The Cerne Abbas Giant has once more been making the historical headlines in newspapers and online. I have written several times in recent years on this site about this figure and the important new research into its date and origins.
Now two academic researchers from Oxford University have advanced the theory that the figure was a prominent marker for a site recognised as being for the assembly of Anglo-Saxon troops.
This research is set out in an article from the University on Phys.org at New research shows the Cerne Abbas Giant was a muster station for King Alfred's armies
The Daily Telegraph has a good article about the chalk figures in the English landscape by Matthew Green. It concentrates in particular on the Cerne Abbas Giant, the Long Man of Wilmington, and the White Horse at Uffington - the three which appear unquestionably ancient, even if there remain considerable questions as to their origins, alteration and meaning. Other, later, examples are also discussed and put in their historical context.
The article can be read at The truth about the mysterious chalk figures of Britain
By the way a friend made the point yo me years ago that when in Dorset one should send postcards to friends of the Cerne Abbas Giant - it is, after all, the only obscene image you can send en clair through the Royal Mail….
No comments:
Post a Comment