The Classical Canon and its Uses in Late Late Antiquity: 600–775 CE

Abstract

Abstract: This essay has two essential aims. The first is to provide an overview of classical Latin texts known in Western Europe ca. 600–ca. 775 ce. The second is to establish what classical works were favored and formed literary tastes and literary techniques. The survey concentrates on a few regions and several influential writers of late Late Antiquity. It draws evidence from dated manuscripts, book-lists, glossaries, and quotations to provide a rounded picture of the literary culture of western Europe in those years. Using the terms Old Canon (works written 200 bce–150 ce) and New Canon (works written 150–550 ce), evidence shows that few Old Canon works were copied or read in comparison to New Canon works. By contrast, some New Canon works were received in the seventh century and copied and commented in profusion from the late eighth century onwards. Although book production was determined chiefly by the principle of utility, selecting works essential to Bible study, reading tastes tell a different story. Some "elite" authors imbibed New Canon writings and imitated their techniques, including narrative structure, forgery, parody, and satire. The essay invites a re-evaluation of the literary culture of the years 600–ca. 775 ce.