Foundation myths, whether of nations,
dynasties or cities, have been at the heart of western culture since classical
times. Europe’s archetypal national foundation myth was the subject of Virgil’s
Aeneid. Present in Virgil’s poem are three key elements which appear
repeatedly in western foundation myths: the wanderer/outsider making good; the
foundation prompted by divine prophecy or visions, and the planting, by the ‘chosen
people’ of their new (and often superior) culture in a foreign land. Most medieval
states, cities and dynasties were comparative newcomers, and many sought to
obscure their uncomfortably recent origins in a cloud of myth.
Troy provided the ideal means to do
this. In medieval England, the Trojan myth received perhaps its most elaborate
and fantastical development. The original source for the English tradition was probably
the 9th century Historia Brittonum, (Pseudo-Nennius). This
original story was greatly expanded by Geoffrey of Monmouth who begins his own work
with an account of Brutus, or Brute, Aeneas’s grandson, who is expelled from
Italy with his followers, and wanders the Mediterranean. In a vision, the
goddess Diana tells Brutus that his destiny is to lead the Trojans to an island
in the west, where he shall found a race of kings. Brutus eventually realises
the prophecy, founding Britain, and supplanting its primitive native giants.
Thus, Brutus’s tale exhibits the ‘Virgilian’ topoi of the outsider,
divine intervention and colonisation.
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| Brutus of Troy, represented here as founder of London |
By focussing on foundations of a ‘myth’, certain elements in Wace’s Brut can help understand how Britain emerged. As Carol has mentioned in our lectures, myths are usually told along with traditions, and normally feature gods or superhumans. Wace’s poem undoubtedly featured supernatural creations, such as giants and Sirens, which forced the heroes of the tale (Brutus and his comrades) into memorable combats. There is also no immediate departure from traditions, as retelling this story will also note how the ‘founders’ were once Trojans, therefore their roots stem from their Trojan origins and may evoke patriotic pride amongst the Trojans. By providing an epic tale in the form of a poem, it becomes a story that is easily remembered so that future generations can learn how Britain was named after the heroic Brutus.
ReplyDeleteBy tracing their roots back to Troy, and liking the name of their country to that of its Trojan founder, Wace is relating to his readers what some would call a “distinguished” past. Rome had a similar foundation story staring the Trojan Aeneas, whom, after abandoning Troy at the close of the famous Trojan war, settled Rome (just as Brutus had Britain) and ruled there as monarch. By linking their heritage to Troy, the Britons are also boasting ties of blood to Rome.
ReplyDeleteMythical elements present in the poem also add to the myth; such as the guidance and blessing of a Goddess and the defeat of mythic creatures like Sirens and giants.
The main elements of the myth that make it the perfect foundation myth for Britain, is first the fact that it traces the foundation back to the trojan's this adds prestige to the founders of Britain. The next reason why the poem is the perfect liteature for the foundation of Britain, is because it mentions that the island is "good and fit for life" and that the "soil is good for growing crops" this adds to the idea that the island is worthy of getting to. Another reason is that the poe states that the land is past the pillars of Hercules, this was the extent of the known world in Greek times, and so the trials and hardships that the founders would have had to endure to reach past these markers would make there efforts even more spectacular and so their decendents would be more than common humans. The last aspect that would make it appropriate as the foundation myth is the conflict between the founders and the giants this shows that they rid the land of evil and made it more civilized under their rule
ReplyDeleteWace's "The French Book of Brutus" provides us with the perfect foundation myth for Britain with its explanation of the names relating to each British region.
ReplyDeleteNot only does this give credibility to the tale, it embeds British culture with classical history and etymology.
For example, Corineus being the basis of "Cornwall", and Brutus the basis of "Britain".
By aligning Britain's beginning with Troy and the classical world, Wace attributes the actual "isle" of Britain itself with an almost mystic status, as Matthew says, calling it "good and fit for life". The land then becomes something sacred in itself, and the pacifying of the isle, and of the mythical giants, becomes more heroic for Brutus.
