The Old English Physiologus: Poetry Guide and Free Edition
The Old English Physiologus: author and translator credits, catalogue synopsis, subjects and links to the Gutenberg reading formats.
The Old English Physiologus is catalogued by Project Gutenberg with author credits for Cynewulf. The listed translation credits are Cook, Albert S. (Albert Stanburrough) (1853–1927); Pitman, James Hall (1896–?).
Catalogue synopsis
Project Gutenberg supplies this automated synopsis of the opening text:
"The Old English Physiologus" by Cynewulf is a collection of three poetic writings likely composed during the early medieval period. This work serves as a bestiary, offering moral and religious lessons derived from various creatures. Unlike typical bestiaries that include numerous animals, this text focuses on specific allegorical interpretations of a panther, a sea monster (asp-turtle), and a partridge, reflective of the era's fascination with nature's symbolism. The content revolves around the unique characteristics and lessons associated with each of the chosen animals. The panther, depicted as kind and enchanting, symbolizes Christ, with its beauty representing divine glory and the fragrance of redemption that draws followers to God. The asp-turtle, likened to a deceptive fiend, warns against the perils of temptation and the treachery of evil that ensnares the unwary. Lastly, the partridge serves as a metaphor for the soul's journey; just as the partridge raises chicks from stolen eggs, the narrative conveys a message about reclaiming one's true divine parentage. Each creature's portrayal not only engages the reader's imagination but also invites reflection on deeper spiritual truths embodied in the narratives.
Book and edition facts
- Title: The Old English Physiologus
- Author credits: Cynewulf
- Catalogue language: ang, English
- Translator credits: Cook, Albert S. (Albert Stanburrough) (1853–1927); Pitman, James Hall (1896–?)
Catalogue subjects
- Animals -- Folklore -- Early works to 1800
- Animals -- Folklore -- Poetry
- Bestiaries
- Didactic poetry, English (Old)
- Exeter book
Gutenberg collections
- Category: British Literature
- Category: Mythology, Legends & Folklore
- Category: Poetry
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View the complete Gutenberg catalogue record. Project Gutenberg identifies this edition as public domain in the United States; that designation does not establish its copyright status in every country.
Source notes
Catalogue metadata is public domain and is supplied through Gutendex, which imports Gutenberg's machine-readable catalogue. The automated synopsis is source-supplied, not an independently verified review. Author dates above describe the credited people; no ebook release date is presented as the book's original publication date.
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