors listened): +"Now room is allowed you, come quickly to us, +Warriors to war; wot God alone +Who this battle-field may be able to keep." 95 +Waded the war-wolves, for water they recked not, +The wikings' band, west over Panta, +O'er the clear water carried their shields, +Boatmen to bank their bucklers bore. +There facing their foes ready were standing 100 +Byrhtnoth with warriors: with shields he bade +The war-hedge[13] work, and the war-band hold +Fast 'gainst the foes. Then fight was nigh, +Glory in battle; the time was come +That fated men should there [now] fall. 105 +Then out-cry was raised, the ravens circled, +Eagle eager for prey; on earth was uproar. +Then they let from their fists the file-hardened spears, +The darts well-ground, [fiercely][14] fly forth: +The bows were busy, board point received, 110 +Bitter the battle-rush, warriors fell down, +On either hands the youths lay dead. +Wounded was Wulfmaer, death-rest he chose, +Byrhtnoth's kinsman, with bills[15] was he, +His sister's son, mightily hewn. 115 +There was to the wikings recompense given; +Heard I that Edward one of them slew +Strongly with sword, stroke he withheld not, +That fell at his feet the fated warrior; +For that did his prince give thanks to him, 120 +To his bower-thane,[16] when he had opportunity. +So firmly stood the fierce-in-mind, +The youths in fight, eagerly thought +Who there with his spear might soonest be able +From a fated man the life to win, 125 +A warrior with weapons: the dead to earth fell. +Steadfast they stood; strengthened them Byrhtnoth, +Bade that each youth of battle should think +He who on the Danes glory would gain. +Went then a war-brave, his weapon uplifted, 130 +His shield for defence, and strode towards the chief; +So earnest he went, the earl to the churl: +Each for the other of evil was thinking. +Sent then the seaman his spear from the south +That wounded was the warrior's lord; 135 +Then he shoved with his shield that the shaft in two broke, +And the spear was shivered; so sprang it back. +Enraged was the warrior: with his spear he thrust +The wiking proud, who the wound him gave. +Wise was the warrior; he let his spear pierce 140 +Through the neck of the youth; his hand it guided +So that he his foe of life deprived. +Then he another speedily shot, +That the byrnie burst; in breast was he wounded +Through the ringed mail; there stood in his heart 145 +The poisonous point. The earl was the gladder; +Laughed the proud man, to his Maker gave thanks +For the work of that day that the Lord him gave. +Then let one of warriors a dart from his hands, +Fly from his fist, that forth it went 150 +Through that noble thane of AEthelred. +There stood by his side a youth not grown, +A boy in the fight, who very boldly +Drew from the warrior the bloody spear, +The son of Wulfstan, Wulfmaer the young; 155 +He let the hard weapon fly back again; +The point in-pierced, that on earth he lay +Who erst his lord strongly had struck. +Went then an armored man to the earl, +He would the warrior's jewels fetch back, 160 +Armor and rings and sword well-adorned. +Then Byrhtnoth drew his sword from its sheath, +Broad and brown-edged, and on byrnie he struck: +Too quickly him hindered one of the seamen, +When he of the earl the arm had wounded; 165 +Fell then to earth the fallow-hilt sword: +He might not hold the hardened brand, +His weapon wield. Yet the word he spake, +The hoary hero the youths encouraged, +Bade forwards go his good companions: 170 +He might not on foot longer stand firm; +He looked up to heaven, [the earl exclaimed:[17]] +"I thanks to thee give, Ruler of nations, +For all those joys that on earth I experienced: +Now, Maker mild, most need have I 175 +That thou to my spirit the blessing grant, +That my soul to thee may take its course, +Into thy power, Prince of angels, +With peace may go: I pray to thee, +That fiends of hell may not it harm." 180 +Then hewed him down the heathen hinds, +And both the warriors, who by him stood, +AElfnoth and Wulfmaer both lay down dead, +Beside their lord gave up their lives. +Then bowed they from battle who there would not be; 185 +There Odda's sons were erst in flight: +From battle went Godric, and the