Inscriptions and Communication in Anglo-Saxon England AD 600-900

Abstract

A series of 62 inscribed moveable objects, such as jewellery, weapons and armour, is analyzed in order to retrace the communicational strategies there displayed. Issues concerning the various levels of literacy in Anglo-Saxon England in the years AD 600-900 are raised. In an attempt to investigate the sources a model has been constructed, which takes into consideration the various codes displayed in the objects. The ability of intended and secondary audiences to understand the messages sent in the inscriptions is also taken into account.