Books in Manuscript : A Short Introduction to Their Study and Use (Classic Reprint)

Discover the world of medieval writing and the art of manuscript study.

This concise introduction explains how manuscripts are read, used, and understood, offering practical guidance for collectors, students, and curious readers alike. With clear explanations and accessible examples, it shows how these unique records reveal both content and the hand that created them.

In this edition, you’ll find an accessible path through the history of writing, the craft of scribes, and the role of illuminations, with a focus on how to approach, handle, and catalog these precious objects. It’s designed for readers who want a solid grounding before diving into deeper palaeography and textual study.

• Plain explanations of manuscript materials, formats, and writing styles
• Guidance on handling, dating, and interpreting illuminations
• Introduction to key libraries, famous manuscripts, and cataloging basics
• Illustrative plates to connect theory with visual examples

Ideal for readers of history, literature, and book history who want a practical, readable entry into the study of manuscripts.

Ideal for readers of history, literature, and book history who want a practical, readable entry into the study of manuscripts.