Discusses the development of the "Dictionary of Old English," a database of approximately three million running words. Examines how technological advancements have changed the design process since it began in 1970, stating that error checking and protection of the database against accidental intrusion have remained as key issues. (GEA)

Contends that computer-aided literature studies have failed to impact the field as a whole. Asserts that new databases, such as TLG or ARTFL, allow wide-spectrum analyses that may transform the way in which literature is studied. (CFR)

Asserts that humanities computing techniques and methodologies remain marginal to mainstream literary scholarship. Argues for large scale analyses of text databases that would incorporate a shift in theoretical orientation to include greater stress on intertextuality and sign theory. (CFR)