Sixteenth-Century Readers, Fifteenth-Century Books: Continuities of Reading in the English Reformation

This innovative study investigates the reception of medieval manuscripts over a long century,1470–1585,spanning the reigns of Edward IV to Elizabeth I. Members of the Tudor gentry family who owned these manuscripts had properties in Willesden and professional affiliations in London. Through detailed research,Margaret Connolly reveals the various uses of these old books as a repository for family records, a place to preserve other texts, a source of practical information, and a professional manual for the practising lawyer.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 332 pages
Publication date: 23 June 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

This groundbreaking study delves into the enduring reception of medieval manuscripts across a remarkable century, spanning from 1470 to 1585. During this period, the reigns of Edward IV to Elizabeth I witnessed the ownership of these manuscripts by members of the Tudor gentry family, who held properties in Willesden and maintained professional connections in London. These individuals left distinctive marks on the leaves of their books, thereby reconstructing their active engagement with the textual content. Through meticulous research, Margaret Connolly unveils the diverse purposes of these ancient volumes: serving as repositories for family records, safeguarding other cherished texts, providing practical knowledge for household needs, and serving as a professional manual for practicing lawyers.

The investigation of these family-owned books unveils an intriguing fascination with historical works, highlighting the enduring intellectual and domestic significance of medieval manuscripts in an era of print. This study sheds light on the multifaceted roles that these manuscripts played in shaping the lives and practices of individuals during the late medieval period, contributing to our understanding of the cultural and intellectual landscape of the time.

ISBN-13: 9781108445528