The Miracles of Mary in Twelfth-Century France

Murder in a cathedral, horrific illnesses and deformities, narrow escapes from injury and death, a vengeful dragon, a wandering eyeball, a bawdy monk and other sinners redeemed--the accounts of miracles performed by the Virgin Mary gathered and translated in The Miracles of Mary in Twelfth-Century France provide vivid glimpses into medieval life and beliefs. Bruce L. Venarde provides fluent translations of the first five collections of Marian miracle narratives from France, written in Latin between 1130 and 1150, and never before available in English.

The stories recorded in these collections--by Herman of Tournai; Hugh Farsit; Haimo of Saint-Pierre-sur-Dives; John, son of Peter; and Gautier of Compiègne--offer descriptions of travel, living conditions, medical knowledge, conflict between lay and religious authorities, and the burgeoning cult of the Virgin Mary, which had only recently become important to Christian devotion. Including notes, tables, and maps that orient and illuminate the texts, The Miracles of Mary in Twelfth-Century France makes these riveting tales available to readers seeking a view into the medieval past.

Bruce L. Venarde is an independent researcher whose interests include medieval European monasticism, gender, and religious practices. His books include Women’s Monasticismand Medieval Society and an edition and translation of the Rule of Saint Benedict.