Subject
Manuscripts, Medieval -- England Books
Best books
Ernest Albert Savage
Old English libraries : $b the making, collection, and use of books during the Middle Ages
"Old English Libraries" by Ernest A. Savage is a historical account published in the early 20th century. It explores the making, collection, and use of books during the Middle Ages, specifically within the context of English libraries and monastic life. The book likely delves into the significance of books in fostering literary culture during this period, highlighting the role of monastic institutions in preserving and promoting knowledge. The opening of the book introduces the importance of books in early Irish monasteries, emphasizing their dual role as tools for spiritual devotion and intellectual pursuit. Savage discusses the historical development of monastic practices that prioritized literary study, detailing figures like St. Patrick and St. Columba as pivotal in this transformation. The text sets the stage for understanding how these early practices laid the groundwork for the emergence of libraries and the culture of book-making in England, alongside the varied influences of monasticism that shaped educational endeavors throughout the Middle Ages.
Frederic William Maitland
Domesday Book and Beyond: Three Essays in the Early History of England
"Domesday Book and Beyond: Three Essays in the Early History of England" by Frederic William Maitland is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The work explores key themes and documents related to early English law and society, particularly focusing on the significance and implications of the Domesday Book—a comprehensive survey commissioned by William the Conqueror in 1085. The opening of the book presents a detailed introduction to the Domesday Book, describing its creation and its purpose as a tax record rather than a comprehensive legal document. Maitland discusses the methods used by royal commissioners to gather data regarding landholdings and the various classes of people that inhabited England during this period. He highlights the complexities of understanding the legal relationships and historical context of the land and its occupants, setting the stage for a deeper examination of feudalism and its societal ramifications in England.
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