Phil is so unclear about everything......I am not really sure what he is trying to prove or disprove??
I can only assume he wants to prove that Chanties (by whatever spelling you prefer) - existed BEFORE 1830...but in doing so - he fills the pages of this "Blog" with Latin and Greek texts - which (I Think) nobody else can refute!
If he were to Simply say "Chanties" existed way before 1830.....he has to back that up with facts that everyone can understand...not make assumptions from "his" reading of long forgotten language and outdated texts.
Similarly.....It is widely accepted that Sung Shanties were NOT Performed on British Naval Ships, but that instruments were used instead! If he wishes to still call these "Chanties" - then that is an opinion that is not shared by most, if not all, the others who read these texts...

Whatever is your reason to be here reading this is personal - and Phil's views are also personal - that is obvious.....but please explain Why you are writing this - In plain English Please!!!
I also know - that whatever you say, it will NOT stop me singing these "songs" and I hope that others enjoys them as much as me....no matter why they feel the way they do....

Tim Radford (Who is more than silently pissed off at academic bullshit! Particularly when it is not necessary.) Yes - I did re-read this before posting..and still did!