Oral-Formulaic Theory: Annotated Bibliography

Ruth H. Webber. "Formulaic Language in the Mocedades de Rodrigo." Hispanic Review, 48:195-211.

Conducts a formulaic analysis to determine not only density, but also the extent to which formulas comprise a coherent traditional system within the poem. Finds much evidence of modification of traditional formulas throughout the poem, a fact that supports the theory of interpolations in an original text. Supports Armistead's (1978) and Deyermond's (1978) contentions that the Mocedades derives ultimately from a lost cantar de gesta which was reworked by a learned poet and composed to be read.
Area: HI