Dating the Old English Poem 'Durham'

A critical reassessment of the dating of the Old English poem 'Durham' challenges long-standing assumptions about its composition period. The study argues that the poem likely predates 1104, contrary to previous claims that it was written after the translation of St Cuthbert's relics into Durham Cathedral. This conclusion is supported by a combination of documentary, linguistic, and archaeological evidence, which undermines arguments for a post-1104 date. The research also highlights the significance of Symeon of Durham's allusion to the poem in his 'Libellus de exordio,' suggesting that the poem was an established text inherited by the monks rather than a recent creation. Additionally, the study strengthens O'Donnell's independent findings while addressing gaps and engaging with subsequent scholarship, including Evan's work, which appeared after O'Donnell's article was published.

BAILEY, & CAMBRIDGE. (2016). DATING THE OLD ENGLISH POEM ‘DURHAM’. Medium Ævum, 85(1), 1. https://doi.org/10.2307/26396467