Elrington and Bosworth Professor of Anglo-Saxon facts for kids
The Elrington and Bosworth Professorship of Anglo-Saxon is a very important job at the University of Cambridge. It's like being the main expert in something called Anglo-Saxon studies. This special role focuses on the history, language, and culture of early England, from a long time ago.
What is the Elrington and Bosworth Professorship?
This special job is the most important one for studying Anglo-Saxon at the University of Cambridge. Anglo-Saxon refers to the people, language, and culture of early England, from about the 5th century to the Norman Conquest in 1066. The person who holds this professorship is usually the head of the Department of Anglo-Saxon, Norse and Celtic, University of Cambridge. This means they lead the department that teaches and researches this fascinating historical period.
How the Professorship Began
The idea for this professorship started a long time ago. In 1867, a man named Joseph Bosworth gave money to the university. He was already a professor of Anglo-Saxon at Oxford. His generous gift grew over time. By 1878, there was enough money to pay a professor £500 a year. This was a good salary back then!
The professorship was named after Joseph Bosworth and his wife, Anne Elliot. She was previously married to Colonel Hamilton Elrington. So, the name honors both of them for making this important academic position possible. The first professor was chosen in 1878.
Who Are the Elrington and Bosworth Professors?
Many brilliant scholars have held this important position over the years. They have all helped us learn more about the Anglo-Saxon world. Here is a list of the professors:
- Walter William Skeat (1878–1912)
- Hector Munro Chadwick (1912–1941)
- Bruce Dickins (1946–1957)
- Dorothy Whitelock (1957–1969)
- Peter Alan Martin Clemoes (1969–1982)
- Raymond Ian Page (1984–1991)
- Michael Lapidge (1991–1999)
- Simon Douglas Keynes (1999–2019)
- Rosalind Love (2019–present)
