PREFACE.

In his article on Roger Bacon in the Dictionary of National Biography, Professor Adamson says, "It is much to be desired that a more thorough and detailed study of the known manuscripts and a more extensive search for others which doubtless exist should be undertaken. Some portions are in a condition suitable for publication and it is well-nigh an obligation resting on English scholars to continue the good work begun by the late Professor Brewer. Bacon’s works possess much historical value, for his vigorous thinking and pronounced scientific inclinations are not to be regarded as abnormal and isolated phenomena. He represents one current of thought and work in the middle ages which must have run strongly though obscurely, and without a thorough comprehension of his position our conceptions of an important century are incomplete and erroneous."

But this interest in the serious work of Friar Roger Bacon is of comparatively modern date. His Greater Work original: "Opus Majus" was not printed until 1733, and of the fifty works enumerated by Little in The Grey Friars in Oxford not more than eight seem to have been printed. The works of Émile Charles, Brewer and Bridges are all of the latter half of the nineteenth century.

As is well known a certain portion of the Greater Work original: "Opus Majus", of the Lesser Work original: "Opus Minus", of the Third Work original: "Opus Tertium" and of the Compendium of Study original: "Compendium Studii", is devoted to the subject of “Grammar” and contains