Description
Book SynopsisThis first published edition of the Latin cartulary of Godstow Abbey outside Oxford is an important text for the history of medieval religious women. Compiled in the early fifteenth century, and probably written by Godstow''s prioress Alice of Eaton, it contains more than 900 documents written for and preserved by this well-known community of Benedictine nuns.The contents include a unique Anglo-Norman verse life of Ediva of Winchester, whose dreams prompted her to found the abbey in the early twelfth century. Numerous early charters in the cartulary identify other twelfth-century nuns and their relatives, and shed light on the founding of the abbey, its royal and private patronage, and its extensive real estate holdings. Other documents in the volume are excellent sources for women''s literacy and culture, religious practices in the diocese of Lincoln, social relations between the nuns and the larger community, and the local urban and rural economy in Oxfordshire and nearby counties.Th
Trade ReviewThe Latin cartulary is an important source for the history of medieval Oxford ... a fine achievement. This is a distinguished addition to an important series. * Edmund King, History *
The indexes provide a particularly full and helpful guide not only to persons and places but also to subjects. This is work of high quality which will not need to be done again. * J.R. Maddicott, English Historical Review *
I can say with some confidence that this volume will supplant the earlier EETS edition as the principal source of reference for Godstow abbey's estate in the country. * Mark Page, Oxoniensia *
Table of ContentsIntroduction ; The Manuscript ; The Contents of the Cartulary ; The Foundation of the Abbey ; The Foundation Legend Text ; Patronage and Benefactions ; Financial and Property Management ; Abbesses of Godstow ; Editorial Method ; TEXT ; Appendix A: Flyleaves ; Appendix B: Strays ; Appendix C: English Register Documents
