The Paston Letters A.D. 1422-1509

The Paston Letters by James Gairdner is a comprehensive collection of letters written during the reigns of Henry VI Edward IV and Richard III. The book provides a glimpse into the lives of the Paston family in Norfolk offering insights into their relationships social status and historical events of the time. The letters were first published by Sir John Fenn in the late 18th century and their accuracy and editorial care have been a subject of scrutiny and comparison with the original manuscripts. The discovery of missing originals in later years has shed light on Fenn's editing process and accuracy. The current edition aims to present the letters in a more organized and complete manner following Fenn's text where corrections are not needed and providing abstracts for lengthy or less significant letters. The book also discusses the locations of the original manuscripts including those at Orwell Park and the British Museum offering a valuable resource for scholars and readers interested in medieval history and epistolary literature.