Wace introduces the regular epic poetry elements in his description of Brutus' travels to the land of "soil". For example, the description of the mythical creatures which could cause the hero peril, or the hero himself and his trusty companions.
The story has a number of elements that make it the perfect foundation myth for Britain. First of all it includes a prophecy from a goddess that marks Britain as the rightful land of the Trojans and gives the Britons a religious link to the land. I particularly found the reference to the pillars made by Hercules. I thought that perhaps the fact that the Trojans “sailed right past at running speed” was showing that the Trojans were as mighty as Hercules who possessed god-like qualities. This would make for a good foundation myth as it suggests that Britain was founded by extremely strong people and encourages belief in their future conquests and abilities. The elements that I felt were strong in Wace’s story were the attributes that he was giving the Trojans. The fact that they were strong as discussed above; the fact that they were smart as they were not lured by the Sirens who ‘lure the foolish’ and their courage as depicted by Corineus’ efforts at the battle in France. Finally I felt that pitting the Trojans against giants when they arrived in Britain reinforced the notion that the land was rightfully theirs, making it a perfect foundation myth. The fact that Corineus can beat a giant who had crushed his ribs demonstrates the truth behind the Goddess’ prophecy that the land is divinely ordained to the Trojans (and therefore the Britons) as they can beat any foe to retain their rightful ownership over the land.
ReplyDeleteIn Wace's story of Brutus, there are elements that reveal it as the perfect foundation myth for Britain because it connects with the unique and then contemporary historical aspects of Britain of multiculturalism, invasions and wars. The inclusion of the giants and Gogmagog, the leader of the giants, portrays elements of myth and of Christianity, as Gogmagog is based off one of the giants in the Bible. This inclusive nature of the story coincides with a multi-cultural Britain, full of pagans and Christians, thus applies to a wide contemporary British audience. Another element is that of the goddess Diana and Britain compared to other places, such as places in Africa. This praise of Britain by the goddess and the comparison to other places portray Britain as a haven and explains why it had been and still was at the time so attractive to foreigners. Another elements is that of naming the original and the then current place names of some places in Britian. This portrays the old names, association with the Britons, as pure ad powerful in having been created from the origins of Britain. This is compared to the new names, associated with invaders, which are tainted. This portrays that the Britons will always have a place in Britain even among the invaders as the true original owners of Britain and gives the Britons a sense of hope that they have power and purity even when they had lost the war against the Anglo-Saxons and then later against the Normans. These are just some of the elements of the story of Brutus that reveal it as the perfect foundation myth from Britain however they show that it was perfect for Britain because it connects with the unique and then contemporary historical aspects of Britain of multiculturalism, invasions and wars.
ReplyDeleteWace's poem of Brutus provided a perfect foundation myth for Britain because it linked the land with that of ancient Troy, had mythical creatures that had to be overcome by the Trojans, and backed Brutus' journey with religion. By claiming the founder of Britain and his men as Trojans, Wace's poem gives them prestige and patriotism. These Trojans, who were able to resist the song of the Sirens and sail past the pillars that were made by the mighty, god-like Hercules at "running speed" indicates that they were tough men who were able to accomplish great feats. It gives them superhuman or god-like qualities – what all good heroes in myths should have! But wait! There's more! Not only do Brutus and his men have superior song-blocking abilities and speed, they are also mighty warriors who were able to defeat the giants that inhabited the island of Albion. Remarkably, Corineus (who had just previously had his ribs crushed by the leader of the giants) manages to lift the giant and throw him over the edge of a cliff! These Trojans were clearly remarkable and prestigious. Perfect for the founding people of Britain. To top the story off, Brutus' journey was backed by the goddess Diana, who tells Brutus that they will build a new Troy on this island that is "good and fit for life". Wace's poem was the perfect foundation myth for Britain because it was extravagant and provided the people with strong, superhuman and patriotic ancestors whose actions (however brutal or atrocious) were divinely sanctioned.
