The Bible of the Poor: A Facsimile and Edition of the British Library Blockbook C.9 d.2

This first inexpensive edition of The Bible of the Poor reprints a copy of a blockbook in the British Library.  Popular from the twelfth to the fifteenth century, The Bible of the Poor was a manual used by friars to instruct the common folk in the fundamentals of the faith.  The 40-leaf book presents 120 pictures interrelating the Old and New Testaments, pertinent verses from Scripture, and interpretations by the anonymous compiler.  The text is in Latin, but transcriptions and translations into English are provided; a detailed commentary highlights the medieval method of interpreting Scripture.

As a handbook of biblical illustration and interpretation, The Bible of the Poor is an invaluable resource in studying the various forms of religious art and literature, including illuminated manuscripts, painting, sculptures, stained glass, medieval drama and devotional poetry. It is also a handbook for meditation and spirituality.

ALBERT C. LABRIOLA was a professor of English and Distinguished University Professor at Duquesne University and secretary of the Milton Society of America.  He was also the general editor of the Medieval & Renaissance Literary Studies book series.  He was named the Honored Scholar of the Milton Society of America for 2000. JOHN W. SMELTZ was a research associate in English at Duquesne University.  Dr. Smeltz specialized in Middle English language and literature, manuscript study, and paleography.