“Medieval Lore: An Epitome of the Science, Geography, Animal and Plant Folk-Lore and Myth of the Middle Age” is a curated selection from the 13th-century encyclopedic work “De Proprietatibus Rerum” by Bartholomaeus Anglicus. Edited by Robert Steele and prefaced by William Morris, this 1893 publication offers modern readers a window into the medieval understanding of the world, encompassing topics from theology and natural sciences to geography and folklore. The original text, written in Latin, was widely disseminated during the Middle Ages and translated into several languages, including French, Spanish, Dutch, and English, highlighting its significance in medieval scholarship.

Bartholomaeus Anglicus’s work is organized into 19 books, each dedicated to a specific subject area. These range from discussions on God and angels to explorations of human physiology, elements of the natural world, and various forms of life. The encyclopedic nature of the text reflects the medieval ambition to compile and categorize all known knowledge, serving as a vital resource for scholars of the time. The blend of empirical observation with myth and folklore offers insight into the medieval mindset, where scientific inquiry and legend often intertwined.

In “Medieval Lore,” Steele presents selected excerpts that exemplify the breadth and depth of Bartholomaeus’s original work. The inclusion of John de Trevisa’s English translation makes the text accessible to those unfamiliar with Latin, preserving the linguistic nuances of the period. William Morris’s preface adds further context, shedding light on the historical and cultural significance of the work. This compilation not only serves as a scholarly resource but also as a testament to the enduring human quest for knowledge and understanding of the natural world.

The enduring relevance of “Medieval Lore” lies in its encapsulation of the medieval worldview, offering contemporary readers a comprehensive understanding of how people in the Middle Ages perceived their environment. The work stands as a bridge between past and present, illustrating the evolution of scientific thought and the rich tapestry of folklore that has shaped cultural narratives through the centuries.