Description
Book SynopsisGervase of Tilbury's Otia Imperialia was written in the early thirteenth century for his patron, the Holy Roman Emperor Otto IV. This is the first English translation of this major medieval text which is both learned and entertaining, full of scientific and theological speculation and a wealth of accounts of folklore and popular belief.
Trade Reviewa massive work of fine scholarship * A. D. Carr, Folk Life *
S.E. Banks and J.W. Binns, with their bilingual edition, broad introduction, and excellent commentary, have fulfilled a demand long put forward in scholarship. This new edition does justice to Gervais of Tilbury, one of the intellectuals who was most well-read, versatile and open to the world at the turn of the twelfth century; without a doubt it will facilitate further research on this unusual personality and his very interesting work. ... eminently readable ... As a guide to the world view of an educated and well-travelled man of affairs at the beginning of the thirteenth century, this is a fascinating piece ... Whether it cheered up the Emperor Otto is not recorded, but it should certainly prove highly entertaining for any modern medievalist. * Medium Aevum *
Not only have the editors provided a wholly readable translation, but also the annotation is extremely full and helpful, including a wide-ranging modern bibliography. * English Historical Review *
Post-Classical Latin is now the great lost literature of Europe. Editions like this one bring it back to life. * Tom Shippey, Times Literary Supplement *
... a complete and reliable text and translation. * Tom Shippey, Times Literary Supplement *
Table of ContentsIntroduction ; List of Sigla ; Text and Translation ; Appendices ; Indexes
