[Commonplace book], [1697-1728].

ArchivalResource

Cliff, Jer. Jeremiah?,. [Commonplace book], [1697-1728].

[Commonplace book], [1697-1728].

http://www.worldcat.org/oclc/702175244

Manuscript, in a single hand, of a collection of several hundred primarily religious or lighthearted entries, including poetry, recipes, sermons, epitaphs, extracts, and a treatise on the months and phases of the moon. The manuscript contains verses copied from early 17th-century books, including Remains concerning Britain by William Camden and Josuah Sylvester's translation of Du Bartas's Divine weeks & works, as well as more contemporary works, such as The true-Bred Englishman and The mock-mourners, by Daniel Defoe. Several of the religious poems are anti-Catholic, while others focus on the subjects of women and love. Other entries include extracts from sermons of Hugh Latimer and colloquies of Erasmus; recipes, including some from Helmes Trismegistus; extracts from the Journal of Nathaniel Mist; and a lengthy treatise on the months, the phases of the moon, and astrological signs entitled The shepherd's kalendar, which is accompanied by illustrations of astrological signs; a shepherd reaching for the stars;and a diagram with moveable parts, held in place by a pin. In addition to the illustrations accompanying the astrological treatise, the manuscript contains a drawing of the Virgin Mary titled "Taken oute of T. V. Monk of the holy Order of St. Benedict It shews their absurdity."

1 v. (484 p.) ; 18 x 15 cm.

Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library