Nicephorus Blemmydes’ Διήγησις μερική – Preparing a New Critical Edition

My research focuses on the two-volume autobiography of the 13th-century Byzantine scholar, theologian, and cleric Nicephorus Blemmydes. Despite being one of the most important figures of the intellectual life of his time, a significant portion of his work remains unpublished, while the parts that have already been edited have received disproportionately little scholarly attention. My doctoral project aims to produce a new critical edition of his “Partial account” (Διήγησις μερική), this highly significant and unique yet unjustly overlooked text. In my presentation, I will outline the initial steps of my work, highlight key innovations that my edition will contribute to previous scholarly efforts, and discuss the progress I have made in analysing the manuscripts. My approach follows the stratigraphic examination methodology developed and theorized by Filippo Ronconi, which regards the codices as complex cultural objects. Since my dissertation will also include a detailed commentary on the text, I will address the methodological aspects of this commentary as well.