Classic and Contemporary Poets

Robert Mannyng, also known as Robert de Brunne, was an English poet and chronicler of the 13th and early 14th centuries, born around 1264 and believed to have died after 1338. He is best known for his two major works, "Handlyng Synne" and "The Story of England," which are significant for their use of the English language at a time when Latin and French were the dominant literary languages in England.

Mannyng was originally from Brunne (now Bourne) in Lincolnshire and later became a Gilbertine canon at the priory of Sempringham, Lincolnshire. His work reflects his religious and didactic interests, as well as his commitment to making literature accessible to a wider audience by writing in English.

"Handlyng Synne," written around 1303, is a collection of moral and religious poems based on the "Manuel des Pechiez," a French confession manual by William of Waddington. Mannyng's work is notable for its vivid depiction of everyday life in medieval England and its straightforward moral and religious instruction. "Handlyng Synne" consists of a series of tales illustrating various sins and their consequences, making it an important source for the study of medieval English society and culture.

"The Story of England," completed around 1338, is a chronicle of English history from the legendary founding of Britain to the reign of Edward I. This work is significant for its use of English and its attempt to provide a comprehensive history of England for those who did not have access to or could not read Latin sources. While Mannyng's chronicle relies heavily on earlier sources, his contribution lies in his compilation and adaptation of these materials into an English vernacular form.

Mannyng's work is characterized by its straightforward style, its use of rhymed couplets, and its incorporation of colloquial language. He aimed to make his writings both instructive and entertaining, ensuring they were accessible to a non-clerical audience. By doing so, he contributed to the development of Middle English as a literary language and provided insight into the linguistic, social, and cultural environment of his time.

In conclusion, Robert Mannyng was a significant figure in the history of English literature, known for his contributions to the development of Middle English prose and poetry. His works "Handlyng Synne" and "The Story of England" are valuable not only for their literary qualities but also for their portrayal of medieval life and their role in making literature accessible to a wider English-speaking audience. Mannyng's writings offer a unique window into the language, society, and culture of medieval England.

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