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Title
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Manuscript Project
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Name
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Ben Jacobs
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Abstract
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he manuscript Didactic pieces, created between 1425 and 1450, is a collection of religious and moral texts written in Middle English. It contains poems, prayers, and instructional writings, many by the poet Thomas Hoccleve. The manuscript was meant to guide readers in spiritual reflection and ethical behavior. It served as a tool for devotion and moral teachings.
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For the first part of the assignment, I was the paper maker. Originally, I had no idea how to turn regular printer paper into a medieval manuscript. However, after some helpful Google searches and research, soaking my paper in coffee was the best bet. To do this, I filled a large bowl with Keurig-brewed coffee (not discriminating based on roasts). I then soaked my papers into the coffee. I soon realized that I made a mistake. The paper all stuck together and became useless. As a result, another trip to the library was required as I had to steal more printer paper.
For my second attempt, I soaked the printer paper individually. Though time-consuming, I knew it would provide the best results. I left each paper in for about 10 minutes, listened to some tunes, and did some work in between. When I picked up the paper from the coffee, I would then let it dry on a towel for about an hour. During the drying process, for a reason I am not sure of, the paper naturally aged and looked older. Initially, I planned on adding further paper aging techniques, such as crumbling the paper or burning the edges. This proved unnecessary, and I was extremely satisfied with the result. Finally, after some patience, my work as paper-maker was done!
Unfortunately, another issue that occurred was a miscommunication between my group. When making the papers, I assumed that we would use both sides; however, the illuminator only used single sides. Since the project required limited communication from each group member, this issue was noticed after our manuscript was bound and will need to be fixed during the next part of the assignment.
Overall, I had a great time during this part of the project. It was fun to do a hands-on homework assignment rather than staring at a computer, as I do for most of my time as college student. While I was a little upset that I may have wasted some K-Cups, I was glad that they were put to some good, non-drinking use.