ReplyDeleteSeveral features of Wace’s Brut make it an ideal foundation myth – firstly, the extensive supernatural elements. The existence of the prophecy, for one, and the detailed descriptions of the fearsome sirens, add a paranormal element to the tale, giving it the mystical, enduring quality of an epic myth. Furthermore, the notion that Britain was fated to be the future home of the Trojans due to the prophecy creates a certain link between the land and the Briton through the illusion of predestination – as though the Britons were preordained to seize the land. Wace’s Brut continues to produce all the necessary ingredients of a fine myth, through the skirmishes between the Trojans and the giants. Despite the strength, power and immensity of the giants – it is stated that they were “great in size”, “much bigger than other folks” and were “strong and large” – and the injuries sustained by Corineus in his encounter with the giant, Wace still allows Corineus to prevail, creating an almost biblical David-and-Goliath style sense of victory on the part of the Trojans. This in turn lends to the effectiveness of the tale as a foundation myth.
ReplyDeleteWace's poem Brut provides several features to make an an ideal foundation myth. The appearance of the Goddess, both mystical and religious, and her being the one to tell of the prophecy already gives the poem and epic feel and a perfect foundation for myth. The supernatural element also provides the myth foundation as the trojans encounter sirens and giants and also something for the hero - Corineus - to survive great battles for example against the giants.
ReplyDeleteElements of Wace's poem that make it a perfect foundation myth for Britain include a divine prophecy, fantastical creatures, an heroic leader, and ties to the ancients. The naming of Britain after the Trojan Brutus indicates how the settlers made the land their own, and by naming it after one of themselves brought it into their possession. This also connects the Britons to a much longer, ancient history (itself very mystical) of the Trojan kingdom. The divine prophecy gives the myth a supernatural element, and also makes the fulfillment of the prophecy feel like a divine obligation. As with any good myth, creatures that seem "otherworldy" add to the mysticism and sense of adventure.
ReplyDeleteThe Brutus myth of Britain’s origins is ideal, because it combines elements of a classical heritage, divine sanction, a perilous journey that is successfully undertaken by the land’s founders, , along with contemporary events, relevant to Britain in the 12th century.
ReplyDeleteThe myth presents the Britons as being thee descendants of a noble and brave race, who undertook a great and perilous journey, but overcame all dangers that they came up against. The linking of the Britons with the Trojans connects them with events in classical antiquity, and also links them with the Romans, who themselves claimed to be descendants of the Trojans. The reference to the Roman goddess Diana, also nicely adds to the classical heritage, as well as giving Britain a divine sanction – they were ‘destined’ to come to Britain, and they have divine favour.
The danger of the trials also increases as the myth goes on. First of all, they are attacked by pirates on their journey. Then they have to face the dangerous temptations of the Sirens, but were self-disciplined enough to “guard themsel[ves]” not “to listen” to their singing. Upon reaching France, they soon get embroiled in a war with the King of Poitou, which is hard fought until Corineus wins the day. Having defeated the Poitevians, they then have to face the entirety of the might of France, and despite much bitter fighting are again victorious. Finally they have to face and defeat the giants that currently inhabited Britain, who were “great in size” and “much bigger than other folks.” This gradual escalation of their dangers portrays the Trojans as being able to rise to every new and more difficult challenge.
Particular focus is placed upon their exploits in France and nearly 300 lines of the chapter, about a quarter of the myth, are given over to describing them. The portrayal of “British” superiority over the entire might of France since antiquity would go down well in a 12th century context where there was much rivalry between the Kings of England and the Kings of France.
Also, despite Brutus being the divinely chosen leader, it is surprising that Wace’s account of the myth seems to extoll Corineus, and thus the Cornish, again and again, even more so than Brutus. Corineus is depicted in a far more active role than that of Brutus; he is the one who boldly responds to the arrogant Humbert, he is the one who brought about the initial Trojan victory over the Poitevins, he resisted the charge of 300 knights all at once, he was the one who killed the great giant Gogmagog. Perhaps this may be a reference to how the Britons of Cornwall and Wales put up a much stouter and effective defence against the Saxons than the rest of the Britons did?
