Book curses / Eleanor Baker.

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Baker, Eleanor, author.

Language:

English

Subjects (All):

Books.

Books--Owners' marks.

Books--History.

Blessing and cursing.

Cursed objects.

books.

Physical Description:

118 pages ; 20 cm

Other Title:

Book curses : steal not this book for fear of shame for here doth stand the owner's name.

Place of Publication:

Oxford : Bodleian Library Publishing, 2024.

Summary:

"Have you ever wanted to protect your books from forgetful borrowers, merciless page-folders or outright thieves? Perhaps you have even wished harm on those who have damaged your books, but would you threaten them with hellfire, hanging or the plague? This book contains a collection of some of the most ferocious and humorous book curses ever inscribed, from fearsome threats discovered emblazoned on stone monuments from the ancient Near East, to elaborate manuscript maledictions and chilling warnings scribbled in printed books. Book curses are entertaining writings in themselves, but they also offer a tantalising insight into how passionately texts and books have been valued by their owners and readers over the centuries. Here you will find an engaging introduction to the history and development of the book curse and perhaps some inspiration to pen a few of your own"--Publisher's description.

Contents:

Introduction

Book curses from antiquity

Early medieval book curses

High medieval book curses

Late medieval book curses

Early modern book curses

Modern book curses.

Notes:

Includes bibliographical references (pages 112-118).

ISBN:

9781851246304

1851246304

OCLC:

1492588063