Extremely Rare Medieval Manuscript Discovered in Shrewsbury

The discovery provides fresh insight into the development of medieval Christian writing and English literary culture.

The manuscript was found by medieval literature researcher Dr Timothy Glover, reports the University of Cambridge, and the discovery provides fresh insight into the development of medieval Christian writing and English literary culture.

Dr Glover has confirmed that the manuscript, known at Shrewsbury School as MS 25, preserves the text exactly as Rolle wrote it, rather than the later abridged versions found in more than 120 surviving copies around the world. The manuscript was gifted to the School in 1607, just a year after the foundation of the Ancient Library.

As holders of significant historic collections, Shrewsbury School is proud to support academic research and the careful preservation of materials that continue to shape understanding of the past.

Dr Glover said:

“I'm the only person since the Middle Ages to have read this knowing that it’s Rolle’s original.

“It's such an important manuscript and it offers a direct connection with an author who deserves far greater recognition.

“Medieval people struggled with distractions as we do today. They were trying to still their wandering minds. Rolle offered practical strategies to help, and some people treated him like a saint for it.”

Founded in 1606, the Taylor Library remains one of Shrewsbury School’s most treasured academic resources, preserving centuries of scholarship, supporting teaching and research, and welcoming visitors to explore its remarkable collections.

Dr Timothy Glover published his findings while working at Corpus Christi College Cambridge.