Bede: The Reckoning of Time

This book offers a comprehensive study of medieval time reckoning and calendar construction, focusing on Bede's influential work.

From the patristic age until the Gregorian calendar reform of 1582, computus – the science of time reckoning and art of calendar construction – was a subject of intense concern to medieval people. This historical context sets the stage for understanding Bede: The Reckoning of Time, which stands as a significant work in the realm of calendar studies. Bede’s treatise is not merely a technical manual; it offers a comprehensive exploration of the Julian solar calendar and the Paschal table of Dionysius Exiguus, providing essential formulae for calculating dates.

Bede: The Reckoning of Time serves as a foundational text that influenced subsequent discussions and teachings regarding the Christian calendar. Bede skillfully weaves calendar lore into a broader scientific narrative, presenting a coherent Christian concept of time. His work encompasses various themes, including the theory of tides and the implications of chiliasm, showcasing the interconnectedness of different fields of knowledge during the medieval period.

This translation includes an extensive historical introduction and detailed chapter-by-chapter commentary, making it an accessible resource for those interested in the computus. Readers will find that Bede: The Reckoning of Time not only elucidates the complexities of calendar construction but also invites contemplation on the nature of time itself, reflecting the profound concerns of medieval society.