I know the chances are slim, but why not give it a shot? The pattern in these initials looks pretty distinct — does it ring a bell for someone? The MS is English, mid or late 12th cent. (now Oxf, AllSouls 36). #medievalsky

Robert of Torigni's manipulation of Henry of Huntingdon's text is probably not only one of the first known but also the most successful example of an historian faking a positive review of their own work. 1/2

I read the description of a MS by W. Stubbs ('The
writing of the chronicle itself is of the fourteenth century,
and is without exception the vilest scrawl of that date
that I have ever seen') and thought that he was far too harsh. But then I took a look on that MS (Bodl. 355) myself. Well...

Sometimes, to seek true knowledge, you have to descend into some really dark and haunted places.

Medieval historical writing can literally lead you anywhere. Last night, a colleague asked for advice with a tricky place in some chronicle, and then I found myself navigating the fascinating world of medieval baking and specifically hostia recipes and wafer irons. Strong Bruges nostalgia vibes!

Among other things, this is the first Mendicant pope since 1769, when a Franciscan Friar Lorenzo Ganganelli was elected as Clement XIV. He is best remembered now for suppressing Jesuits, refuting the blood libel against the Jews and making 14-year-old Mozart a knight of the Order of the Golden Spur.

I’m not saying we’re getting a new Emperor of the Romans, I’m just saying interesting things can happen when there’s a Pope Leo and a King Charles knocking around at the same time.

From now on no political leaders in Rome during Christmas. We don’t want any imperial accidents.

Sometimes, manicule is just not enough.
(BL Cotton MS Caligula A x)

Always wise to visit your hero's home (and resting place) before giving a paper. Though here, I guess, not a stone remains from the days of the ‘good dean’ Ralph de Diceto.

It's great to see that the UK keeps its traditions and allows an extra 30 minutes to enjoy the charms of Luton Airport Parkway due to train delay.

Does anyone have access/ a copy of the following: GWS Barrow, 'The origins and early history of Edinburgh and Glasgow: two Scottish cities contrasted', in Ekonomiczne i pozaekonomiczne czynniki' rozwoju miast (Akademia Ekonomiczna w Krakowie, Kraków, 1986), pp. 5-22

1/9 I'm a bit skeptical about the idea of cursed manuscripts, but if there are any, Valenciennes BM 792 is a strong contender. Judge for yourself:🧵

OK, it is real and totally beautiful. Already read a couple of most stimulating chapters and look forward to enjoying the rest. Many thanks to all other contributors, @mattfirth.bsky.social, series editor @laurajcleaver.bsky.social and @boydellandbrewer.bsky.social

Rewiever 1 is not impressed (actually: Henry of Huntingdon gives his work for correction to Bishop Alexander; initial from Cambridge, St. John’s College MS G.16, 14th century).

Some M.R.James's descriptions aged quite well (Cambridge Corpus Christi College MS 291)

Finally, it feels real. I’m truly honored to be alongside such esteemed scholars. Things like this really motivate keep moving forward, in spite of everything. Many thanks to @mattfirth.bsky.social and everyone else involved.