War and the 'agony of conscience' in Ælfric's writings

Ælfric's views on warfare and violence have attracted much scholarly attention, giving rise to opposing interpretations of his intended purpose: to some a glorification of war and to others a call to pacifism. Far less has been written, however, on a more controversial issue within this general subject matter: the sinfulness of homicide committed by soldiers in a public war waged with a just cause, and the consequent need for them to atone. This article aims to throw light on this neglected aspect of Ælfric's writings, and argues that his eloquent silence on this ethical dilemma downplays the sense of guilt experienced by warriors who shed blood at the command of a superior. While the clergy's participation in physical combat is incompatible with Christ's teachings, secular soldiers must fight enemies to defend their country: in fact, for this order of society, waging war is not simply lawful, it is a duty, and has the support of God. That no reference to the sinfulness of bloodshedding should be present in Ælfric's hagiographical narratives is therefore crucial, for it probably contributes to remove the 'agony of conscience' suffered by those Christian soldiers who are reluctant to stain their hands with human blood, and thus reinforces the principle that killing in a just war to repel an enemy attack is not an obstacle to salvation.