Beunans Meriasek, Medieval manuscript at National Library of Wales, United Kingdom
Beunans Meriasek is a handwritten medieval manuscript containing 180 pages of Middle Cornish text bound in leather. The pages are modest in size and show carefully inscribed verses throughout, with notes added for theatrical presentation.
Created in 1504 by Master Nad Ton, this manuscript is one of only two surviving Middle Cornish plays. It came from the Hengwrt library collection, making it a rare record of theatrical literature from that era.
The text tells religious stories in rhymed verses about Saint Meriasek, Saint Sylvester, and the Virgin Mary through dialogue and verse. Latin stage directions show these verses were meant to be performed, reflecting how people shared their faith through dramatic storytelling.
The original manuscript is available to researchers under special conditions, but digital versions and microfilm copies are open for general viewing. Visitors should expect that accessing the original requires advance planning, while other formats are readily available.
The manuscript shows two distinct handwriting styles throughout its pages, suggesting different scribes worked on it. It also contains diagrams showing stage plans for performances that spanned two full days.
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