Medieval Manuscript Reading

📅 Starts July 8 | Tuesdays at 19:00 CET / 1:00 PM ET | Duration: 12 Weeks | Recordings Available

Step into the world of medieval manuscripts with this unique hands-on course. Rather than focusing on technical paleography, this course is designed as a reading laboratory—a practical space to develop your skills by reading real manuscripts, one page at a time.

What You’ll Learn

Each week, we’ll examine a different famous manuscript, focusing on:

• Deciphering medieval scripts

• Recognizing and expanding common abbreviations

• Translating Latin texts for full understanding

• Navigating digitized manuscript libraries

• Applying effective reading and interpretation strategies

Script Styles Covered

Over 12 sessions, you’ll progressively learn to read:

• Roman bookhand (capitalis, uncial)

• Carolingian minuscule

• Gothic script

• Humanistic script

Texts will grow gradually in difficulty, allowing you to build skill and confidence step by step.

Featured Manuscripts Include:

• Codex Amiatinus — the oldest complete Latin Bible

• Bible of Borso d’Este — a Renaissance masterpiece

• Vergilius Romanus — an early illustrated Virgil

• …and other iconic manuscript from the Latin tradition.

Who Can Join?

A basic knowledge of Latin is required, as we will translate each text to ensure full comprehension. No prior training in paleography is needed.

Format & Materials

• Live sessions are held via Zoom

• All sessions are recorded and available for later viewing

• Students receive transcriptions, abbreviation charts, and other reading aids

• A certificate of completion is available upon request

Note: When purchased as a standalone course, this program includes lifetime access to all video recordings. It is also included at no extra cost in the Pro Membership Plan.