good one forsook, +Who had on him many a steed oft bestowed: +He leaped on the horse that his lord had owned, +Upon those trappings that right it was not, 190 +And his brothers with him both ran away, +Godrinc and Godwig, recked not of war, +But went from the fight, and sought the wood, +Fled to the fastness, and saved their lives, +And more of the men than was at all meet, 195 +If they those services all had remembered, +That he for their welfare to them had done; +So Offa to him one day had erst said +At the meeting-place, when he held a moot, +That there [very] proudly they many things spake 200 +Which after in need they would not perform.[18] +Then was down-fallen the prince of the folk, +AEthelred's earl: all of them saw, +The hearth-companions, that their lord lay dead. +Then hurried there forth the haughty thanes, 205 +The valiant men eagerly hastened: +They would then all the one of the two, +Their lives forsake or their loved one avenge. +So urged them on the son of AElfric, +A winter-young warrior, with words them addressed. 210 +Then AElfwine quoth (boldly he spake): +"Remember the times that we oft at mead spake, +When we on the bench our boast upraised, +Heroes in hall, the hard fight anent: +Now may be tested who is the true.[19] 215 +I will my lineage to all make known, +That I 'mong the Mercians of mickle race was, +My grandfather was Ealhhelm by name, +An alderman wise, with wealth endowed. +Ne'er shall 'mong this folk me thanes reproach 220 +That I from this host will hasten to wend, +My home to seek, now lies my lord +Down-hewn in fight; to me 'tis great harm: +By blood he was kin and by rank he was lord."[20] +Then went he forth, was mindful of feud, 225 +That he with his spear one of them pierced, +A sailor o' the folk, that he lay on the ground +Killed with his weapon. Gan he comrades exhort, +Friends and companions, that forth they should go. +Offa addressed them, his ash-spear shook: 230 +"Lo! AElfwine, thou hast all admonished, +Thanes, of the need. Now lieth our lord, +Earl on the earth, to us all there is need +That each one of us should strengthen the other +Warrior to war, while weapon he may 235 +[Still] have and hold, the hardened brand, +Spear and good sword. Us hath Godric, +Cowed son of Offa, all [basely] deceived: +So many men thought when on mare he rode, +On that proud steed, that it was our lord: 240 +Therefore in field here the folk was divided, +The phalanx broken: may perish his deed, +That he here so many men caused to flee!" +Leofsunu spake, and uplifted his shield, +His buckler for guard; to the warrior he quoth: 245 +"I promise thee this, that hence I will not +A foot's breadth flee, but further will go, +Avenge in battle mine own dear lord. +Me need not 'round Stourmere the steadfast heroes +With words reproach, now my friend has fallen, 250 +That, lacking my lord, home I depart, +Wend from the war, but weapons shall take me, +Spear and iron."[21] Full angry he strode, +Firmly he fought, flight he despised. +Then Dunnere spake, his spear he shook, 255 +The aged churl, called over all, +Bade that each warrior should Byrhtnoth avenge: +"He may not delay who thinks to avenge +His lord on the folk, nor care for his life." +Then forwards they went, they recked not of life; 260 +Gan then his followers valiantly fight, +Spear-bearers grim, and to God they prayed, +That they might avenge their own dear lord, +And upon their foes slaughter fulfil. +Then gan the hostage eagerly help: 265 +He was 'mong Northumbrians of valiant race, +The son of Ecglaf, his name was AEscferth: +Ne'er wavered he in that play of war, +But he hastened forth many a dart; +At times shot on shield, at times killed a chief, 270 +Ever and anon inflicted some wound, +The while that he weapon was able to wield. +Then still in front stood Edward the long, +Ready and eager; boastingly said +That he would not flee a foot-breadth of land, 275 +Backwards withdraw, when his better lay dead: +Broke he the shield-wall and fought 'gainst the warriors, +Till he his ring-giver upon the seamen +Worthily avenged, ere he lay on the field. +So [too] did AEtheric, noble companion, 280 +Ready and eager, earnestly fought he; +Sigebryht's brother and many