Gerson Bilingue.

Le témoignage du ms. Lille, Médiathèque Jean Levy, 345 (BM, 129)

Abstract

Jean Gerson (1363-1429) wrote in Latin and French. He translated some of his works, and numerous other translations circulated, to the point that it is sometimes difficult to distinguish between original versions and later reworkings. In this context, MS Lille 345 (late 15th century) holds a special, previously unknown status. It contains the translation, in some cases the French retroversion, sometimes considerably amplified, of five treatises printed in Latin in the chancellor's Opera omnia. The article identifies the texts, all relating to monastic life (the question of obedience and property) and spiritual direction (advice for a devout life suitable for ordinary people, against scruples of conscience, and for facing the temptations of the devil). It details the attribution to Gerson in incunabula and provides the incipit of the different versions (original French version where applicable, printed Latin text, and manuscript version). In conclusion, he tries to define the personality of the copyist-translator-author, who remains anonymous : probably a Benedictine, demonstrating a solid education.