Overview
An absorbing history of Europe's nine most puzzling texts, including the biggest mystery of all: the Voynich Manuscript Books can change the world. They can influence, entertain, transport, and enlighten. But across the centuries, authors have disguised their work with codes and ciphers, secret scripts and magical signs. What made these authors decide to keep their writings secret? What were they trying to hide? Garry J. Shaw tells the stories of nine puzzling European texts. Shaw explores the unknown alphabet of the nun Hildegard of Bingen; the enciphered manuscripts of the prank-loving physician Giovanni Fontana; and the angel communications of the polymath John Dee. Along the way, we discover how the pioneers of science and medicine concealed their work, encounter demon magic and secret societies, and delve into the intricate symbolism of alchemists searching for the Philosopher's Stone. This highly enjoyable account takes readers on a fascinating journey through Europe's most cryptic writings—and attempts to shed new light on the biggest mystery of all: the Voynich Manuscript.
Full Product Details
Author: Garry J. Shaw
Publisher: Yale University Press
Imprint: Yale University Press
ISBN: 9780300266511
ISBN 10: 0300266510
Pages: 352
Publication Date: 27 May 2025
Audience:
College/higher education
,
Professional and scholarly
,
Postgraduate, Research & Scholarly
,
Professional & Vocational
Format: Hardback
Publisher's Status: Active
Availability: Out of stock
The supplier is temporarily out of stock of this item. It will be ordered for you on backorder and shipped when it becomes available.
Reviews
“Hugely enjoyable.”—Mathew Lyons, Broken Compass “A richly illustrated guide that deftly leads you through a maze of historical mysteries, from angelic language to alchemical secrets. This ‘Meetings with Mysterious Manuscripts’ will take you down so many deeply intriguing rabbit holes that you might not find your way back to the daylight.”—Edward Brooke-Hitching, author of The Most Interesting Book in the World “This is a masterfully written and compelling exploration of the Voynich manuscript and other enigmatic texts. An essential read for anyone interested in ciphers, secret languages, and the enduring Voynich mystery.”—Benedek Láng, author of The Rohonc Code “Stands out for being fully up to date with the latest information. Shaw provides a thoughtful and balanced analysis of the Voynich Manuscript in particular, without falling into the trap of adventurous speculation.”—René Zandbergen, author of The Voynich Manuscript: The World’s Most Mysterious and Esoteric Codex
“A richly illustrated guide that deftly leads you through a maze of historical mysteries, from angelic language to alchemical secrets. This ‘Meetings with Mysterious Manuscripts’ will take you down so many deeply intriguing rabbit holes that you might not find your way back to the daylight.”—Edward Brooke-Hitching, author of The Most Interesting Book in the World “This is a masterfully written and compelling exploration of the Voynich manuscript and other enigmatic texts. An essential read for anyone interested in ciphers, secret languages, and the enduring Voynich mystery.”—Benedek Láng, author of The Rohonc Code “Stands out for being fully up to date with the latest information. Shaw provides a thoughtful and balanced analysis of the Voynich Manuscript in particular, without falling into the trap of adventurous speculation.”— René Zandbergen, author of The Voynich Manuscript: The World's Most Mysterious and Esoteric Codex
Author Information
Garry J. Shaw is an author and journalist, covering archaeology, history, world heritage, exhibitions, and travel. He is the author of several books, including The Story of Tutankhamun and The Egyptian Myths: A Guide to the Ancient Gods and Legends.
