Edition of the German Mirror of Salvation (Anonymous Verse Translation of the Speculum humanae salvationis)

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Martin Schubert
• Subject Area: German Medieval Studies (Medieval German Literature) ; General and Comparative Literature and Cultural Studies
• Term: from 2013 to 2014
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 230798494

Aim of the project is the edition of the so-called Anonymous Verse Translation of the Mirror of Salvation (Speculum humanae salvationis). The latin Mirror of Salvation, written in the early 14th century, is one of the most important works of late-medieval catechetics. The combined work of latin verse and miniatures explains the relation of Old and New Testament und thus the divine plan of the world's structure; it developped into one of the most successful types of book of the times and was often translated into vernacular languages. More than 400 manuscripts are still extant. Under several German verse translations, the so-called Anonymous Verse Translation with the German title Spiegel der menschlichen Seligkeit was widest spread, yet it still remains unedited. How widely this text was recepted show the 18 manuscripts and 10 fragments delivered unto us. Knowing this text is important for the understanding of the functioniung and dissemination of theological knowledge in a vernacular language. In addition, the Spiegel is especially important for research on transmission and variants in mediaeval scripture. The project wants to make this text accessible and through a scholarly edition provide a basis for further research. Its aim is a printed edition after the Karlsruhe ms. Cod. K 3378, complete with readings, sources and explanations. complemented by digital resources (text plus transcriptions).

• DFG Programme: Research Grants