The story of Brutus from Wace’s Brut has a number of elements that mark it as the perfect foundation myth from Britain. Some of these include the Trojan warriors, the ‘divine’ mandate from the goddess, and the large number of successful adventures undertaken by the characters on their journey to the island. This consequently provides the people with a connection to a significant ‘historical’ event, which lends the myth credibility as it draws on ancient sources. The characters also contribute to making the myth perfect as a foundation myth as they evoke the idea of the Homeric Hero, in that they undertake great deeds and face supernatural foes, such Brutus’ fight against the giant “Gogmagog”. Further, Brut is suggestive of Homer’s Odyssey, in that it tells the story of a Hero (Brutus) who undertakes a perilous journey, facing significant obstacles in the process. By doing so, and by including the elements that it does, Brut acts as a perfect foundation myth because it provides a distinguished history for the people and connects them with the ancient past.
ReplyDeleteWace’s Brutus is the perfect foundation myth for Britain because it contains the requisite elements of all Western foundation myths outlined above: the exiled wanderer who through divine intervention leads his people to their chosen land. Wace provides Britain with an appropriate history: a Classical and Biblical lineage with time-immemorial etymological ties to the land formerly known as Albion. I think maybe the Ark of the Covenant and its Tabernacle is the foundation for his memoria scheme, which he then links with the Trojan tale of Brutus to connect Britain explicitly to the exile/new-found-land narrative. For example, the excerpt’s outset is portentous, Brutus’ predicament is likened to the Israelites’ forty-years wandering in the desert, his dozen elders may represent the twelve stones used to commemorate where the priests had stood with the Ark on the River Jordan when via God’s will it parted thus allowing the people to cross unharmed to the Promised Land. (Brutus and his fleet enjoy fortuitous sea-breezes which eventually guide them all the way to Dartmouth). Via word association – specifically “altar/s” – Wace introduces the Ark’s capture by the Philistines in the time of Eli referenced at the excerpt’s end, for “altar/s” is used thrice and only ever in connection with Diane and the Philistines in keeping with Britain’s ideal Classical/Biblical heritage. He further utilises the Ark narrative – specifically the Battle of Jericho when the Ark of the Covenant was carried by seven priests blowing seven rams’ horns for seven days around the city’s walls after which Jericho was taken – Wace has Brutus encircle Diane’s altar nine times (after praying nine times and kissing the altar nine times) which precursors the episode where Brutus and Corineus encamp by the sea for seven days to survey Goffars’ land which they then capture. (9x9x9=729 which could be 7:2+9 = 7:11, pretty close to Jeremiah 7:12 which details the ark being carried into battle during the time of Eli enabling Hebrew victory, or in Wace’s case the Trojans? Perhaps support for this reading is the Cornieus/Suharz episode in the woods: “and four and four, and three and three” (7) if considered with the numerous references to twelve (Goffars’ twelve peers, twelve divisions, twelve kings) = Jeremiah 7:12?) (L.H. side of pg.30)
ReplyDeleteAt any rate, Wace draws on familiar Biblical imagery and applies it to the Trojan tale of Brutus, the most obvious being the predatory wolf devouring God’s lamb/sheep. This is interesting because he manages to keep Brutus distinct from Corineus thereby maintaining Norman allegiance whilst extolling Brutus. Corineus is identified as the wolf (albeit transformed into a majestic lion) to the Breton? herd in the Cornieus/Suharz wood escapade detailed prior. Wace maintains the Corieus/Brutus distinction elsewhere, e.g. it is Corineus who defies King Goffars’ edicts re: hunting in the woods, Corineus who later slaughers Frenchmen at Tours albeit to avenge Brutus’ nephew (thereby leaving Britain’s indelible mark on the Continent), it is only once revenge has been secured that Brutus conveniently instigates the Trojans’ departure from France for Dartmouth. (Geoff of Monmouth by contrast attributes Brutus’ departure to concern for dwindling soldiers in the face of a fortified enemy). Hence Wace can concurrently promote Brutusian and Norman loyalties by attributing Corineus as the cause of all French suffering and offence leaving Brutus Britain’s namesake unsullied.
