The Middle Ages were a period of significant innovation that revolutionized the production, content, and preservation of written works. Key innovations during this time included the introduction of papermaking to Europe, initially from the Islamic world, which gradually replaced the use of parchment and vellum. This shift in materials is illustrated in the materials on display. The durable yet receptive surface of the 10th century vellum fragment from Priscian’s Institutes, a widely used grammatical text, ensured that valuable information, including religious scriptures, scientific treatises, literature, and legal documents, could be preserved for centuries. Conversely, the cheaper, more portable, and standardized nature of the paper utilized by the displayed 14th century Golden Legend and the 15th century French Missal reflect an increasing demand for private and personalized Christian devotion. Increased literacy and upward social mobility contributed to a growing desire for these types of manuscripts among citizens of ordinary means. Lives of the saints and books of hours, printed in hundreds of different editions toward the end of the 15th century, were among the first commercially successful ventures in the new medium.

Link to finding aid for Priscian Fragments collection

Link to Medieval Manuscripts in eGrove