Medieval Manuscripts for Mass and Office: A Guide to their Organization and Terminology (review)

Short notices 263 represents nevertheless a useful contribution to the understanding of a rich and vital theme in the Reformer's thought. John Tonkin Department of History University of Western Australia Hughes, Andrew, Medieval Manuscripts for Mass and Office: A Guide to their Organization and Terminology, Toronto and Buffalo, University of Toronto Press, rpt., 1995; paper; pp. xl, 470; R.R.P. US$29.95. Recently a member of a medieval on-line discussion group asked where the phrase 'Gloria in excelsis Deo' came from, as it was not in the bible. This indicates the level to which knowledge of the liturgy has sunk, even among academics. Although Hughes's book assumes a higher level of competence than that of the enquirer, on itsfirstappearance in 1982 it was rightly welcomed with open arms as a relatively straightforward guide to the complex subject of how medieval liturgical texts are organised. The first paperback edition of the 1986 reprint makes this essential work of reference even more accessible. The text is substantially unchanged though some items have been added to the bibliography. Otherwise, there are three additions of substance. The first is a short section on ecclesiastical terminology, in particular the use of the terms text, chant and office. The second, a supplement to the Abbreviations section following the Preface, concerns the adaptations made to Hughes's original system by the demands of computerisation; these mainly have to do with substitutes for the different typefaces used in the first edition. Finally, attached to Appendix I on the kalendar, feasts and the Sanctorale, is a note on kalendar dates and their variability in time and place. The reader has to work hard to get the most out of this book, but it will continue to be an essential working tool for those who in the course of their research have reason to deal with liturgical manuscripts. . Alexandra Barratt Department of English University of Waikato ...