another +Cleft the curved[22] board, them bravely defended; +Shield's border burst, and the byrnie sang +A terrible song. In battle then slew 285 +Offa the seaman that on earth he fell, +And the kinsman of Gadd there sought the ground; +Quickly in battle was Offa hewn down: +He had though fulfilled what he promised his lord, +As he before vowed in face of his ring-giver, 290 +That both of them should ride to the borough, +Hale to their homes, or in battle should fall, +Upon the slaughter-place die of their wounds; +He lay like a thane his lord beside. +Then was breaking of boards; the seamen stormed, 295 +Enraged by the fight; the spear oft pierced +The fated one's life-house. Forth then went Wigstan, +Son of Thurstan, fought 'gainst the foes: +He was in the throng the slayer of three, +Ere Wigelin's bairn lay dead on the field. 300 +There fierce was the fight: firmly they stood, +Warriors in war, the fighters fell, +Weary with wounds; fell corpses to earth. +Oswald and Ealdwald during all the while, +Both of the brothers, emboldened the warriors, 305 +Their kinsman-friends bade they in words, +That they in need should there endure, +Unwaveringly their weapons use. +Byrhtwold [then] spake, uplifted his shield,-- +Old comrade was he,--his spear he shook, 310 +He very boldly exhorted the warriors: +"The braver shall thought be, the bolder the heart, +The more the mood,[23] as lessens our might. +Here lieth our lord, all hewn to pieces, +The good on the ground: ever may grieve 315 +Who now from this war-play thinketh to wend. +I am old in years: hence will I not, +But here beside mine own dear lord, +So loved a man, I purpose to lie." +So AEthelgar's bairn them all emboldened, 320 +Godric, to battle: oft let he his spear, +His war-spear wind amongst the wikings; +So 'midst the folk foremost he went, +Hewed he and felled, till in battle he lay; +This was not that Godric who fled from the fight. 325 +* * * * * * * * + + [1] Dear. + + [2] Or, 'maintained.' + + [3] Bank. + + [4] Bold. + + [5] Destroy. + + [6] Lit., 'old.' + + [7] Lit., 'announce.' + + [8] Money. + + [9] Bank of the stream. + + [10] i.e., 'battle-array,' Sw., but the word is uncertain; Kr. + suggests 'fascines'; Zl. merely gives '_Prunk_.' + + [11] i.e., Byrhtnoth. + + [12] i.e., Byrhtnoth. + + [13] i.e., the phalanx with interlocked shields. + + [14] Some such word as _grame_, or _grimme_, seems needed for + the alliteration. + + [15] i.e., battle-axes. + + [16] Chamberlain. + + [17] Inserted by Kr. to fill the _lacuna_, whom W. follows; + Sw. and Zl. omit. + + [18] Lit., 'suffer,' 'endure.' + + [19] Lit., 'bold.' + + [20] Lit., 'He was both my kinsman and my lord.' + + [21] i.e., 'sword.' + + [22] i.e., 'hollow shields.' _Cellod_ is found only here and + in Finnsburg, 29. + + [23] i.e., 'courage.' + + + + +THE DREAM OF THE ROOD. + + +Lo! choicest of dreams I will relate, +What dream I dreamt in middle of night +When mortal men reposed in rest. +Methought I saw a wondrous wood +Tower aloft with light bewound, 5 +Brightest of trees; that beacon was all +Begirt with gold; jewels were standing +Four[1] at surface of earth, likewise were there five +Above on the shoulder-brace. All angels of God beheld it, +Fair through future ages; 'twas no criminal's cross indeed, 10 +But holy spirits beheld it there, +Men upon earth, all this glorious creation. +Strange was that victor-tree, and stained with sins was I, +With foulness defiled. I saw the glorious tree +With vesture[2] adorned winsomely shine, 15 +Begirt with gold; bright gems had there +Worthily decked the tree of the Lord.