Magdalene Library News
Library News
Thomas Britton’s Book Auction
Pepys acquired books from Thomas Britton’s auction, a detail previously unknown. This was revealed by Greg Smith at the British Library, uncovering a new provenance for several works in the Pepys Library.
Katherine Philips (1631-1664)
For International Women’s Day, we highlight Katherine Philips, a pioneering 17th-century poet and translator. Known for her work on friendship, she earned recognition, even in Samuel Pepys's time.
The Genoa Psalter
The Genoa Psalter, the first known polyglot work, features Hebrew, Latin, Greek, Arabic, and other languages. It includes a biography of Christopher Columbus and handwritten inscriptions linking it to notable figures.
Lewis Carroll
Magdalene’s Old Library now has an online catalogue of 19th and 20th-century mathematical and scientific books, including works by Charles Dodgson, better known as Lewis Carroll.
Magdalene Memories: Antony Grey
This article highlights Antony Grey’s pivotal role in the 1967 Sexual Offences Act, his activism for gay rights, and his contributions to Magdalene College’s library, including donations of his publications.
A 16th Century Cinderella?
Johann Geiler von Kaysersberg's Das Irrig Schaf (1510) includes one of the earliest versions of the Cinderella story. The book was once owned by Johann Eck and later donated to Magdalene College.
The Elzevier Dynasty
Magdalene College’s Old Library holds works by Louis Elzevier, founder of the renowned publishing dynasty. His influence is seen in miniature editions, book auctions, and the collection of Samuel Pepys.
Frankfurt Book Fair
Magdalene College’s Old Library holds rare 17th-century Frankfurt Book Fair catalogues, including an ad for Shakespeare’s First Folio, highlighting the international interest in his work.
Margaret Cavendish
Margaret Cavendish, Duchess of Newcastle, authored works on science and natural philosophy. Magdalene College holds several of her books, which reflect her bold challenge to gender norms in publishing.
Ferrar Diaries
In 1821, King George VI visited Ireland, symbolising hopes for improved Anglo-Irish relations. Michael Ferrar's diaries offer a critical yet detailed account of the royal visit and public reaction.
Game of Goose
This 17th-century Royal Game of the Goose from the Pepys Library is the earliest known English version of the game and is still available today as a high-quality print.