Machines of the Mind

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Exploring medieval authors' use of personification, this work reveals how they engaged with ancient philosophical paradigms in ways modern critics often overlook. Breen identifies three types of personification—Platonic, Aristotelian, and Prudentian—demonstrating a nuanced literary landscape that transcends contemporary dichotomies. Through fresh interpretations of key texts, she illustrates how medieval writers crafted characters with depth and subtlety, akin to using diverse tools for specific tasks. This study appeals to scholars of medieval literature, philosophy, and character dynamics.