A Study of one of the Pearl Poet’s Poems: The Sin and Salvation of “Cleanness”

“Cleanness” is one of the four/five poems attributed to the enigmatic “Pearl Poet.” While often overshadowed by its more famous companion, “Sir Gawain and the Green Knight,” “Cleanness” offers a unique and insightful exploration of virtue, sin, and divine judgment.

Sir Gawain and the Green Knight (from original manuscript, artist unknown).

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The Pearl Poet, the author of “Cleanness,” is believed to have lived in the North Shropshire/Cheshire/Staffordshire dialect region. One of the most commonly suggested candidates for authorship is John Massey of Cotton, Cheshire.

Despite the limited information available, the Pearl Poet’s personality and background can be inferred from their work. As J.R.R. Tolkien and E.V. Gordon noted in 1925, the poet was a devout, serious individual with a keen interest in theology. While not a professional theologian, they had a solid understanding of the subject. Additionally, the poet had a command of Latin and French, and was well-read in both romantic and instructive French literature. Their deep connection to the West Midlands of England is evident in their writing, reflected in their language, meter, and descriptions of the landscape.

At Soulton there are fields named “Massey’s Rough” and “Massey Barn” near Soulton Brook and the River Roden, which predate the 1500s. These geographical references amy suggest a potential link between the poet and the local area.

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The alliterative poem consideres the themes of sin, virtue, and divine judgment. The poem’s narrative structure is built around a series of biblical exempla, or stories, that illustrate its central themes.

The text begins by introducing the theme of cleanliness and purity, contrasting it with filth. It emphasizes that God hates filth and banishes those who are not properly dressed. The Parable of the Great Banquet is then used to illustrate why hearers should give attention to cleanliness, highlighting the importance of proper attire and preparation for a divine feast.

Following this, the poem explores God’s forgiveness and wrath through examples like the Fall of the Angels, the Fall of Adam and Eve, and the story of Noah. The poem transitions to a discussion of God’s reaction to sin.

The second exemplum recounts the stories of Abraham and Lot, focusing on the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. The poem includes a description of the Dead Sea and emphasizes God’s vengeful nature. The narrator then explains the symbolism of the second exemplum and reinforces God’s vengeful nature.

Rembrandt, Belsazar

The third and longest exemplum recounts the conquest of Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar and the subsequent feast of Belshazzar. The poem highlights the consequences of Belshazzar’s sinful actions and God’s judgment.

“Cleanness” looks at other themes. It explores the concept of divine justice, the consequences of human sin, and the importance of repentance and redemption. The poem also provides vivid descriptions of the natural world, from the raging floodwaters to the post-diluvian landscape.

While “Cleanness” may not be as widely known as its more famous companion, it offers a valuable glimpse into the world of Middle English literature and the religious beliefs of its time. Its exploration of themes that remain relevant today makes it a worthwhile read for anyone interested in medieval poetry or Christian theology.