FROM PHYSICAL RADIENCE TO MORAL PURITY: THE DIACHRONIC EVOLUTION OF THE ‘LIGHT’ AXIOLOGICAL FRAME (FROM PIE TO OLD ENGLISH)

From Physical Radience To Moral Purity: The Diachronic Evolution Of The ‘Light’ Axiological Frame (From PIE To Old English) This study explores the evolutionary trajectory of the axiological frame ‘Light’ from its Proto-Indo-European (PIE) roots to its conceptualization in Old English homiletic prose. Using a diachronic approach, the research traces the semantic shift of the PIE root *leuk-, which originally denoted physical brightness and celestial phenomena, as it transitioned into the Germanic heroic and subsequently, Christian ethical systems. The analysis reveals a two-stage recalibration of the frame. In the heroic period, light was primarily associated with martial prestige, social status, and the luster of physical wealth (glittering of gold and weaponry). However, with the onset of Christianization, specifically in the works of Ælfric of Eynsham, the frame underwent a profound metaphorical mapping. The physical attribute of ‘brightness’ was reoriented toward the vertical axis of virtue, representing spiritual purity and divine wisdom. By examining these axiological gradients, the study demonstrates, how the linguistic scaling of light served as a didactic tool to prioritize intangible spiritual values over the ephemeral physical world.