Reading in Medieval St. Gall

This study explores medieval reading practices in Germany, focusing on Notker Labeo's manuscripts. It highlights his innovative teaching methods that integrated Latin and German, enhancing understanding of literacy during that era.

Reading in Medieval St. Gall explores the intricate relationship between Latin and the vernacular languages in the context of medieval education in Germany. The book focuses on the teaching methods employed at the Abbey of St. Gall, particularly through the works of Notker Labeo, a prominent scholar and monk from the tenth century. In this period, learning to read involved not just understanding German but also mastering Latin, which was essential for scholarly pursuits.

Anna Grotans delves into Notker's innovative pedagogical techniques, which combined traditional monastic practices with new approaches to literacy. Notker's manuscripts reveal how he provided translations into German, simplified grammatical structures, and used punctuation to aid comprehension. These methods were designed to enhance students' reading skills and facilitate oral performance, showcasing a unique blend of orality and literacy. Grotans illustrates these concepts with numerous examples from Notker's work, highlighting the significance of his contributions to medieval education.

The study offers valuable insights into the dynamics of reading and comprehension during this era, shedding light on the broader implications of language use in both formal and informal settings. By examining the interplay between Latin and Old High German, Grotans enriches our understanding of medieval literacy and the educational practices that shaped it. Overall, Reading in Medieval St. Gall serves as an important resource for anyone interested in the history of reading and the evolution of language in medieval Europe.