Neil Ripley Ker facts for kids
Neil Ripley Ker (born 1908, died 1982) was a very important expert in Anglo-Saxon literature. This means he studied old writings from early English history. He worked at the University of Oxford, where he taught about old handwriting. He is most famous for his book, Catalogue of Manuscripts Containing Anglo-Saxon. This book helped many other scholars understand ancient texts.
About Neil Ker's Life
Neil Ker was born in Brompton, London. He went to two famous schools: Eton College and Magdalen College, Oxford. At Oxford, he studied English language and literature. He earned his first degree in 1931 and another in 1933.
During the Second World War, Neil Ker was a conscientious objector. This means he chose not to fight in the war because of his personal beliefs.
In 1945, he became a special member, called a fellow, at Magdalen College. The next year, he started teaching at Oxford University. His job was to teach about palaeography. This is the study of old handwriting and ancient documents.
Neil Ker retired from his jobs at Oxford in 1968. After retiring, he focused on his biggest project. This was a series of books called Medieval Manuscripts in British Libraries. He finished two full books and most of a third. He also left notes for a fourth book.
His Lasting Impact
The British Academy gives out special money every year. These grants are named after Neil Ker. They help scholars who write books about old manuscripts. These books must look closely at the unique features of the original handwritten documents.
Important Books by Neil Ker
Neil Ker wrote many important books. His most famous one is:
- 1957: Catalogue of Manuscripts Containing Anglo-Saxon
