Medieval Book Reveals Oldest English Poem The University of Oxford's Bodleian Library has made a significant discovery in the realm of medieval literature: an ancient English poem inscribed on vellum within a 12th century manuscript.
This find, housed in the library's dusty tomes section, is being hailed as one of the most important discoveries since the Beowulf Codex.
Dating the Manuscript Dating manuscripts from this era requires a combination of radiocarbon analysis and historical context. Experts employed various techniques to establish a solid chronology for the manuscript.