[Janice D. Soderling]

Just a quick comment. I printed out the text and read it for breakfast and want to say that Peter's argument based on alliteration is very compelling. The next thought that arises is whether "hrefn" might be a generic term for all black birds and (daring conjecture) the differences (say between raven and blackbird--in the modern sense--might then have been distinguished through pronunciation (inflection and stress) and context. English had a fairly limited vocabulary at that time.

I am very intrigued by Michael's reference to Aldhelm's Riddle 43. I am not knowledgeable about the old riddles (one of many knowledge gaps) and can't find a referential text. I agree fully about the blurred lines between the religions. Moreover it is not easy to discern when enthusiasm for the scribe's own faith took the upper hand and a text was embellished. I'll try to see if I can find out more about this.

A most interesting discussion from the depths of the collective Spherian brain. I am grateful for the interest and added knowledge. Thanks.