As it is the nature of myth to need only present itself rather than prove itself, Wace’s account of the founding of Britain is powerful due to its adoption of numerous mythic archetypes, and of the style in which they are presented.
ReplyDeleteThat familiarity of types and concept, littered with the expression of other received (and accepted) myths such as the Trojan founding of Rome, therefore have the seeming of truths already ‘known’.
Perhaps it is most important to recognise that filling the knowledge gap and answering questions like “why are we called Britain?” or “why is this Cornwall?” and “who are we as a people? Do we have a destiny?” is fundamentally preferable for a great many people than hearing “well, we just don’t know.” The best lies (sorry 'myths') are those that consist mostly of truth. But for many people in the twelfth century isles even just a little truth probably sufficed.
If someone told *me* I had a great and noble ancestry of adventurous warrior-kings the bigger part of me would probably want to believe it in just the same way.
Foundation myths are important to the creation of national identities, as it in a way justifies that nation’s claim to land, as well as demonstrates their ancient and impressive heritage. This can be seen in Wace’s Brut, the foundation myth for Britain.
ReplyDeleteThe first element that makes Brut a perfect foundation myth is that it links the British people to the mighty and noble people of Troy, a notable legacy to have.
Wace also includes a divine aspect in his poem, telling that it was a Goddess (Diane) who told Brutus that he would reign over the land ‘Albion’. By including the goddess, it lends itself to the mythical side of the foundation story; in addition to it seeming like it was Brutus’s destiny to rule over Britain but most importantly, the Gods gave him ownership over Britain.
The description of how the names changed over time, the etymology of each place and how they are all originally derived from Brutus and the Trojans, reinforces the connection of Britain to these honourable and ancient people, making it a perfect foundation myth for Britain.
It does not take long for Wace's poem to exhibit signs of foundation myths. Brutus is confronted with a vision of a place 'faraway in the sea', and as the original post outlined, shows Brutus and his chosen followers making their journey. But aside from having these three elements, how can we distinguish this myth as the 'perfect' foundation myth? Yelei's post provides one fascinating view on this subject, outlining that by linking to both well known myths and legends Wace can promote and gain different loyalties. By incorporating the Trojan myth, Wace brings forth all the qualities associated with Trojan warriors, such as their heroics ect. The idea of the 'wanderer' is accentuated by the continual naming of familiar places in which Brutus and his men travel to, such as Africa, Spain, Brittany ect. By using these well known places it added credibility to the myth. Finally, there is the element of hardship and adventure - perhaps it is these elements that make a good story that also make a good myth.
ReplyDeleteWace's Le Roman de Brut or "The French Book of Brutus" is the perfact foundation myth because it gives a certain legitimacy to aspects of British culture that emerged during the Medieval Period. Classical myths were often founded in creating explainations for natural phenomenon and i believe that the story of Brutas can alsmost be applied in the same way. The island which would become Britain was revieled to Brutas by the goddess Diane, providing England with a divine origin. Instilling an importance or spiritual superiority that the mere discovery of a place can not provide...hence legitimacy. Wace's account also tells of a great battle between the Trojans (British) and the French in which the Trojans were the victors, lending to the great and long stading fued between the British and French which stretched on for generations. Near the conclusion of the poem Brutas and Corineus lead their army in pursuit of the Giants occupying Britain, with Corineus epically defeating Gogmagog the biggest of them all. Metephorically this parallels the Britons defeat of the Saxons, (perhaps under King Arthur) just one example of a battle wherein the British, sometimes against odds but almost alwasy with divine help, emerge victorious.
ReplyDelete