Definition The Rolls Series, formally known as Rerum Britannicarum Medii Aevi Scriptores (Latin for "Writers of British History in the Middle Ages"), is a monumental collection of primary source materials relating to the history of Great Britain and Ireland during the medieval period.
Overview Initiated in 1857 under the authority of the British Treasury and directed by the Master of the Rolls, the series aimed to publish previously unprinted or inadequately edited chronicles, charters, state papers, and other historical documents. The project continued into the early 20th century, ultimately comprising 253 volumes covering events from the Roman period up to the reign of Henry VII. Each volume typically includes the original text, often in Latin, Old English, or Anglo-Norman French, accompanied by an extensive English preface, notes, and an index, providing context and critical analysis. The series made a vast array of crucial historical sources accessible to scholars and the public.
Etymology/Origin The popular name "Rolls Series" derives directly from the involvement and oversight of the Master of the Rolls, a senior judicial position in England and Wales who historically had custody of many public records. At the time of the series' inception, the Master of the Rolls was Sir John Romilly. The series was administered through the Public Record Office (now part of The National Archives), which was established in 1838 to consolidate and preserve government records. The historical imperative behind its creation was a growing recognition of the importance of primary sources for accurate historical scholarship, coupled with a nationalistic pride in British history during the Victorian era.
Characteristics The volumes of the Rolls Series are characterized by:
- Breadth of Scope: Covering a vast chronological period and a wide variety of document types, including monastic chronicles (e.g., Matthew Paris's Chronica Majora), royal letters, legal records, and historical prose.
- Original Language Texts: The primary content is presented in its original language, often with Latin being the dominant language for many medieval texts, alongside Anglo-Norman French and Old English.
- Scholarly Apparatus: Each volume typically features a substantial English-language introduction that provides a critical assessment of the text, biographical information about the author (if known), and details about the manuscripts used. Extensive footnotes and indices are also common.
- Editorial Standards: While editorial standards varied among the many editors involved over the decades, many volumes remain valuable resources for historical research. However, some editions have been superseded by more modern critical editions that benefit from later scholarship and improved philological techniques.
- Physical Format: The books are typically large, well-bound volumes, reflecting the seriousness and academic intent of the project.
Related Topics
- Public Record Office
- The National Archives (UK)
- Master of the Rolls
- Medieval British History
- Primary Sources
- Victorian Historiography
- Historical Documents
- Palaeography