Transcriptions

Over the course of our module we have transcribed over 180 pages of Margaret Baker's 1675 recipe book V.a.619. Some of our favourites include the following:

Folio 51 verso, folio 52 recto, transcribed by Abbie Burnett.

Folio 38 verso, folio 39 recto, transcribed by Tracey Cornish.

This transcription shows the diversity of Margaret Baker's recipes. On this double page there are recipes for redness and watering eyes, how to get stains out of linen, to stew a rack of mutton, a sauce for a capon or shoulder of mutton and a remedy for a pain in the back.

Folio 67 verso, Folio 68 recto, transcribed by Karen Bowman

The reason I chose to feature this particular transcription is that entry no.73 appears to be a contradiction in terms. The recipe contains the word 'precious' in the title possibly alluding to its effectiveness and so is of great value to Baker and anyone who may use it. Yet the method of making the 'medisen' is in stark contrast to the romance of the title appearing superstitious and barbaric. It recommends taking a young dog, 'that sucketh' therefore not yet weened from its mother, and drowning him in water 'till he be deade' before continuing to process its body in order to make the medicine that will cure the ache. For further information see Animals by Tracey Cornish.

Folio 101 verso, Folio 102 recto, transcribed by Meriel Morgan

This is the recipe that initially triggered my interest in the supernatural occurrences in Baker's recipes. The great Elfe conundrum became really puzzling to me. This double page spread also shows the diversity in Baker's recipes - she jumps from a recipe for tripe peys (pies) to a medical recipe to cure convulsive fits in young children. Read more about this on my page on the supernatural.

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