Oral-Formulaic Theory: Annotated Bibliography

Alan D. Deyermond. "Structural and Stylistic Patterns in the Cantar de Mio Cid." In Medieval Stud ies in Honor of Robert White Linker. Ed. Brian Dutton, J. Woodrow Hassell, Jr., and John E. Keller. Madrid: Editorial Castalia. pp. 55-71.

Considers (1) comparison and contrast of narrative situations, (2) epic epithets, (3) verbal oppositions a nd identifications, (4) other linguistic and stylistic forms of gradation and contrast, and (5) symbols, drawing the conclusion that the poet's use of these patterns is too sophisticated for the Cid to be an actual oral composition. Feels this demonstrat ion strengthens the case for unity of authorship and written composition, although it does not affect suppositions of oral diffusion or even an original oral dictated text, both of which he takes as proven. Recommends a critical approach suitable to the style as described.
Area: HI