lostmss.co.uk

Lost Manuscripts is an innovative project spearheaded by Dr. David Rundle from the Centre for Medieval and Early Modern Studies at the University of Kent. This initiative focuses on creating a comprehensive union catalogue of manuscript fragments found throughout the British Isles, highlighting the often-overlooked realm of fragmentary manuscripts. While complete manuscripts capture most scholarly attention, this project delves into those fragments that offer tantalizing insights into the manuscripts that once existed.

The project is inspired by historical practices surrounding manuscript dismemberment, especially prominent during the sixteenth century in England, and seeks to transform our understanding of manuscript culture. It comprises two main elements: a pilot catalogue that surveys fragments in volumes owned by Samuel Harsnett at the University of Essex and an online edition of Neil Ker’s influential work, Pastedowns. As Lost Manuscripts continues to grow, it invites contributions and insights from the public to enrich its cataloguing efforts and expand its understanding of manuscript history.