Even though all thirteenth century encyclopaedists used a common corpus of sources, each of them had a precise and personal way to choose, “tailorize” and arrange the contents taken from these auctoritates. These peculiar and custom modi scribendi reflect accurately the different formae mentis and purposes behind the encyclopaedic texts, while also permitting the compiler (who collects authoritative materials of others) to become an author (who in turn becomes authoritative). Through the analysis of the structure, contents and sources of De lapidibus pretiosis—the fourteenth book of the widespread encyclopedia Liber the natura rerum (approximately 1242/1247-1260)—, this essay will show the exclusive « encyclopaedic style » and goals of its author, the Flemish Dominican friar Thomas of Cantimpré (1201-1270/1271). - [Abstract]

Language: French

DOI: 10.4000/medievales.8121