[3] +Yet through that gold I might perceive +Old strife of the wretched, that first it gave +Blood on the stronger [right] side. With sorrows was I oppressed, 20 +Afraid for that fair sight; I saw the ready beacon +Change in vesture and hue; at times with moisture covered, +Soiled with course of blood; at times with treasure adorned. +Yet lying there a longer while, +Beheld I sad the Saviour's tree 25 +Until I heard that words it uttered; +The best of woods gan speak these words: +"'Twas long ago (I remember it still) +That I was hewn at end of a grove, +Stripped from off my stem; strong foes laid hold of me there, 30 +Wrought for themselves a show, bade felons raise me up; +Men bore me on their shoulders, till on a mount they set me; +Fiends many fixed me there. Then saw I mankind's Lord +Hasten with mickle might, for He would sty[4] upon me. +There durst I not 'gainst word of the Lord 35 +Bow down or break, when saw I tremble +The surface of earth; I might then all +My foes have felled, yet fast I stood. +The Hero young begirt[5] Himself, Almighty God was He, +Strong and stern of mind; He stied on the gallows high, 40 +Bold in sight of many, for man He would redeem. +I shook when the Hero clasped me, yet durst not bow to earth, +Fall to surface of earth, but firm I must there stand. +A rood was I upreared; I raised the mighty King, +The Lord of Heaven; I durst not bend me. 45 +They drove their dark nails through me; the wounds are seen upon me, +The open gashes of guile; I durst harm none[6] of them. +They mocked us both together; all moistened with blood was I, +Shed from side of the man, when forth He sent His spirit. +Many have I on that mount endured 50 +Of cruel fates; I saw the Lord of Hosts +Strongly outstretched; darkness had then +Covered with clouds the corse of the Lord, +The brilliant brightness; the shadow continued,[7] +Wan 'neath the welkin. There wept all creation, 55 +Bewailed the King's death; Christ was on the cross. +Yet hastening thither they came from afar +To the Son of the King[8]: that all I beheld. +Sorely with sorrows was I oppressed; yet I bowed 'neath the hands of men, +Lowly with mickle might. Took they there Almighty God, 60 +Him raised from the heavy torture; the battle-warriors left me +To stand bedrenched with blood; all wounded with darts was I. +There laid they the weary of limb, at head of His corse they stood, +Beheld the Lord of Heaven, and He rested Him there awhile, +Worn from the mickle war. Began they an earth-house to work, 65 +Men in the murderers'[9] sight, carved it of brightest stone, +Placed therein victories' Lord. Began sad songs to sing +The wretched at eventide; then would they back return +Mourning from the mighty prince; all lonely[10] rested He there. +Yet weeping[11] we then a longer while 70 +Stood at our station: the [voice[12]] arose +Of battle-warriors; the corse grew cold, +Fair house of life. Then one gan fell +Us[13] all to earth; 'twas a fearful fate! +One buried us in deep pit, yet of me the thanes of the Lord, 75 +His friends, heard tell; [from earth they raised me],[14] +And me begirt with gold and silver. +Now thou mayst hear, my dearest man, +That bale of woes[15] have I endured, +Of sorrows sore. Now the time is come, 80 +That me shall honor both far and wide +Men upon earth, and all this mighty creation +Will pray to this beacon. On me God's Son +Suffered awhile; so glorious now +I tower to Heaven, and I may heal 85 +Each one of those who reverence me; +Of old I became the hardest of pains, +Most loathsome to ledes[16] [nations], the way of life, +Right way, I prepared for mortal men.[17] +Lo! the Lord of Glory honored me then 90 +Above the grove,[18] the guardian of Heaven, +As He His mother, even Mary herself, +Almighty God before all men +Worthily honored above all women. +Now thee I bid, my dearest man, 95 +That thou this sight shalt say to men, +Reveal in words, 'tis the tree of glory, +On which once suffered Almighty God +For the many sins of all mankind, +And also for Adam's misdeeds of old. 100 +Death tasted He there; yet the Lord arose +With His mickle might for help to men. +Then stied He to Heaven; again shall come +Upon this mid-earth to seek mankind +At the day of doom the Lord Himself, 105 +Almighty God, and His angels with Him; +Then He will judge, who hath right of doom, +Each one of men as here before +In this vain life he hath deserved. +No one may there be free from fear 110 +In view of the word that the Judge will speak. +He will ask 'fore the crowd, where is the man +Who for name of the Lord would bitter death +Be willing to taste, as He did on the tree. +But then they will fear, and few will bethink them 115 +What they to Christ may venture to say. +Then need there no one be filled with fear[19] +Who bears in his breast the best of beacons; +But through the rood