The Edited Text and the Selected Text and the Problem of Critical Editions

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter

Abstract

The form of an edition and the choices made by its editor exert significant influence over a text's interpretation. This essay reconsiders the late Middle English devotional compilation Contemplations of the Dread and Love of God, edited from manuscripts that contain the full version of the text. Many sections also occur independently, but are these extracts from the full text or precursors to it? This essay reviews the evidence in relation to the work's final chapter, AB, and identifies a previously unnoticed manuscript copy of this part of the text. It also argues that new perspectives may be required to reach a deeper understanding of the transmission of Middle English devotional prose texts.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationEditing and Interpretation of Middle English Texts
Subtitle of host publicationEssays in Honour of William Marx
EditorsMargaret Connolly, Raluca Radulescu
Place of PublicationTurnhout
PublisherBrepols Publishers
Pages229-247
ISBN (Print)978-2-503-56847-8
Publication statusPublished - 15 Feb 2018

Publication series

NameTexts and Transitions
PublisherBreppols
Volume12

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