English Nuns with a Continental Vision: The Adaptation of a Revelation of Six Psalms for Hampole Priory

Abstract

ABSTRACT A unique fifteenth-century Middle English visionary account survives about a nun of Hampole Priory who saves the soul of her deceased brother. Scholars have long considered it an authentic narrative from Hampole Priory. Yet, near-identical texts in Dutch and German manuscripts suggest that it is a translation of a Continental source instead. My analysis shows that while the Continental versions were designed for female religious readers, the English version was adapted for a lay audience. I argue that Hampole Priory used the reworked narrative to promote its intercessory prayers among and attract donations from lay benefactors.