a kingdom shall seek +From earthly way each single soul 120 +That with the Lord thinketh to dwell." +Then I prayed to the tree with joyous heart, +With mickle might, when I was alone +With small attendance[20]; the thought of my mind +For the journey was ready; I've lived through many 125 +Hours of longing. Now 'tis hope of my life +That the victory-tree I am able to seek, +Oftener than all men I alone may +Honor it well; my will to that +Is mickle in mind, and my plea for protection 130 +To the rood is directed. I've not many mighty +Of friends on earth; but hence went they forth +From joys of the world, sought glory's King; +Now live they in Heaven with the Father on high, +In glory dwell, and I hope for myself 135 +On every day when the rood of the Lord, +Which here on earth before I viewed, +In this vain life may fetch me away +And bring me then, where bliss is mickle, +Joy in the Heavens, where the folk of the Lord 140 +Is set at the feast, where bliss is eternal; +And may He then set me where I may hereafter +In glory dwell, and well with the saints +Of joy partake. May the Lord be my friend, +Who here on earth suffered before 145 +On the gallows-tree for the sins of man! +He us redeemed, and gave to us life, +A heavenly home. Hope was renewed, +With blessing and bliss, for the sufferers of burning. +The Son was victorious on that fateful journey, 150 +Mighty and happy,[21] when He came with a many,[22] +With a band of spirits to the kingdom of God, +The Ruler Almighty, for joy to the angels +And to all the saints, who in Heaven before +In glory dwelt, when their Ruler came, 155 +Almighty God, where was His home. + + [1] _Feowere_, B.'s emendation for MS. _faegere_, 'fair.' + + [2] Silken cords, or tassels, W.; sailyards, ropes, in Hall + and Sweet. + + [3] _Wealdendes_, S.'s emendation for MS. _wealdes_, 'wood'; + so Kl. + + [4] Sty, 'mount,' common in Middle English. + + [5] Here and below W. gives the corresponding verses from the + Ruthwell Cross. They will also be found in Stopford + Brooke's "Early English Literature," p. 337, q.v. + + [6] Gr. changes MS. _naenigum_ to _aenigum_ and others follow; + W. as MS. + + [7] _Foreth-eode_, not _for-etheode_, 'overcame,' as Sw. W.'s note + is an oversight. + + [8] MS. _to þam aeethelinge_. Sw. follows Ruthwell Cross, _aeethele + to anum_. + + [9] _Banan_ must be taken as gen. pl.; B. reads _banana_; Sw. + thinks it "a mistake for some other [word], possibly + _beorg_," and takes _banan_ as gen. sing. referring to the + cross, though he adds, "this is very improbable." Truly so, + as the cross is speaking. + + [10] _Maete werode_, lit., 'with a small band,' but it means + 'by himself.' + + [11] _Greotende_ is Gr.'s emendation for MS. _reotende_; B. + _hreotende_; K. _geotende_; Sw. as Gr. + + [12] _Stefn_ is Kl.'s emendation to fill _lacuna_. W. prefers + it, but does not think it convincing. + + [13] _Us_ here must refer to the _three_ crosses, that of + Christ and those of the two thieves. + + [14] This half-line is Gr.'s emendation to fill _lacuna_ in + MS. Sw. and W. leave it blank. + + [15] Or, 'of the wicked,' 'of criminals.' + + [16] I have used this Middle English word for sake of the + alliteration. + + [17] Sw.'s text ends here. It was translated a few years ago + in _Poet-Lore_ as if it were the whole poem. + + [18] MS. _holmwudu_; K. _holtwudu_, and so Gr. with (?). + + [19] MS. _unforht_, but Gr.'s _anforht_ suits the sense + better. + + [20] i.e., 'by myself.' See on 69. + + [21] Lit., 'speedy,' 'successful.' + + [22] A company, a crowd; common in Middle English. + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Elene; Judith; Athelstan, or the Fight +at Brunanburh; Byrhtnoth, or the Fight at Maldon; and the Dream of the Rood, by Anonymous + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK ELENE AND OTHERS *** + +***** This file should be named 15879.txt or 15879.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + https://www.gutenberg.org/1/5/8/7/15879/ + +Produced by David Starner, Annika Feilbach and the Online +Distributed Proofreading Team. (www.pgdp.net) + + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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