Een lekenboek in woord en beeld

Een lekenboek in woord en beeld

By Bernadette Kramer

Book Description

This scholarly exploration reveals how medieval spiritual texts transformed to serve everyday believers seeking deeper connection with their faith. Bernadette Kramer examines the fascinating evolution of the "Speculum humanae salvationis," a foundational work from around 1300 that originally served as a preaching resource for clergy.

The book centers on a remarkable fifteenth-century manuscript known as the "Spegel der minschliken zalicheid," housed in Copenhagen's Royal Library. Kramer demonstrates how this beautifully illuminated text, created in Bruges' renowned Golden Scrollwork workshop, was specifically adapted for personal spiritual practice among lay people rather than institutional use.

Through careful analysis of the manuscript's visual changes and artistic choices, Kramer shows how medieval craftsmen deliberately modified both images and text to create an intimate devotional experience. The work reveals how stories from Mary's life and Christ's ministry were paired with three corresponding Old Testament narratives, illustrating how ancient prophecies found fulfillment in Christian revelation.

What emerges is a compelling portrait of how spiritual literature can be reimagined to meet the contemplative needs of ordinary seekers. The interplay between written word and visual imagery created what Kramer describes as a "performative reading experience" that engaged medieval readers in active spiritual reflection.

This study offers valuable insights for anyone interested in how sacred texts adapt across time to nurture personal spiritual growth and understanding.

Who Is This For?

📖 Reading Level: Medium (200-400 pages) (~8 hours)

📄 Length: 279 pages

What You'll Discover

  • ✓ Explore History
  • ✓ Explore Medieval Illumination of books and manuscripts
  • ✓ Explore History of Biblical events
  • ✓ Explore Manuscripts, Latin (Medieval and modern)
  • ✓ Explore Pictorial works
  • ✓ Explore In literature
  • ✓ Explore Typology (Theology) in literature
  • ✓ Explore Sociological aspects

Topics Covered

History Medieval Illumination of books and manuscripts History of Biblical events Manuscripts, Latin (Medieval and modern) Pictorial works In literature Typology (Theology) in literature Sociological aspects Salvation Bible Early works to 1800 Speculum humanae salvationis Translations into German

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