In the long ninth century, in both England and on the Continent, Christianity penetrated more deeply than before into social practice, as rulers and churchmen urged greater self-discipline on their people. This essay examines some of the ways in which the symbolism of bodily weakness, and reparability, was used to inscribe new ideas on minds, and new ideas impinged on the ways bodies were treated. Particularly close attention is paid to the evidence of poetry and prayer which both affected and reflected lives lived at court and elsewhere. This takes us to the heart of projects for political and religious correction, and reveals an unexpected amount of human agency.

(READ 26 November 2004)