Two Revisions of Rolle's English Psalter Commentary and the Related Canticles

This work presents the first complete edition of the initial Lollard revision of Richard Rolle's English commentary on the Psalter, alongside detailed evidence for the subsequent revision and related Canticles.

Two Revisions of Rolle's English Psalter Commentary and the Related Canticles presents a comprehensive edition of the first Lollard revision of Richard Rolle's English commentary on the Psalter. This edition offers a detailed examination of both the initial and subsequent revisions, drawing from a thorough analysis of all existing manuscripts. Additionally, it includes the twelve commentaries on the Canticles that were associated with the Psalter commentary, emphasizing their integral role in the overall work.

Richard Rolle, a notable hermit and scholar from Yorkshire who passed away in 1349, authored two commentaries on the Psalms—one in Latin and the other in English. Approximately fifty years after his death, his English commentary underwent revisions by various Lollard writers, reflecting a more radical perspective. This edition not only highlights the first Lollard revision but also provides substantial evidence regarding the second revision, showcasing the efforts of an organized academic team that dedicated considerable time to refining the text.

This publication marks the first volume of a planned three-volume series. Volume 1 contains the introduction and covers Psalms 1-34, while the subsequent volumes, to be released as O.S. 341 and 343, will include the remaining text along with explanatory notes and a glossary. The work serves as a significant contribution to the study of medieval biblical commentary and the evolution of religious thought during this period.