Home / Arts and Entertainment / Oldest English Poem Found in Roman Library
Oldest English Poem Found in Roman Library
17 May
Summary
- The oldest known English poem, 'Caedmon's Hymn,' was found in Rome.
- Composed in the 7th century, the poem is written in Old English.
- The manuscript containing the poem dates back to the 9th century.
In a remarkable discovery made within a Roman library, researchers have identified what is believed to be the oldest surviving English poem. The finding, unearthed from a 9th-century manuscript, features 'Caedmon's Hymn,' originally composed in Old English during the 7th century.
This significant poem was written by a Northumbrian agricultural worker and is notable for appearing within the main Latin text of the "Ecclesiastical History of the English People" by the Venerable Bede. This placement is extraordinary compared to earlier copies where the poem was often an afterthought.
The manuscript's journey is extensive, having been transcribed by monks in northern Italy, moved through various collections, and eventually acquired by Italy's culture ministry in 1972. It has resided in Rome's library since then, largely unnoticed until recent scholarly examination.
This discovery provides crucial insights into the early diffusion of the English language, suggesting its importance was recognized much earlier than previously understood. It connects us directly to the foundational period of written English literature.
