medieval-religion: Scholarly discussions of medieval religion and culture
Many thanks, Andre. Virtually all the English and Welsh depictions of Armel
(carved alabaster plaques, carvings on tombs, paintings on rood screens,
the Romsey reredos) show him wearing armour under his chasuble. I agree,
though, that the Merevale depiction is more clearly military than most.
What I would love to know, though, is why Henry chose this particular saint
when he was in danger of shipwreck. I am aware (from the work of Julia
Smith, Elissa Henken and others) that surviving written hagiographies may
only represent a fraction of the oral traditions about a saint, so I wonder
whether there may have been an oral tradition involving Armel and a ship
(possibly involving his journey from Wales to Brittany) which has left no
written record.
I have a photo of the alabaster carving showing the ship in the background,
if you would like it off list.
Best wishes
Maddy
Dr Madeleine Gray, in the foothills of God's golden county of Gwent
School of Humanities and Science, University of Wales, Newport
Caerleon Campus, PO Box 179, Newport NP18 3YG. Tel: +44 (0)1633.432675
'A good thesis is like a pig. You don't throw anything away, and even after
decades you can still re-use it.' (Umberto Eco)
History at University of Wales, Newport: http://timezone.newport.ac.uk
Gwent County History Association website:
http://gwent-county-history-association.newport.ac.uk
Cistercian Way: http://cistercian-way.newport.ac.uk
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