Luisa Ostacchini

Thesis Title: Representing and Repurposing the Continent in Ælfric's Lives of Saints

Supervisors: Dr. Francis Leneghan and Dr. Siân Grønlie

Doctoral Research: My thesis examines the 'translation', broadly defined, of continental texts, ideas, people, and places in Ælfric’s Lives of Saints. The texts in the LOS are often studied individually, but have rarely been considered within their context as a collection. Through close comparison of the lives with their Latin source texts and with each other, my thesis investigates ways in which they portray the continent. In doing so, I aim to reach a better understanding of how Ælfric’s concept of the continent was used to inform both his construction of Anglo-Saxon England and his vernacular theology. 

Research Interests: Old English and Medieval Latin literature, translation, hagiography, vernacular theology, insular-continental relations, medieval travel, the Benedictine Reform.

Teaching: I have taught a wide range of literature, from Beowulf to Milton. In 2019-20 I am teaching Prelims Paper 2 (early medieval literature c. 650–1350), FHS Paper 2 (1350–1550), and Paper 6: Border Crossings 1350–1645, as well as occasional lectures on Ælfric's Lives of Saints and study skills sessions for third year undergraduates.