Four 13th century copies of the Magna Carta, considered to be one of the most important documents in the history of democracy, go on public display next week for the first time in nearly 800 years.Well done, incidentally, to Sarah Thomas, who wins our Plural of the Day Award.
The four, three of which date from 1217 and one from 1225, are held by Oxford University's Bodleian Library and represent nearly one quarter of the surviving 13th century Magna Carta manuscripts in the world.
"These three 1217 charters are a unique historical collection," said librarian Sarah Thomas. "No other institution can boast such a concentration of Magna Cartae."
Thanks to The Cowley Street Bedouin.
4 comments:
She should, of course, have written 'magnae cartae' as the case of the adjective [magnus, magna] must agree with that of the noun [carta = feminine plural]: ah well, even in 1215 there would have been plenty of educated people who didn't how to decline an adjective.
Or maybe Magnarum Cartarum? (Feminine genitive plural)
The Australian Parliament (impressive building for something built in the 90s, grand and dignified but not too pretentios) has a copy of Magna Carta on display that I am pretty sure is 13th century too.
Or, indeed, Cartarum Magnarum might be more elegant.
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