Human Affairs
A Childhood on the Run
“He had a harp made that was so large that he put the girl Aslaug inside it, along with many precious objects of gold and silver. ” […]
Articles by Saxo
Uncategorized
Beware the Women of the Vines
“The man became one plant with the vine, striking root beside it; his fingers turned to vine twigs, the tendrils were all round him, and embryo grape-clusters were already visible on him.” […]
Medieval Mentality
A Disagreement about Decapitation
“King Hrolf hadn’t been paying attention to their conversation, but he noticed the head flying off. King Hrolf became so angry at this that he was on the verge of attacking Asmund. He said that such a wicked and outrageous deed had been done that they would never recover from the disgrace.” […]
Greek and Roman
Luxury-Loving People
“He remarked after a visit to Sparta that he used to wonder at the bravery of the Spartans, but that now, after witnessing what a frugal and utterly miserable life they led, he could only conclude that they were no better than the lowest of men.” […]
Humor
A Pussy for a Birdie
–“What are you asking for it, tell?”
–“My lady, for a fuck it’s yours.”
–“Saint Peter help me now, because
I haven’t any fuck to trade!” […]
Britons and Celts
The Royal Poisoner
“The King immediately obeyed the advice of the man who had betrayed him, and dropped off to sleep, imagining that he was about to recover his health. The poison ran quickly through his veins and the pores of his body; and thus death, which has the trick of sparing no man, came to him while he slept.” […]
Orient
To Answer Before Osiris
“I have not dammed a flowing stream,
I have not quenched a needed fire.
I have not neglected the days of meat offerings,
I have not detained cattle belonging to the god,
I have not stopped a god in his procession.
I am pure, I am pure, I am pure, I am pure!” […]
Humor
A Gentleman Wets His Foal (In Bed)
‘“Where is your foal, sweetheart?” she said.
“Between my legs, my love,” he replied, “and you may touch him, but quietly, since he is very shy.”’ […]
Uncategorized
Never Trust a Horse Skull
“Dismounting from his horse, he laughed and remarked, “So I was supposed to receive my death from this skull?” And he stamped upon the skull with his foot.” […]
Britons and Celts
Romance of a Scottish Legend
“The lovers met, and now a modest kiss
Lifts up the hero’s soul to laughing bliss.
Love feels the alarm, starts up in fond surprise,
And through his veins anew impetuous flies,
Inflames his soul, and sparkles through his eyes.” […]