
The printed book did not number the pages in sequence; instead it numbered the recto (odd, right) pages of the first few leaves in each signature. Folio numbers in smaller print were added by the transcriber; all verso (even, left) pages are shown as ||. Two sets of pages were apparently printed out of sequence. Details are given at the end of the text, along with notes on a few other problems.
¶ Here begynneth the boke called the example of vertu.
Tabula libri
The prologe.
Explicit prologus.
Capitulum primũ
¶ Capitulum.ii.
Capitulum tercium.
Capitulum.iiii.
Capitulum.v.
An intriguing glimpse into a medieval mindset, this work opens with a uniquely crafted manuscript—pages numbered in a puzzling fashion, superscript abbreviations, and occasional typographical quirks that invite listeners to experience the text as it was originally presented. The prose blends archaic spelling with a lyrical rhythm, echoing the scholarly traditions of its time while remaining accessible enough for modern ears.
The narrative follows a youth who encounters the personified virtues of Discretion, Sapience, Fortune, Hardiness, and Nature, each offering counsel as he navigates a dream‑like meadow. Guided by their teachings, he embarks on a perilous passage toward an imagined island, confronting early temptations and learning the foundations of moral conduct. Listeners will be drawn into this allegorical quest, savoring the interplay of poetic description and philosophical reflection that sets the stage for the hero’s further adventures.
Full title
The Example of Vertu The Example of Virtue The Example of Virtue
Language
en
Duration
~1 hours (83K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Produced by Louise Hope, David Starner and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net
Release date
2007-08-26
Rights
Public domain in the USA.
A court poet in the age of Henry VII, he is best remembered for turning learning, chivalry, and moral ambition into richly allegorical verse. His most famous work, The Passetyme of Pleasure, helped carry medieval poetic traditions into the early Tudor world.
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