Sainthood, Scriptoria, and Secular Erudition in Medieval and Early Modern Scandinavia: Essays in Honour of Kirsten Wolf ed. by Dario Bullitta and Natalie M. Van Dreusen (review)

Abstract

what appears in regions considered exotic by Europeans. In this section Buettner discusses trade routes, mining, and maps, the interests of merchants and princes in treasures and travel, with geography and art. The three sections of this book deal with three quite different arenas, and possibly to three quite different audiences. Each could be a separate study, which is both frustrating and fascinating. The work opens new areas of research that expands our understanding of late medieval society. The focus on secular evidence also ties in with current work being done on inventories and other forms of material culture that are also proving fruitful for researchers. This book is stimulating, thought-provoking, and should be read by anyone interested in the role of precious stones in medieval secular culture. Judith Collard, The University of Melbourne