The Commonplace Book

Woodcuts and pictures from other people’s books, copied out with a caption apiece, as early modern readers kept commonplace books. First gathered on Twitter: #WoodcutWednesday, #NotALion and the manuscripts.

Lampedo was annoyed when Marpesia wouldn't stop performing "I Whip My Hair Back and Forth."

Niobe ponders whether or not “this shit is worth crying over.”

Jason explains to Medea that he had something else in mind when he asked for a little head.

When counting the wounds of Christ, Sibilla found a sixth "wound." The tongue in Jesus' ear.

It’s a complex family affair, y’all!

No joke necessary. Coriolanus is just that badass.

Almalthea and the King discuss the artist's unnecessary labeling of "Libri."

Thirteenth century

After years of patiently trying, Jimmy finally pooped the perfect egg.

From: Arthurian Romances
Image from: Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library, MS 229

Thirteenth century

Tell me about the humans, George.

From: Arthurian Romances
Image from: Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library, MS 229

Thirteenth century

That moment when you mistakenly believe you're at a high five party. #LeftHimHanging

From: Arthurian Romances
Image from: Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library, MS 229

Thirteenth century

One does not simply find the Grail.

From: Arthurian Romances
Image from: Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library, MS 229

Thirteenth century

Goe home, detayle. Thou art drunke.

From: Arthurian Romances
Image from: Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library, MS 229

Thirteenth century

The Medieval Karate Kid.

From: Arthurian Romances
Image from: Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library, MS 229

Is this the city at which were launched a thousand ships?

Early modern Abercrombie had some disturbing photos. The models still looked disinterested though.

Olympias was unable to cheer anyone with her rendition of "Always Look on the Bright Side of Life."

See we just pull up our pants and Do the Roc-away. Now lean back, lean back, lean back, lean back.

The gossips spent all day discussing Venus’ #BreakTheInternet spread.

Apparently, Portia did not swallow hot coals. She died by swallowing shuttlecocks.

Everyone was fed up with Clive's constant flashing of "Illuminati signs" from the bench.

The “Got Milk?” campaign got a little weird.

Try as she might, Mary was unable to soften her executioners with her appeal to the "West side."

Nero loved his birthday pancakes.

Thirteenth century

#RaiseTheRoof

From: Arthurian Romances
Image from: Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library, MS 229