SHORTER NOTICES
Robert Grosseteste. Edited by D. A. Callus (0.U.P., 42s.)
THEOLOGIAN and preacher, translator and scientist, religious reformer and administrator, there were few aspects of thirteenth-century intellectual and spiritual life which were not affected by Robert Cirosseteste, Bishop of Lincoln, the seventh centenary of whose death is commemorated by this book of essays. Many of these studies are likely to repel all but the narrowest of specialists in medimval thought and learning. But they maintain a high .standard of scholarship and will form a valuable basis for the definitive biography which still remains to be written.
In many ways Robert (irosseteste is a sym- pathetic figure to the twentieth century, with its scientific and reformist outlook. He was 'the founder ol the Oxford school, whose major achievement was its contribution to the modern conception of experimental method.' Furthermore he did his utmost to divert the attention of the medimval church to preaching and the cure of souls In consequence he wel- comed the Friars and opposed anyone, whether Pope or King, who tried to job in unworthy eccles;astics.
Though an awkward, obstinate man, his defiance of vested interests and tradition in pursuit of his objectives must command respect. Oxford University has reason to be proud of her first Chancellor.
LAWRENCE STONE
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