Dear Colleagues,
One manuscript of the South English Legendary's account of the life of St.
Margaret of Antioch has a marginal note at the spot where a dove appears
to confirm that Margaret's final prayer of intercession for those who
remember her will be granted by God. The note simply says "Columba."
I'm guessing that this is a reference to another dove scene in the legend
of St. Columba, but my saints dictionary wasn't much help on which Columba
this might be, and what scene in particular the medieval reader might have
had in mind. Doves seem to be a fairly common topos in vitae, and I'm curious about why
this particular link was made. (The note is in the Harley ms. of the
SEL).
Suggestions for a readily available edition of the vita would also be
appreciated.
With thanks in advance,
Wendy Larson
Boston University
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