This blog is written and maintained by members of the Department of Anglo-Saxon, Norse & Celtic, University of Cambridge. We study the history, languages, literatures and material culture of medieval Britain, Ireland and Scandinavia.
For more information about us go to: http://www.asnc.cam.ac.uk
With Apologies to Lydia *
ReplyDeleteAethelflaed O Aethelflaed, she’s what those Anglo-Saxons need
Aethelflaed the Mercian Lady.
She fought Vikings to submission
And some grant her erudition.
Athelflaed O Aethelflaed whom no one ever called unread
She burrowed in Chester and Worcester.
Alf’s daughter and Eddy’s sole sister.
No Viking could ever resist her.
Tamworth Totty Aethelflaeda.
Aethelflaed O Aethelflaed, say have you met Aethelflaed
Aethelflaed the Mercian Lady?
If your nation lacks a leader
Send a scop to Aethelfleada.
The Mercian lady of whom we’re all fond.
The belle of the burghs on this side of the pond.
She can’t put a Foot wrong bringing forth Engellond
Athelflaed the Mercian Lady.
Aethelflaed, O Aethelflaed, say have you met Aethelflaed
Aethelflaed the Mercian Lady?
Though she’s just a page for Stenton
She now gets much more attention.
Aethelflaed O Aethelflaed, bring out the hogs bring out the meed.
Aethelflaed the Mercian Lady.
She’s the killjoy at your party
Reading De Virginitate.
The Chronicler tries to sort out where she’s been.
In Runcorn, in Warwick, in Derby she’s seen.
They who played find the lady play God save the Queen.
Aethelflaed the Mercian Lady.
* http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n4zRe_wvJw8