Welcome to Muddling through the Medieval! This blog is dedicated to my efforts to research and write a dissertation on early medieval English literature, the title of which is currently “Wræclastas: Paths of Redemption in Early Medieval English Literature.” I will post new findings in my manuscript research, pictures of pretty and ugly manuscripts alike (the poor Ormulum), random brainstorms, occasional “Eureka!” outbursts, and general medieval fun.

I believe the title, Muddling through the Medieval, is an apt title because more often than not I find myself taking two steps forward and one step back with each new discovery that I make. Perhaps I am “working” my way through the medieval, but that word neglects the confusion, and often frustration, in which I sometimes find myself. No, this challenge is most definitely an exercise in muddling. I hope you’ll join me!