Abstract

The paper discusses for the first time a collection of vernacular translations of classical and medieval Latin texts, composed and compiled by the Mantuan notary Vivaldo Belcalzer probably by 1299. The essay provides the essential elements which ground Belcalzer's authorship and the dating of the collection to the 13th century, even though the most complete manuscript (Budapest, Eötvös Loránd University Library, Cod. Ital. 3) appears to have been copied in a Venetian context at the end of the 14th century or at the beginning of the 15th century. Finally it is here edited and commented the final section, in which the translator explains the aim and the meaning of his work.