Description
Book SynopsisA fresh approach to ambiguities of language in Piers Plowman.Starting from a consideration of medieval definitions of the word as both
logos and
verbum, this reading of
Piers Plowmanshows that both scholastic and mystic attitudes to language are at play within the poem.Concepts of authority, authorship, interpretation and translation are explored and it is made clear that these are inextricably linked, both in critical debates and in the text itself. The study progresses towards a conclusion that the full potential of language can be realised only when the desire to express things unambiguously is abandoned and ambiguity itself is allowed to be a power and a way of understanding. The rich fabric of Langland's text thusbecomes something to enjoy and participate in, rather than battle with or seek to control. Furthermore, it proves to be a meeting point for medieval and modern theories of text and reading, which are themselves enlivened by this complex and vivid poem.G.A. RUDD lectures in English at the University of Liverpool.
Trade ReviewInteresting and stimulating... a thoughtful and challenging account of Piers Plowman. * ENGLISH STUDIES *
Table of ContentsPart 1 Language, knowledge and authority: language and the "Logos"; aspects of knowledge; the authority of writing; Langland's "Reason" and his heritage; "Reason and Ymaginatif". Part 2 Knowledge through reason: the power of a trained mind; the progression to learning and the role of scripture; the doctor - the last word in scholasticism; speech as God-given resource. Part 3 Knowledge beyond reason: knowledge beyond reason; dowel, dobet, dobest and the three lives; Haukyn and the paradox of the active life; the first inner dream and the force of experience; Trajan; wit through wonders. Part 4 Managing language: naming and interpretation; "Dixit Insipiens".
