Henry the Sixth : a reprint of John Blacman's memoir, with translation and notes

This volume brings to life a little‑known medieval treatise on the personality of King Henry VI, a work that had long been confined to the shelves of a few specialist libraries. The original manuscript, dating back to the early sixteenth century, was only ever printed in a handful of copies, making its contents a rare glimpse into contemporary views of the young monarch’s character and reign. The editor has carefully collated the surviving editions, providing a clear translation and scholarly notes that illuminate the text’s historical context.

The book is presented in a compact, modern binding that preserves the charm of the original. A striking woodcut—showing a bearded king in regal attire—graces the front, accompanied by decorative borders featuring prophetic figures. Detailed marginal notes and bibliographic information guide readers through the complex transmission history, while the editor’s introduction explains the significance of the various printers’ marks and later additions.

Ideal for students of late‑medieval England, lovers of manuscript studies, or anyone curious about how early chroniclers portrayed Henry VI, this edition offers both accessibility and depth without sacrificing the intrigue of its scholarly origins.