Ad pueros sancti Martini: A Critical Edition, English Translation, and Study of the Manuscript Transmission

Abstract

The subject of penance and confession is central in the writings of Alcuin of York (†804), and found in many different literary genres: e.g., liturgical writings, devotional works, letters, and small treatises. The genius of Alcuin, as well as the principal thrust of his work at the court of Charlemagne, lay in pedagogical concerns. Within the school reform, however, we find traces of theological thought, most notably his ideas regarding penance. His overriding interest was pastoral rather than theoretical. He was concerned about the well-being of his pupils and it was for them that he composed his most important treatise on confession and penance, Ad pueros sancti Martini.