Malachy the Irishman, On Poison: A Study and an Edition

The De venenis by Malachias Hibernicus is a portable discussion of vices and virtues, composed around 1280 and adopted the innovative metaphor that sin is a poison removed by various treacles. It uses scientific data about venomous beasts, sins, and antidotes to construct homiletic similitudines, which are applied to vicious and virtuous activities. The book was widely known in the later Middle Ages, and this introduction presents evidence for its circulation and the little that is known of the author. It also examines literary issues, such as the work's genre, compilation of authoritative materials, and early users. The volume concludes with an annotated preliminary text and translation, three indexes, and a third of Malachy's similitudines.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 03 November 2023
Publisher: Liverpool University Press

The De venenis, attributed to Malachias Hibernicus, is a comprehensive and portable discussion of vices and virtues. Originally crafted around 1280 as an aid for Franciscan preachers, it employs an innovative metaphor likening sin to a poison that can be neutralized through various "treacles." The book's argumentative approach involves presenting scientific data about venomous beasts, the sins they commit, and the corresponding antidotes, known as remedial virtues. From these factual observations of natural history, Malachy constructs homiletic similitudines, analogical figures, which he applies to both vicious and virtuous activities, particularly those unique to Ireland.

Despite receiving limited scholarly attention in the past century, Malachy's On Poison was widely known during the later Middle Ages. A lengthy introduction provides evidence for the widespread circulation of his text and the limited knowledge available about the author. It also delves into literary aspects, such as the work's genre, which straddles between a treatise on vices and virtues, a compendium of scientific information, and a handbook for preachers. Malachy's efforts in compiling authoritative materials are explored, as well as a preliminary account of some early users, including William Langland and Robert Holcot. The introduction concludes by examining the formidable challenges involved in editing the text.

The core of the volume consists of an annotated preliminary text and translation, accompanied by an account of early interpolations the text received. The volume concludes with three indexes: one encompassing all biblical citations, another listing all Malachy's other citations, and a third containing his moralized scientific information known as similitudines.

In summary, The De venenis is a valuable resource for scholars and enthusiasts interested in exploring the moral and ethical dimensions of human behavior. Its innovative metaphor, scientific approach, and wide-ranging applications make it a significant contribution to the literature on vices and virtues. Through its meticulous editing and comprehensive presentation, this book provides valuable insights into the moral and theological considerations of the Middle Ages.

Weight: 446g
Dimension: 155 x 234 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781802078930