Manuscript of book I of the ‘Scale of perfection’ by Walter Hilton., Mid 15th-century.
Scope and Contents
The text begins 'Gostely suster in Jhesu Crist I praye the', and is preceded by a list of chapters.
The chapter divisions do not always correspond to those in Evelyn Underhill's edition. The text represents the earlier of the two versions (see Underhill's edition, page xliv). It includes the passage on the Holy Name of Jesus in cap. xliv (folio 33); and belongs to class A of Helen L Gardner's classification.
Four leaves have been cut out at the end, the text ending 'thou shalt wanten the tastyng and' (cap. lxxxii).
Two leaves have been inserted at the end of the volume, containing the beginning of 'De Gracia Dei', attributed to Richard Rolle, ending 'Gracia eius' (folio 61), and printed in ‘Yorkshire writers: Richard Rolle of Hampole’, volume i, pages 305-306.
Initials in red and blue with pen decoration and marginal flourishes.
Dates
- Creation: Mid 15th-century.
Conditions Governing Access
Normal access conditions apply.
Conditions Governing Use
Normal reproduction conditions apply, subject to any copyright restrictions.
Extent
63 Leaves ; 250 x 165 millimetres.
Language of Materials
English, Middle (1100-1500)
Arrangement
i + 62 folios.
Collation: 1-7⁸, 8⁸ (wants 5-8), 9 (2 leaves). Folios in the first half of most gatherings are marked with small letters and Roman numerals. With catchwords.
Custodial History
Bookplate of John Borthwick of Borthwick and Crookston.
Immediate Source of Acquisition
Bought, 1960.
Bibliography
Physical Description
Vellum. Modern binding.
Genre / Form
Repository Details
Part of the National Library of Scotland Archives and Manuscripts Division Repository
Archives and Manuscript Division
National Library of Scotland
George IV Bridge
Edinburgh EH1 1EJ
0131 623 3700
manuscripts@nls.uk