This is Love

The Manuscript

Nov 20, 2024
Lisa Fagan Davis, a Medievalist and manuscript expert, dives into the captivating enigma of the Voynich manuscript. She discusses its mysterious origins and the enduring challenges of deciphering its unique language. Davis shares insights on the manuscript’s intriguing history, revealing it may reflect shared knowledge rather than a single author’s work. She emphasizes the significance of women’s contributions to its medicinal themes and highlights the artistic allure that keeps scholars fascinated by its secrets.
Ask episode
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
ANECDOTE

First Encounter

  • Lisa Fagan Davis first encountered the Voynich Manuscript during her PhD studies at Yale.
  • She was immediately captivated by its mysterious aura and bizarre, inexplicable nature.
INSIGHT

Unique Characteristics

  • The Voynich Manuscript is handwritten and illustrated with unique pictures of plants, star charts, and bathing women.
  • Its lettering system is entirely unique, adding to its mystery.
ANECDOTE

Debunked Theory

  • A theory suggested the manuscript was written by Roger Bacon using complex codes and microscopic pen strokes.
  • This theory was later debunked by a medievalist.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Get the app