The Tongue's Worth: The Use of Language to Preserve Culture in Havelok the Dane and The Mabinogion

Author

Robin Davidson Smith, Longwood University

Date of Award

7-10-1990

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts

Department

English

First Advisor

Carolyn M. Craft, Ph.D.

Second Advisor

Rosemary Sprague, Ph.D.

Third Advisor

Massie C. Stinson, Ph.D.

Abstract

Most Americans are unaware of how far back the cultural dichotomy goes, its source, or how significant it is in determining our behavior. Therefore, the use of language to preserve culture in Havelok the Dane and The Mabinogion is examined. The Mabinogion and Havelok the Dane are quite different in provenance, style, and purpose; yet, there are similarities. Each work has pathos, humor, excitement, and human emotion. Most importantly, each explores the questions of who we are, what we are, what we might become, and why we are, with seriousness, sympathy, and an occasional chortle at the ridiculousness of us all.

Recommended Citation

Smith, Robin Davidson, "The Tongue's Worth: The Use of Language to Preserve Culture in Havelok the Dane and The Mabinogion" (1990). Theses & Honors Papers. 318.
https://digitalcommons.longwood.edu/etd/318