Routledge Jacob's Well - Middle-English Treatise on Conscience

Explore a significant piece of literary history with Jacob's Well: An English Treatise on the Cleansing of Man's Conscience. This Routledge Revival edition presents a volume originally edited from a unique 1440 A.D. manuscript held at Salisbury Cathedral. As one of the more voluminous penitential manuals of its era, it stands alongside historical works like Handlyng Synne and Parson's Tale. The text uses a powerful allegory where a well of mire represents the sins of humanity. It explores the process of cleaning this well to become a fit receptacle of Grace, mirroring how individuals may cleanse their own consciences. This volume is designed for students of Middle English and literary history, providing a direct look at the spiritual and linguistic landscape of the period. This edition includes a modest introduction to provide context, followed by the original Middle-English text. To assist with reading and study, the volume also includes glosses, making this rare manuscript accessible to those interested in the history and criticism of literary movements.