legeris

Legeris refers to a type of manuscript or codex that is typically small in size, often fitting comfortably in the hand. The term originates from the Latin word "legere," meaning "to read." These smaller books were popular in medieval and early modern periods for personal use, travel, and as devotional items. They were distinct from larger, more formal liturgical books or scholarly tomes, which were usually kept in libraries or churches.

The content of legeris could vary widely, encompassing religious texts such as prayer books, Psalters, or Books of Hours, as well as secular works like poetry, romances, or collections of sayings. Their portable nature made them ideal for private study and devotion, allowing individuals to engage with texts outside of communal or institutional settings. The production of legeris often involved skilled scribes and illuminators, and while generally smaller, they could still be elaborately decorated. The historical study of legeris provides insights into literacy, personal piety, and the dissemination of knowledge among a wider population. The evolution of bookbinding and printing technologies also influenced the size and production of these smaller manuscripts.