After over four centuries of neglect and disregard, Anglo-Saxon language, lore, and literature saw a renaissance in the 16th century. This is usually associated with the Reformation, and more specifically with the dissolution of the monasteries through which a number of Anglo-Saxon manuscripts from the monastic libraries came into the hands of interested antiquarians bent on preserving ancient knowledge and art.

New College Library, Oxford, NB.187.17

New College Library and Archives, Oxford