Introduction

Abstract

Abstract The spread of literacy beyond the great convents and the major schools was one of the most consequential changes in European culture around 1300. This development affected the Crown of Aragon no less than other regions of the medieval West. Two examples from diverse circumstances aptly illustrate its effects there. In the fall of 1292, King James II of Aragon sent brief letters to Ricard de Passanet, a “knight,” and to Roger de Vilaragut, the “portulan master for Sicily,” ordering them to return certain books, designated only as Librus romancii and Thesaurus, which they had borrowed from the king.’ Other records indicate that James was indeed an active collector and lender of books. In 1354 Vicar-General Francese Ruffach issued a compilation of synodal statutes for the diocese of Barcelona. These rules included the provision, already in force, that all parish priests, whether engaged in the care of souls or not, must own a copy of the guide to pastoral care prepared for them by John of Alexandria. These documents indicate situations—book lending among the aristocracy and widespread literacy among parish clergy—that would have been rare, if not impossible, a few centuries earlier.