My Latest Contribution to Western Literature
In my latest column in BOSS Magazine, I explain how Normandy’s William the Bastard improved his nickname and the sound of English.
pgs. 30-33. Yes, there is a mistake on the last page. Proofreaders should edit words but not centuries.
Entertaining and informative. Even the barbarian proofreader couldn’t sully my enjoyment in reading it.
Thank you, Michael.
Tomes have been written on the Norman Conquest. And I had a limit of 1400 words. As it turned, the editor pared that down to 1200 words to make space for the illustrations. To my surprise, none was of the Bayeux Tapestry–which I had recommended.
The editor also deleted the specific epithet “William the Bastard” although she did retain some hints of his parents’ informality.
Here is an entertaining and irreverent footnote to the history. In return for the Pope’s blessing, William did promise to bring England’s clergy into line with Rome. It seems that the English priests were not complying with the Papacy’s new policy about clergy celibacy. At the time, English priests were allowed wives or at least housekeepers “with benefits.” The Norman bishops eventually enforced Rome’s inhibitions on the parishes. (Knowing my editor, I never attempted to include that anecdote in the article.)
Congratulations!!! I can’t wait to read this!!!!
Leslie