Hesburgh Libraries

Two newly discovered fragments of Adenet le Roi’s Berte as grans piès (Bertha of the Big Foot) attest to the medieval French poem’s circulation in the Northeast. The manuscript leaves were formerly used in bookbinding and reveal a completely new attestation to this popular chanson de geste that focuses on Charlemagne’s mother, Berte. 

This exhibit is curated by David T. Gura, Ph.D., Curator, Ancient and Medieval Manuscripts, Concurrent Professor of Classics and the Medieval Institute. This and other exhibits within the Hesburgh Libraries are generously supported by the McBrien Special Collections Endowment.

All exhibits are free and open to the public during business hours.