On the Clergy and Their Vestments: A New Translation of Books 2-3 of the Rationale divinorum officiorum

The Rationale divinorum officiorum of French bishop William Durand of Mende (c. 1230-96) remains one of the most influential works on the medieval understanding of the worship ceremonies of the Latin Church.   Divided into eight lengthy books, Durand's treatise covers a broad range of topics associated with the liturgies of the medieval Church, from the symbolism of church art and architecture to the structure of the Church's calendar.

Thibodeau's new translation offers a modern English rendering of portions of this classic work.  Book two, on the clergy and their ordination rites, has never been available in English translation.  Book three, on the vestments of the clergy, has not been translated into English in over a century.   A detailed historical introduction and copious notes accompany Thibodeau's translation.  Given the widespread revival of interest in liturgical history, this volume will be required reading for historians and theologians alike.