The Visitation of Hereford Diocese in 1397 - (Canterbury & York Society) by Ian Forrest (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

Text with facing English translation provides fascinating insights into medieval religious life.

JOINT WINNER: 2023 BRITISH RECORD ASSOCIATION HARLEY PRIZE

In 1397 the bishop of Hereford toured his diocese asking questions about its churches and people. The answers he received were written into a slim paper book, which survives in the cathedral archives today. This important medieval document offers unparalleled insight into social life, sexual behaviour, religious belief and practice, and gender relations during a period of religious and political turmoil, revealing how the clergy were disciplined, how English- and Welsh-speakers interacted, and how the congregation experienced worship. It is also a major early source for Welsh naming practices, and a treasure trove of information about local churches and parishes before the Reformation.
This volume provides a complete scholarly edition, accompanied by a full facing-page translation, introduction and notes; it will be invaluable for experienced researchers and students alike.

Review Quotes

[T]his volume presents the Latin text on one page with a facing English translation. The decision to publish the record of this visitation in both languages is especially laudable.-- "The Newsletter of the Ranulf Higden Society"

The Visitation of Hereford Diocese in 1397 will be of great interest to people researching medieval religion and
everyday life. The decision to publish this visitation's record in both languages is especially laudable as this
renders the book particularly useful to anyone wanting to improve their medieval Latin.--LOCAL HISTORIAN