Nigel of Longchamp, Speculum Stultorum

The Speculum Stultorum is a Latin beast epic written by a monk of Christ Church, Canterbury, in the late 12th century. It was a popular work of the Middle Ages, copied for over three centuries, and was a rich source of information about contemporary life and events at Canterbury. The work is dedicated to William Longchamp, Richard I's chancellor, and satirises the distorted values of contemporary religious life and the corruption of the papal curia.

Format: Hardback
Length: 656 pages
Publication date: 15 June 2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press

The Speculum Stultorum, also known as The Mirror for Fools, is a remarkable Latin beast epic penned by a monk of Christ Church, Canterbury, towards the end of the twelfth century. This extraordinary work enjoyed immense popularity during the Middle Ages, becoming a cherished masterpiece of Chaucer, Gower, and Henryson. Its influence extended far beyond the boundaries of England, captivating readers in Eastern Europe as well. Beyond its status as a pivotal milestone in the history of medieval beast epics, The Speculum Stultorum offers a wealth of valuable insights into the contemporary life and events of Canterbury. The dedication of the work to William Longchamp, who served as Richard I's chancellor, highlights the significance of this connection.

The narrative revolves around a donkey named Don Quixote, who possesses a deep desire for a longer tail. Driven by this longing, Don Quixote embarks on a journey to Salerno, where he hopes to acquire (imaginary) medicines that can fulfill his wish. However, fate intervenes with a twist, as his medicines are accidentally destroyed in an accident. Undeterred, Don Quixote decides to pursue a different path and sets off to study at the renowned university of Paris for seven years. Despite his extensive education, he is unable to speak anything other than "heehaw" upon his return.

Interwoven within the simple storyline of Don Quixote's quest for a longer tail are various other stories and lengthy rhetorical set-pieces that serve as satirical critiques of the distorted values of contemporary religious life and the corruption within the papal curia. These passages offer a poignant reflection on the societal and religious conditions of the time. Additionally, the work portrays the qualities of an ideal bishop, a role that Don Quixote aspires to fulfill. Through his adventures and experiences, Don Quixote emerges as a flawed yet relatable character, whose journey serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of pursuing unrealistic goals and the importance of embracing one's true nature.

The Speculum Stultorum is a testament to the enduring power of literature and its ability to transcend time and cultural boundaries. Its rich content, humor, and social commentary continue to captivate readers, making it a timeless masterpiece that remains relevant to this day.

Weight: 928g
Dimension: 147 x 223 x 44 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780192857712