Interlinear Glosses

work by Anselm of Laon

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June 29, 2026

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Anselm of Laon, an influential theologian in early Scholasticism, authored the Interlinear Glosses. This significant work is a commentary on the entire Vulgate Bible. The term "interlinear" refers to something inserted between written lines or printed in alternate lines of different languages or texts. Anselm's Interlinear Glosses became a leading medieval authority on biblical interpretation and heavily influenced the Glossa Ordinaria, a compilation of views from prominent Church fathers and teachers. His school at Laon was renowned, attracting students like Peter Abelard.123

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Anselm Of Laon
Anselm’s principal work was Interlinear Glosses, a commentary on the entire Vulgate Bible; it became a leading medieval authority. Some of his scriptural commentaries were ascribed to other writers, notably St. Anselm. His known works were published by J.-P. Migne in Patrologia Latina (vol. 162).
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Anselm’s principal work was Interlinear Glosses, a commentary on the entire Vulgate Bible; it became a leading medieval authority. Some of his scriptural commentaries were ascribed to other writers, notably St. Anselm. His known works were published by J.-P. Migne in Patrologia Latina (vol. 162).
Read More