Runsko pismo i njegovi oblici u staroengleskim i srednjoengleskim tekstovima

The aim of this work is, primarily, to introduce and describe the topic of the runes as found in the development of the English language. A true value of the runes lies actually in some of the preserved texts which were vastly created during the Old and Middle English period. According to historical evidence, the runes were used by various people since prehistoric times, but the traces were probably lost. The early inscriptions chiselled into the stone or wood were the results of extraordinary master work. Marvellous ornaments, animal images and prolific decorations, were just a few of significant characteristics, which made rune stones look tremendous and unique. One needed to be very skilful and of capable hand in order to make tiny and precise movements in order to carve a message, a magical charm, spell, or just a mere text, that served for individual purpose. The pagan tribes associated the runes with something magnificent and divine. The runic symbols are the representatives of the metaphoric interpretations, as was seen in the old Germanic mythology. This explains perfectly the mighty world of pagan gods and numerous other mystical creatures. It is important to say that the knowledge about the Old and Middle English period is in close relationship to the understanding of the runic system, because certain characteristics from an overall historical flow influenced the development of the runic signs